08-17-2025, 02:21 PM
Machine History and Introduction
The Caterpillar 287B is a tracked skid steer loader produced between 2004 and 2007. It uses the reliable ASV undercarriage featuring 18-inch wide rubber tracks, giving the machine excellent ground contact and low ground pressure. This equipment is widely regarded for its balance of power, maneuverability, and durability, primarily used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural applications where tough terrain and versatility are required.
Key Specifications
The vertical lift design of the 287B facilitates loading and dumping materials at heights unreachable by radial lift loaders, making it suitable for tasks involving trucks or hoppers. The undercarriage provides enhanced traction and stability, while the engine’s turbocharged setup delivers consistent power under varying workloads.
The low ground pressure makes the machine especially suited for soft or sensitive surfaces where minimal soil compaction is essential. Its hydraulic system offers selectable flow rates to balance attachment speed and torque for different jobs.
Durability and Maintenance
The 287B benefits from Caterpillar’s heritage of rugged construction equipment, known for long service life when properly maintained. Service points are accessible, and routine maintenance such as track tensioning, hydraulic filter changes, and engine servicing are straightforward for experienced operators and technicians.
Operator Experience
Users praise the 287B for its responsive controls and comfortable cab, which offer good visibility and ergonomic layouts. Its compact size yet solid power allows for efficient operation in tight or uneven terrain, making it a versatile choice across various industries.
Glossary
The Caterpillar 287B skid steer loader stands out as a reliable, versatile machine delivering a strong balance of power, lifting capability, and maneuverability. Its advanced undercarriage system, durable engine, and adaptable hydraulic flow options allow it to meet diverse job demands efficiently. Well-maintained units provide operators with dependable performance and comfort, sustaining Caterpillar’s reputation for quality in the skid steer loader market segment.
The Caterpillar 287B is a tracked skid steer loader produced between 2004 and 2007. It uses the reliable ASV undercarriage featuring 18-inch wide rubber tracks, giving the machine excellent ground contact and low ground pressure. This equipment is widely regarded for its balance of power, maneuverability, and durability, primarily used in construction, landscaping, and agricultural applications where tough terrain and versatility are required.
Key Specifications
- Engine: Caterpillar 3044C-DIT turbocharged diesel
- Horsepower: 76 to 82 hp (varies with model configurations)
- Operating Weight: Approximately 10,275 lbs (4,660 kg)
- Tipping Load: About 7,200 lbs (3,265 kg)
- Rated Operating Capacity (50% tipping load): 3,600 lbs (1,633 kg)
- Ground Pressure: Approximately 3.8 psi (26.2 kPa)
- Hydraulic Flow: Low flow option at 22 gallons per minute @ 3,335 psi; high flow option at 33 gallons per minute @ 4,060 psi
- Travel Speed: Up to 7 mph (11.3 km/h)
- Dimensions: Width over tracks around 6.44 ft (1.96 m); height to top of cab approximately 6.97 ft (2.12 m)
The vertical lift design of the 287B facilitates loading and dumping materials at heights unreachable by radial lift loaders, making it suitable for tasks involving trucks or hoppers. The undercarriage provides enhanced traction and stability, while the engine’s turbocharged setup delivers consistent power under varying workloads.
The low ground pressure makes the machine especially suited for soft or sensitive surfaces where minimal soil compaction is essential. Its hydraulic system offers selectable flow rates to balance attachment speed and torque for different jobs.
Durability and Maintenance
The 287B benefits from Caterpillar’s heritage of rugged construction equipment, known for long service life when properly maintained. Service points are accessible, and routine maintenance such as track tensioning, hydraulic filter changes, and engine servicing are straightforward for experienced operators and technicians.
Operator Experience
Users praise the 287B for its responsive controls and comfortable cab, which offer good visibility and ergonomic layouts. Its compact size yet solid power allows for efficient operation in tight or uneven terrain, making it a versatile choice across various industries.
Glossary
- Tipping Load: The weight at which the machine becomes unstable and tips, important for safety calculations.
- Operating Capacity: The safe load the machine can carry, usually calculated at 50% of tipping load.
- Vertical Lift Design: A loader arm design allowing straight vertical lifting paths for higher reach.
- Ground Pressure: Pressure exerted by the machine on the ground, relevant for soil preservation and traction.
- Hydraulic Flow Rate: The volume of hydraulic fluid delivered per minute, determining attachment performance.
The Caterpillar 287B skid steer loader stands out as a reliable, versatile machine delivering a strong balance of power, lifting capability, and maneuverability. Its advanced undercarriage system, durable engine, and adaptable hydraulic flow options allow it to meet diverse job demands efficiently. Well-maintained units provide operators with dependable performance and comfort, sustaining Caterpillar’s reputation for quality in the skid steer loader market segment.
