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The Caterpillar 262D is a versatile and powerful skid steer loader designed primarily for construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other material handling applications. Part of Cat’s D Series, it is renowned for its robust vertical lift design, high performance, operator comfort, and advanced technology integration.
Engine and Powertrain
A landscaping contractor upgraded his older skid steer to a 262D and noted the difference immediately. The increased hydraulic flow enabled seamless operation of heavy-duty brush cutters and stump grinders without lag. The self-leveling system significantly improved material dumping accuracy into trucks, saving time and reducing spillage. Operator comfort improvements allowed longer workdays with less fatigue.
Summary
The Caterpillar 262D skid steer loader blends powerful performance, advanced hydraulics, and operator-centric features into a compact and versatile package tailored for modern jobsite demands. Its vertical lift design, robust engine, and intelligent hydraulic systems enable efficient material handling with enhanced comfort and precision. Regular maintenance and use of matched Cat tools maximize the machine’s productivity and service life, making the 262D a smart investment across diverse industries.
Engine and Powertrain
- Powered by a Caterpillar C3.3B turbocharged diesel engine
- Gross power rating of 74.3 horsepower (55.4 kW) for strong, sustained performance
- Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage IIIB emissions standards, balancing power with environmental compliance
- Electronic Torque Management system ensures maximum performance and efficient power delivery
- Available with optional two-speed travel to improve transport speed while enhancing control at job sites
- Equipped with a high-flow XPS hydraulic system option producing up to 32 gallons per minute of hydraulic flow at 4,061 psi pressure, enabling operation of demanding attachments requiring superior hydraulic power
- Standard hydraulic system provides 18 gallons per minute of flow at 3,336 psi, adequate for most general applications
- Features Cat’s “Intelligent Leveling” (ILEV) system, which provides dual direction electronic self-leveling of the lift arms, auto work tool return-to-dig, and work tool positioner functions for enhanced productivity and precise material placement
- Rated operating capacity (ROC): up to 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg), making it suitable for a wide range of workloads
- Operating weight: approximately 8,011 lbs (3,634 kg), providing stability and power balance
- Breakout force of tilt cylinders is 7,355 lbs (3,336 kg), illustrating strong digging and material handling capability
- Maximum travel speed around 11 mph (17.7 km/h) with two-speed travel option
- Industry-leading sealed and pressurized cab provides a quieter, cleaner workspace with excellent visibility
- Available high-back heated air-ride seat with seat-mounted adjustable joystick controls aids operator comfort and reduces fatigue during extended shifts
- Ground-level serviceability reduces downtime, allowing easy access to daily maintenance points
- Optional Ride Control system dampens loader arm bounce over rough terrain, improving operator comfort and load retention
- Advanced multi-language digital display allows operators to customize settings like implement response, speed, and creep control
- Wide range of Cat work tools are performance-matched to the 262D for maximum versatility on the job site
- Vertical Lift Design: Lift linkage that offers greater reach and height, allowing easier loading of trucks and stockpiles.
- Electronic Torque Management: A powertrain control system optimizing engine torque for improved performance and fuel efficiency.
- Self-Leveling: An automated feature that keeps the attachment (bucket or forks) level throughout the lift cycle.
- Hydraulic Flow (GPM): Gallons per minute of hydraulic fluid flow, key to determining attachment power.
- Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): The maximum load weight the loader can carry at full tilt safely.
A landscaping contractor upgraded his older skid steer to a 262D and noted the difference immediately. The increased hydraulic flow enabled seamless operation of heavy-duty brush cutters and stump grinders without lag. The self-leveling system significantly improved material dumping accuracy into trucks, saving time and reducing spillage. Operator comfort improvements allowed longer workdays with less fatigue.
Summary
The Caterpillar 262D skid steer loader blends powerful performance, advanced hydraulics, and operator-centric features into a compact and versatile package tailored for modern jobsite demands. Its vertical lift design, robust engine, and intelligent hydraulic systems enable efficient material handling with enhanced comfort and precision. Regular maintenance and use of matched Cat tools maximize the machine’s productivity and service life, making the 262D a smart investment across diverse industries.
