Cat launches three rubber tracked loaders

Caterpillar has added three compact rubber tracked loaders to its loader range. The 279C (pictured), 289C and 299C models use a newly designed suspension-type undercarriage combined with the existing chassis found on the multi-terrain 277C, 287C and 297C loaders. Caterpillar said the new loaders complement the very low ground pressure multi terrain models.

The fully suspended undercarriage has four independent torsion axles "for a superior ride and excellent bucket load retention", said Cat, "Class leading track-on-ground of almost 70 inches (1767 mm) provides good flotation and traction, low ground pressure and long track life."

Caterpillar said the new undercarriage was at the heart of the new loader design; "It uses an external-type sprocket, steel track rollers and idlers, conventional spring-type (grease-adjusted) recoil mechanism and rubber tracks that incorporate the reinforcing strength of steel-both as steel cords that run longitudinally through the tracks and as steel inserts at the sprocket-engagement points. The design emphasizes durability and aggressive traction, suiting it particularly well for applications in which maintenance, operator technique and underfoot conditions might present challenges."

The new models have rated operating capacities of 3200, 3850 and 4150 lb (1451, 1746 and 1882 kg), at 50% of tipping load, and weigh, respectively, 9892 lb (4487 kg), 10365 lb (4702 kg) and 10730 lb (4867 kg).

The loaders are powered by Cat C3.4T four-cylinder diesel engines with 82 hp (61 kW) for the 279C and 289C, and 90 hp (67 kW) for the 299C. The lift-arm-path design is radial for the 279C and vertical for the 289C and 299C.

Cat said that all three models feature two-speed drive systems, with a maximum speed of 8.5 miles per hour, for fast movement around large sites. The loaders have a mechanical quick-coupler as standard and a hydraulically controlled coupler as an option.