Caterpillar has introduced the Cat 253 compact track loader, a machine aimed at grading and material handling that joins the manufacturer's 8,000- to 10,000-pound compact track loader class. The new model carries a 2,006-pound (910-kilogram) rated operating capacity and an operating weight of 9,343 pounds (4,238 kilograms), a combination Cat says supports easier transport between job sites.
The 253 builds on the Cat 259D3 foundation and combines a next-generation one-piece undercarriage with rigid frame-mounted axles. Four fully independent axles mount directly to the frame, a layout intended to support traction and stability when handling heavy loads and to enhance grading capability. New 15-inch (380-millimetre) general-duty C-Pattern tracks are designed to increase ground engagement and deliver strong grip in mud and other soft underfoot conditions. The redesigned one-piece track roller frame, similar to the unit used on the Cat 255, is meant to add stability and operator confidence.
Two cab layouts, two hydraulic packages
Buyers can choose between a canopy version and a sealed and pressurized cab. Hydraulic output is tied to that choice: canopy models come standard with 20-gallon-per-minute flow at 3,336 psi (76 litres per minute at 23,000 kPa), while cab models are equipped with high-flow hydraulics rated at 30 gpm at 3,336 psi (112 lpm at 23,000 kPa).
Inside, a high-back, heated air-ride seat with adjustable joystick pods is standard, and operators can switch joystick command patterns between ISO and H patterns to suit preference. A tilt-up, one-piece cab design provides quick access to under-cab components, while daily service and routine maintenance points are reachable from ground level. A two-speed transmission supports higher travel speeds, and a full-colour 5-inch (127-millimetre) LCD screen with soft-touch buttons handles operating control. Purpose-built aftermarket kits are offered to expand customization.
Automated grading and connected worksite features
Cat says its technology is intended to advance efficiency and safety at the job site, and to streamline equipment maintenance through connected worksites. A set of standard automated functions is included to assist grading work:
- Dual self-levelling automatically keeps attachments and material level when raising and lowering, for better stability and material retention.
- A return to dig/work tool positioner automates repetitive tasks to raise operating efficiency.
- Creep speed technology helps prevent overspeeding to achieve a smooth, precise finish in work such as cold planing or fine grading.
Power comes from an electronically controlled Cat 3.3B engine that Cat describes as delivering high horsepower and torque while meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/Stage V emissions standards.
Zach Waite, commercial director for Caterpillar Industry Solutions, said each model in the 8,000- to 10,000-pound compact track loader class features a unique undercarriage designed to optimize performance across a wide range of applications, and that adding the 253 gives customers another option for demanding work. He said combining the one-piece next-generation undercarriage with independent rigid, frame-mounted axles gives customers a system that helps deliver a stable platform when lifting and grading.
Waite added that the new 253 fits well between the Cat 249D3 and 255 models, and that the C-Pattern track design gives customers a productive all-around machine able to work on gravel, dirt, hard surfaces, turf, snow and unfinished terrain. He also noted that the 255 and 253 track types are interchangeable, giving customers more options.