01-07-2026, 06:28 PM
Selecting the right skid steer for snow removal, attachment work, and year‑round utility is a decision that blends machine capability, hydraulic performance, resale value, and long‑term serviceability. The Cat 228, Cat 246, and John Deere 317 each represent different eras and engineering philosophies in the compact equipment market. Understanding their strengths, limitations, and real‑world behavior helps operators choose a machine that fits both immediate needs and future plans.
This article provides a detailed comparison of these three models, expands on their technical characteristics, explains hydraulic flow terminology, and includes real‑world stories from operators who have used these machines in demanding environments.
Background of the Machines
The Caterpillar 200‑series skid steers were introduced to compete directly with Bobcat and John Deere in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They quickly gained a reputation for:
Key historical notes
Terminology Notes
Cat 228 Overview
The Cat 228 is a compact, nimble skid steer with a reputation for maneuverability and simplicity. The model referenced in the retrieved content is a 2000 unit with 1,400 hours.
Strengths
High‑flow capability generally increases resale value, but being high‑flow only may reduce the buyer pool for operators who rely on standard‑flow attachments.
Cat 246 Overview
The Cat 246 is a larger, more powerful machine. The referenced model is a 2003 unit with 1,700 hours.
Strengths
Operators who upgraded from smaller Cat models consistently report that the 246 delivers noticeably more power and attachment performance.
John Deere 317 Overview
The JD 317 is the newest machine among the three, with only 100 hours on the referenced unit.
Strengths
High‑Flow vs Standard‑Flow Considerations
One of the biggest decision factors is whether the machine will run a snow blower. Snow blowers require:
A standard‑flow machine may operate a blower, but performance will be disappointing—especially in deep or wet snow.
Attachment Compatibility and Hydraulic Matching
A common concern is whether high‑flow machines can run standard‑flow attachments. The answer is generally yes, but with caveats:
Real‑World Stories
The Snow Contractor’s Dilemma
A contractor in Colorado purchased a Cat 228 for snow removal. While the machine handled light snow well, it struggled with wet, heavy drifts. After switching to a Cat 246, the difference was dramatic—the blower no longer bogged down, and clearing time was cut nearly in half.
The Attachment Compatibility Surprise
Another operator feared that high‑flow would limit attachment options. Instead, he discovered that most modern attachments were compatible, and high‑flow actually increased resale value.
Practical Recommendations
For buyers choosing between these three machines:
Conclusion
The Cat 228, Cat 246, and John Deere 317 each serve different operator needs. For snow blowing and high‑demand hydraulic attachments, the Cat 246 stands out due to its horsepower and hydraulic performance. The Cat 228 offers agility and affordability, while the JD 317 appeals to buyers seeking a newer, lightly used machine. Understanding hydraulic flow, attachment compatibility, and machine power helps ensure the right choice for long‑term productivity.
This article provides a detailed comparison of these three models, expands on their technical characteristics, explains hydraulic flow terminology, and includes real‑world stories from operators who have used these machines in demanding environments.
Background of the Machines
The Caterpillar 200‑series skid steers were introduced to compete directly with Bobcat and John Deere in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They quickly gained a reputation for:
- Strong hydraulic systems
- Excellent operator controls
- Durable frames
- Good dealer support
Key historical notes
- Cat 228: Early‑2000s model, known for high‑flow hydraulics and compact size.
- Cat 246: Larger frame, more horsepower, and better suited for heavy attachments.
- JD 317: Deere’s entry into the mid‑size skid steer market, emphasizing comfort and low hours.
Terminology Notes
- High‑Flow Hydraulics: A hydraulic system capable of delivering higher gallons per minute (GPM), required for power‑hungry attachments like snow blowers and cold planers.
- Standard‑Flow Hydraulics: Lower GPM output suitable for buckets, forks, sweepers, and most general attachments.
- Hydraulic Motor Matching: Adjusting an attachment’s hydraulic motor to match the machine’s flow and pressure.
- Quick‑Connect Couplers: Hydraulic connectors that allow fast attachment changes.
Cat 228 Overview
The Cat 228 is a compact, nimble skid steer with a reputation for maneuverability and simplicity. The model referenced in the retrieved content is a 2000 unit with 1,400 hours.
Strengths
- High‑flow hydraulics ideal for snow blowers
- Smaller frame for tight spaces
- Lower purchase cost
- Good for operators who value agility
- Lower horsepower (around 54 HP) compared to the 246
- High‑flow only configuration may limit compatibility with some standard‑flow attachments
- Older model, meaning more wear and fewer modern features
High‑flow capability generally increases resale value, but being high‑flow only may reduce the buyer pool for operators who rely on standard‑flow attachments.
Cat 246 Overview
The Cat 246 is a larger, more powerful machine. The referenced model is a 2003 unit with 1,700 hours.
Strengths
- Approximately 74 HP—significantly more than the 228
- Better suited for snow blowers, cold planers, and heavy hydraulic attachments
- Larger standard bucket width (66 inches)
- Stronger hydraulic conversion and better performance under load
- Improved service access compared to some competitors
- Larger size reduces maneuverability in tight areas
- Higher purchase price
- Slightly higher operating cost
Operators who upgraded from smaller Cat models consistently report that the 246 delivers noticeably more power and attachment performance.
John Deere 317 Overview
The JD 317 is the newest machine among the three, with only 100 hours on the referenced unit.
Strengths
- Very low hours
- Modern ergonomics
- Strong dealer network in many regions
- Good resale value
- Higher cost
- Less hydraulic power compared to Cat high‑flow machines
- Not the preferred choice for heavy snow‑blowing applications
High‑Flow vs Standard‑Flow Considerations
One of the biggest decision factors is whether the machine will run a snow blower. Snow blowers require:
- High GPM
- High PSI
- Consistent hydraulic output
A standard‑flow machine may operate a blower, but performance will be disappointing—especially in deep or wet snow.
Attachment Compatibility and Hydraulic Matching
A common concern is whether high‑flow machines can run standard‑flow attachments. The answer is generally yes, but with caveats:
- Some attachments (e.g., sweepers, augers) may not be rated for high pressure
- Many attachments can be modified with different hydraulic motors
- A hydraulic shop can tune line pressure and backpressure to match the machine
Real‑World Stories
The Snow Contractor’s Dilemma
A contractor in Colorado purchased a Cat 228 for snow removal. While the machine handled light snow well, it struggled with wet, heavy drifts. After switching to a Cat 246, the difference was dramatic—the blower no longer bogged down, and clearing time was cut nearly in half.
The Attachment Compatibility Surprise
Another operator feared that high‑flow would limit attachment options. Instead, he discovered that most modern attachments were compatible, and high‑flow actually increased resale value.
Practical Recommendations
For buyers choosing between these three machines:
- Choose Cat 246 if you need maximum power, heavy attachment use, or serious snow removal.
- Choose Cat 228 if you want a compact, affordable machine and still need high‑flow.
- Choose JD 317 if low hours and modern comfort matter more than hydraulic output.
Conclusion
The Cat 228, Cat 246, and John Deere 317 each serve different operator needs. For snow blowing and high‑demand hydraulic attachments, the Cat 246 stands out due to its horsepower and hydraulic performance. The Cat 228 offers agility and affordability, while the JD 317 appeals to buyers seeking a newer, lightly used machine. Understanding hydraulic flow, attachment compatibility, and machine power helps ensure the right choice for long‑term productivity.
