United States / North American reference
Verified specifications
Values are manufacturer-published or faithfully converted from the cited manufacturer record. Manufacturer-published dual units are retained where available, and the basis column travels with every value.| Specification | Metric | Imperial | Standard / configuration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rated operating capacity (35% tipping load) | 1,133 kg | 2,499 lb | 35% of tipping load |
| Operating capacity (50% tipping load) | 1,619 kg | 3,570 lb | 50% of tipping load |
| Tipping load | 3,238 kg | 7,140 lb | Manufacturer reference configuration |
| Lift breakout force | 2,674 kgf | 5,895 lbf | Manufacturer product page |
What the specifications mean
A 50% operating-capacity figure is not directly equivalent to a 35% SAE track-loader rating.
Tipping load describes a test condition, not a safe material-handling instruction.
Breakout force and ROC answer different job questions.
Configurations and options to verify
- Optional counterweight raises the published 35% ROC to 2,632 lb.
- Track, cab and hydraulic-package details affect weight and attachment fit.
- Use the correct 35% or 50% basis in every comparison.
Used 255 inspection priorities
- Inspect tracks, sprockets, rollers, idlers and final drives as a complete wear system.
- Check loader-arm pivots, coupler lock, lift and tilt cylinders, and frame or tower repairs.
- Test standard or high-flow auxiliary hydraulics under load and confirm cooling performance.
- Verify restraint bar, interlocks, controls, camera and two-speed travel where equipped.
Hours, condition and ownership cost
Hours are context, not a condition grade. Duty cycle, idle time, maintenance evidence, wear-system measurements, structural repairs and installed technology should be evaluated together.
Cost drivers to model
- Track-system replacement and debris exposure often matter more than headline hours.
- Hydraulic-powered attachments can materially change fuel use, cooling demand and wear.
- Model utilization, attachment depreciation, transport and surface-restoration costs separately.
Attachments and compatibility
- Universal-style mounting does not confirm hydraulic or electrical compatibility.
- Match flow, pressure, case drain, electrical harness, tool weight and machine stability.
- Compare rated capacity only on the same tipping-load basis.
Transport planning
- Record machine weight with cab, tracks, counterweights, coupler and fitted attachment.
- Measure overall width and height; verify trailer payload and axle distribution for the complete load.
Manufacturer provenance
Sources and verification notes
Each exact value above points to one of these first-party records.Caterpillar
Open manufacturer source 255 Compact Track Loader
United States · exact model technical page · verified August 2026 · confidence: manufacturer-verified