Caterpillar unveiled 16 new Cat D3 Series skid-steer loader (SSL) and compact track loader (CTL) models.
These new machines advance the D and D2 Series’ reputation for quality, comfort and performance and deliver improvements in operator experience and track loader stability, according to the company.
Entering and exiting the new D3 Series loaders equipped with an enclosed cab is now easier due to a wider opening cab door. Additionally, the distance between joystick pods has increased by 3 inches. Changes to the undercarriage frame and torsion axles reduce machine pitching and rocking, while still offering ride comfort.
All Cat D3 Series CTLs feature standard two-speed travel to improve performance at the job site. These machines are geared to deliver high-torque digging performance as well as high top-end speed for travel. The Cat 279D3 and 289D3 loaders boast an 8.4 mph top-end ground speed, a 20 percent increase over their D Series counterparts. The Cat 239D3 and 249D3 models are now built with two-speed transmission as standard versus the previous single speed, increasing travel speed by 9 percent and aligning these models with the rest of the two-speed equipped CTL model range.
The D3 Series Cat SSL and CTL models deliver Smart Technology that ushers in a higher level of integration between the machine and new Smart Attachments. This attachment technology will allow the D3 Series Cat SSL and CTL models to automatically recognize Smart Attachments and convert machine controls to align with the operational and informational needs of that attachment.
Cat SSLs and CTLs also offer control features that include return-to-dig and work tool positioner to assist operators with repetitive tasks like grading, digging and loading. These items are now bundled together with the dual-direction self-level feature.
In conjunction with the D3 Series introduction, the previous XHP performance model identifier used with the 272 and 299 models has been replaced with XE badge. The 272D3 XE and 299D3 XE models represent the highest performance and most advanced technology available to customers in the Cat SSL and CTL line.
Also included in the D3 series CTL family is the new purpose-built Cat 299D3 XE Land Management CTL. The 299D3 XE Land Management delivers high performance in vegetation-management applications, such as mulching, brush cutting, vegetation control and mowing. Ensuring optimum performance when powering high-production hydromechanical attachments like mulching heads, this machine boasts a turbocharged 110 gross hp Cat C3.8 engine that combines with a 40 gpm high-flow/high-pressure auxiliary hydraulic system, producing a hydraulic horsepower rating of 94 hp.
To provide longer intervals of uninterrupted work, the 299D3 XE Land Management has a 58.1-gallon fuel capacity, which is 80 percent larger than the tank on standard 299D3 XE model and is sized to provide an estimated run time of 11 to 12 hours. Its one-piece sealed and pressurized cab keeps the operator’s environment clean and quiet, said the company.
Additional seals, covers and other special parts are standard for the 299D3 XE Land Management machine to restrict debris and other materials from entering the engine compartment and lower frame, while large removable panels provide easy access to aid in routine cleaning. A turbine-type precleaner ejects dust, dirt and debris from engine-intake airflow before it reaches the filter, extending air-filter service life.
The 299D3 XE Land Management model also comes factory-equipped with components that provide guarding to protect front and rear LED work lights, work-tool coupler area, work-tool electrical harness connections and auxiliary-hydraulic quick-disconnect fittings from impact and debris that are often hazards in land-clearing applications.
The cooling system’s hydraulically driven fan operates only when required to save fuel, while the reversing fan feature clears intake screens of debris, so the system runs cooler when operating in high ambient temperature applications.
