Three New Compact Track Loaders added to Cat Range

27/01/2009

Three models of compact track loaders, the 279C, 289C and 299C, are the newest additions to the Caterpillar^® line of rubber-track loaders. The new loaders feature durable, steel embedded track and steel undercarriage components for maximum life in aggressive applications and deliver solid traction and reduced wear on sites with sticky, rocky soils.

The new compact machines combine a freshly engineered suspension-type undercarriage, designed and built by Caterpillar, with the chassis of their multi terrain loader counterparts, the 277C, 287C and 297C. The fully suspended undercarriage employs four independent torsion axles for a superior ride and excellent bucket load retention. Class leading track-on-ground of almost 1767 mm provides good flotation and traction, low ground pressure and long track life.

All three models feature two-speed drive systems for fast movement around large sites while the Caterpillar exclusive drive motor seal guards extend the lives of seals and final drives.  The electrohydraulic joystick control of the drive motors delivers straight-line tracking, and electronic torque management optimises productivity.

The new compact track loaders complement the Caterpillar multi terrain loaders, which feature very low ground pressure for high flotation and little ground disturbance. Multi terrain loaders also offer the best ride and highest travel speeds of all compact tracked machines. Now you can choose the machine that best suits your primary applications.

Robust new undercarriage
At the heart of the Caterpillar compact track loader design is a robust new undercarriage. 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.

Power train and hydraulics
Powering the three new loaders is the Cat C3.4T diesel engine, an inline, four-cylinder, turbocharged model with a 3.3 litre displacement. The engine is designed with premium Caterpillar features, including high-load-carrying bearings, induction-hardened cylinder liners, forged-steel/super-finished crankshaft, positive-displacement gear-pump lubrication system and gear-driven coolant pump.

The engine powers a two-speed hydrostatic drive system, which provides a travel speed of 13.6 kilometres per hour in second range—and which is standard equipment for the new 279C, 289C and 299C models. The drive system is engineered to electronically balance torque and speed delivered to the tracks, a feature designed to promote optimum performance and fuel efficiency in any application, whether aggressively digging in a sticky clay bank, loading trucks or doing drawbar work. To complement the efficient design of the drive system, the drive motors incorporate Caterpillar’s exclusive seal guard, which helps protect the motors from damage.

Electronic control of the drive system allows continual fine-tuning of the engine, drive pumps and drive motors to deliver controlled tractive effort, but always in combination with ample hydraulic power for the implement (lift and tilt) and auxiliary circuits.  

The Advanced Machine Information and Control System allows the operator to select the level of loader-arm and bucket responsiveness, while also providing 10 work-speed selections.

Operator/technician amenities
To enhance controllability and ease of operation, the new models are equipped with a foot throttle, which allows the operator to adjust engine speed to suit the application, while also reducing sound levels and conserving fuel. This feature complements the independently adjustable joystick controllers, which are console-mounted to provide ample forearm support. The operator station is equipped with a suspension seat.

The enclosed ROPS cabin is sealed, pressurised and heated, with ventilation air filtered to eliminate dust. An air-ride seat and air-conditioning further enhance the operator environment. The design positions the seat and surrounding enclosure to enhance visibility, and a quick-release door and safety interlock system prevent accidental machine movement.  Lift-arm safety braces are designed for easy use, and routine-maintenance features include a rear door that swings open 90 degrees to provide ready access to service points. Also, the cab tilts up for wide-open access to drive-system and hydraulic components.

For more information about the new Caterpillar 279C, 289C and 299C compact track loaders, contact your local branch on 131 228.

Basic Specifications for 279C, 289C and 299C Compact Track Loaders