VIDEO: Cat’s new 253 CTL features a redesigned one-piece track roller frame for added stability

Designed as a versatile solution for grading and material handling, the new Cat 253 compact track loader offers a 2,006-pound (910-kilogram) rated operating capacity and an operating weight of 9,343 pounds (4,238 kilograms), supporting easier transport between job sites. 

Building on the Cat 259D3 foundation, the 253 integrates a next-generation one-piece undercarriage with rigid frame-mounted axles designed to support traction and stability when handling heavy loads. Its four fully independent axles mount directly to the frame to enhance grading capability, while the new 15-inch (380-mm) general-duty C-Pattern tracks are designed to increase ground engagement and deliver strong grip in mud and other soft underfoot conditions.

Key features of the Cat 253 CTL

• Redesigned one-piece track roller frame similar to the 255 for stability and confidence
• Canopy and sealed and pressurized cab designs available to meet customer preference
• Standard flow, 20 gpm at 3,336 psi (76 lpm at 23.000 kPa) hydraulics standard on canopy models
• High-flow, 30 gpm at 3,336 psi (112 lpm at 23.000 kPa) hydraulics standard on cab models
• Standard high-back, heated air-ride seat with adjustable joystick pods provide all-day operator comfort
• Operators can adjust joystick command patterns between ISO and H Patterns to meet preference
• Electronically controlled Cat 3.3B engine delivers high horsepower and torque, while meeting U.S. EPA Tier 4 Final/Stage V emissions standards
• Tilt-up, one-piece cab design provides quick access to under-cab components
• Ground-level access to daily service and routine maintenance points helps improve productivity
• Higher travel speeds are achieved through two-speed transmission
• Full-colour, 5-inch (127-mm) LCD screen with soft-touch buttons delivers intuitive operating control
• Aftermarket customization is possible through purpose-built kits to expand design flexibility

New integrated tech delivers increased performance 

Cat technology helps to advance efficiency and safety at the job site, while today's "smart" Cat 253 CTL technology helps to streamline equipment maintenance through leveraging connected worksites.

• Standard dual self-levelling automatically keeps attachments and material level when raising and lowering for better stability and material retention
• Return to dig/work tool positioner automates repetitive tasks to increase operating efficiency
• Creep speed technology helps prevent overspeeding to achieve a smooth, precise finish in applications such as cold planing or fine grading

"Each model in the 8,000- to 10,000-lb compact track loader class features a unique undercarriage design engineered to optimize performance across a wide range of applications, and the addition of the 253 to the line gives customers another solution for meeting their toughest challenges. Combining our one-piece next-generation undercarriage with independent rigid, frame-mounted axles gives customers a system that helps to deliver a stable platform when lifting and grading," shared Zach Waite, commercial director, Caterpillar Industry Solutions.

"The new 253 fits well between the Cat 249D3 and 255 models, and the C-Pattern track design gives customers a productive all-around machine that can perform on gravel, dirt, hard surfaces, turf, snow and unfinished terrain," adds Waite. "Plus, the 255 and 253 track types are interchangeable, giving customers more options."