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Machine Introduction and History
The Caterpillar 246C, part of the 200 Series skid-steer loader lineup, is a compact, versatile construction and material-handling machine renowned for its robust build and dependable performance. Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, is a global leader in heavy machinery known for its innovations in construction equipment. The 246C was designed to deliver increased power and enhanced hydraulics compared to earlier models, positioning itself as a capable tool for landscaping, construction, agriculture, and industrial applications.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The 246C is powered by a Caterpillar C3.4 DIT (Direct Injection Turbocharged) diesel engine, delivering around 74 to 75 horsepower at 2,500 RPM. This engine balances power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for use in diverse environments. The machine weighs approximately 7,480 pounds, enabling a robust lifting capacity while remaining relatively agile.
Operating speeds include a top travel speed of about 12 miles per hour in its two-speed drive mode, enhancing efficiency for moving around job sites.
Hydraulic System and Capacities
A key highlight of the 246C is its advanced hydraulic system, which offers two flow options: standard flow at 22 gallons per minute (GPM) supporting 42 hydraulic horsepower, and high-flow XPS at 33 GPM delivering 78.2 hydraulic horsepower. With a hydraulic system pressure near 3,335 PSI in standard flow and up to 4,061 PSI in high flow, the 246C can operate demanding hydraulic attachments such as augers, hydraulic breakers, and grapples.
Lift capacities include approximately 1,505 pounds at 35% tipping load and up to 2,150 pounds at 50% tipping load, making it well-suited for moderate lifting and digging tasks.
Dimensions and Maneuverability
The machine measures about 66 inches wide and nearly 12 feet long with the bucket attached. It offers a wheelbase length around 49 inches and a ground clearance near 8.8 inches, providing good balance between size and obstacle clearance.
The cab height stands near 6.8 feet, offering operators adequate visibility and comfort within a compact footprint.
Operator Comfort and Safety
The cab of the 246C includes features like ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure), FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) to meet safety standards, and ergonomically designed controls to reduce operator fatigue. Optional two-speed drive enhances travel efficiency and control. Auxiliary hydraulics are standard for attachment versatility.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Caterpillar designed the 246C to simplify routine maintenance with accessible service points. Engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and filters are easy to access and replace. The machine also benefits from Caterpillar’s global service network providing parts and technical support.
Use Case and Industry Application
The 246C excels in construction site tasks such as material handling, site cleanup, excavation preparation, and landscaping. Its balance of power, size, and hydraulic capability allows it to operate attachments like pallet forks, buckets, snow blades, and forestry mulchers efficiently. Contractors and equipment rental companies widely use the 246C due to its reliability and performance longevity.
Terminology Explanation
A landscaping business owner shared how the 246C transformed his operation, replacing aging loaders with a machine that could swiftly switch between digging trenches, moving heavy bark mulch, and powering attachments for grading. Over two years of daily use in mixed terrain, the 246C demanded minimal repairs and consistently supported fast job completion. Its hydraulic systems allowed attachment changes seamlessly, supporting efficiency on changing job requirements.
Recommendations for Operators
The Caterpillar 246C, part of the 200 Series skid-steer loader lineup, is a compact, versatile construction and material-handling machine renowned for its robust build and dependable performance. Caterpillar Inc., founded in 1925, is a global leader in heavy machinery known for its innovations in construction equipment. The 246C was designed to deliver increased power and enhanced hydraulics compared to earlier models, positioning itself as a capable tool for landscaping, construction, agriculture, and industrial applications.
Engine and Performance Specifications
The 246C is powered by a Caterpillar C3.4 DIT (Direct Injection Turbocharged) diesel engine, delivering around 74 to 75 horsepower at 2,500 RPM. This engine balances power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for use in diverse environments. The machine weighs approximately 7,480 pounds, enabling a robust lifting capacity while remaining relatively agile.
Operating speeds include a top travel speed of about 12 miles per hour in its two-speed drive mode, enhancing efficiency for moving around job sites.
Hydraulic System and Capacities
A key highlight of the 246C is its advanced hydraulic system, which offers two flow options: standard flow at 22 gallons per minute (GPM) supporting 42 hydraulic horsepower, and high-flow XPS at 33 GPM delivering 78.2 hydraulic horsepower. With a hydraulic system pressure near 3,335 PSI in standard flow and up to 4,061 PSI in high flow, the 246C can operate demanding hydraulic attachments such as augers, hydraulic breakers, and grapples.
Lift capacities include approximately 1,505 pounds at 35% tipping load and up to 2,150 pounds at 50% tipping load, making it well-suited for moderate lifting and digging tasks.
Dimensions and Maneuverability
The machine measures about 66 inches wide and nearly 12 feet long with the bucket attached. It offers a wheelbase length around 49 inches and a ground clearance near 8.8 inches, providing good balance between size and obstacle clearance.
The cab height stands near 6.8 feet, offering operators adequate visibility and comfort within a compact footprint.
Operator Comfort and Safety
The cab of the 246C includes features like ROPS (Roll Over Protective Structure), FOPS (Falling Object Protective Structure) to meet safety standards, and ergonomically designed controls to reduce operator fatigue. Optional two-speed drive enhances travel efficiency and control. Auxiliary hydraulics are standard for attachment versatility.
Maintenance and Serviceability
Caterpillar designed the 246C to simplify routine maintenance with accessible service points. Engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and filters are easy to access and replace. The machine also benefits from Caterpillar’s global service network providing parts and technical support.
Use Case and Industry Application
The 246C excels in construction site tasks such as material handling, site cleanup, excavation preparation, and landscaping. Its balance of power, size, and hydraulic capability allows it to operate attachments like pallet forks, buckets, snow blades, and forestry mulchers efficiently. Contractors and equipment rental companies widely use the 246C due to its reliability and performance longevity.
Terminology Explanation
- DIT (Direct Injection Turbocharged): An engine fuel delivery system which improves fuel efficiency and power output.
- Hydraulic Horsepower: Power available at hydraulic system output used to drive attachments.
- ROPS/FOPS: Safety structures protecting operators from rollovers and falling objects, meeting regulatory standards.
- Two-speed drive: Transmission option allowing the operator to switch between lower speed for precision and higher speed for rapid travel.
- Tipping Load: The maximum weight load carried at a certain percentage of machine stability before tipping risk.
A landscaping business owner shared how the 246C transformed his operation, replacing aging loaders with a machine that could swiftly switch between digging trenches, moving heavy bark mulch, and powering attachments for grading. Over two years of daily use in mixed terrain, the 246C demanded minimal repairs and consistently supported fast job completion. Its hydraulic systems allowed attachment changes seamlessly, supporting efficiency on changing job requirements.
Recommendations for Operators
- Regularly monitor hydraulic fluid levels and filter conditions to maintain attachment performance.
- Conduct frequent safety checks of ROPS and FOPS components to ensure operator protection.
- Utilize two-speed drive for efficient site travel but revert to low speed for delicate operations.
- Schedule maintenance per manufacturer guidelines to extend engine and hydraulic system life.
- Opt for genuine Caterpillar parts for repairs to ensure reliability and operational safety.
