Caterpillar 299D3 XE Compact Track Loader Overview

[MikePhua]

The Caterpillar 299D3 XE is a high-performance compact track loader designed for enhanced productivity, operator comfort, and versatility in a variety of demanding applications such as construction, landscaping, agriculture, and land management.
Engine and Power

• Powered by a Cat C3.8 turbocharged diesel engine generating approximately 106 horsepower (79 kW) net power.
  
• Meets U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final and EU Stage V emission standards, emphasizing environmental compliance.
  
• Peak torque of about 276 ft-lbf (374 N·m) at 1,500 rpm enables strong digging and lifting capabilities.
  

Hydraulic System

• Equipped with the XE hydraulic system delivering high flow and pressure, providing up to 40 gallons per minute (150 liters/min) at 4,000 psi (28,000 kPa).
  
• Supports power-hungry attachments such as mulchers, brush cutters, and snow blowers.
  
• Hydraulic power equivalent to 94 hp (70 kW) ensures efficient operation of hydraulically driven tools.
  

Performance and Capacities

• Rated Operating Capacity (35% tipping load): 3,560 lbs (1,620 kg)
  
• Rated Operating Capacity (50% tipping load): 5,085 lbs (2,315 kg)
  
• Rated Operating Capacity with optional counterweight: 5,360 lbs (2,431 kg)
  
• Tipping load: 10,170 lbs (4,625 kg)
  
• Breakout force on tilt cylinder: 7,270 lbs (3,298 kg)
  
• Breakout force on lift cylinder: 6,162 lbs (2,795 kg)
  

Dimensions

• Operating weight: approximately 11,756 lbs (5,333 kg)
  
• Ground contact area: 2,184 in² (1.41 m²) with standard 400 mm (15.7 in) tracks
  
• Ground pressure: about 5.4 psi (37.3 kPa)
  
• Overall length without bucket: 125.5 in (3,189 mm)
  
• Overall height to top of cab: 83.6 in (2,125 mm)
  
• Vehicle width with 400 mm tracks: 76 in (1,931 mm)
  
• Turning radius from center: approximately 58.1 in (1,476 mm)
  

Cab and Operator Comfort

• Offers an industry-leading sealed and pressurized cab option providing a cleaner, quieter environment.
  
• Features a high-back, heated, air-ride seat equipped with adjustable joystick controls mounted on the seat enhancing operator ergonomics.
  
• Advanced display panels provide real-time machine information, enhancing operator awareness and productivity.
  
• Equipped with a rearview camera to improve safety and visibility.
  

Additional Features

• Electronic Torque Management system delivers maximum power efficiency tailored to workload.
  
• Two-speed travel capability with electronic hand/foot throttle and deceleration pedal for precise machine control.
  
• Dual direction self-leveling enhances bucket control on uneven terrain.
  
• High ground clearance (245 mm or 9.6 in) facilitates operation over rough terrain.
  
• Meets ISO standards for ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) and FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure).
  

Applications

• Material handling and site preparation.
  
• Brush clearing and land management using high-flow hydraulic attachments.
  
• Truck loading and excavation tasks.
  
• Agricultural and landscaping projects requiring low ground pressure and maneuverability.
  

Terminology

• Tipping Load: The load point at which equipment stability is reached; critical for safe lifting operations.
  
• Breakout Force: The force exerted to dislodge or pry material, indicative of digging capability.
  
• XE Hydraulic System: Caterpillar’s elite hydraulic setup designed to optimize power and flow for attachments.
  
• Ground Pressure: Pressure exerted by the machine’s weight over the ground, influencing soil compaction and traction.
  
• ROPS/FOPS: Safety structures protecting operators from rollovers and falling debris.
  

Small Story
A contractor in northeast Texas valued the 299D3 XE for its balanced mix of power, precision, and comfort. The machine’s pressurized cab with heating and adjustable joystick controls made long shifts manageable, while the XE hydraulic system handled aggressive mulching attachments effectively on tough brush-clearing projects, improving job site efficiency tremendously.
Summary List

• Engine: Cat C3.8 turbo diesel, 106 hp net.
  
• Hydraulic flow: Up to 40 gpm at 4,000 psi.
  
• Rated operating capacity: Up to 5,360 lbs with counterweight.
  
• Operating weight: ~11,756 lbs.
  
• Ground pressure: Approximately 5.4 psi.
  
• Operator comfort: Sealed cab, heated air-ride seat, joystick controls.
  
• Safety: Meets ROPS and FOPS standards.
  
• Applications: Land management, construction, excavation, material handling.
  

The Caterpillar 299D3 XE offers a sophisticated, durable, and adaptable solution for operators seeking high performance and comfort in a compact track loader.