Throughout the decades, Caterpillar has continued to fit its skid steer loaders with engines that it also manufactures. Many Caterpillar skid steer loaders feature the company's four-cylinder, diesel "3034" engine (specific engine model). This engine offers a 183-cubic-inch displacement. Depending on the model of loader, Caterpillar's engines offer anywhere between 48 horsepower and 74 horsepower.
Most Caterpillar skid steer loaders are designed with hydraulic systems that offer different capacities depending on the model of loader. The hydraulic power system designed for the model 236 skid steer loader pumps hydraulic fluid throughout the system at a rate of 20 GPM, or gallons per minute. This hydraulic system offers pressures in the range of 3,300 psi (pounds per sq. in.). The system fitted into the Caterpillar 262 model offers the same pressure range as the system in the 236 but pumps fluid at a slightly higher rate, 22 GPM.
A machine's rated operating capacity indicates the maximum amount of weight it can lift without increasing the risk of tipping. The 262 model skid steer loader by Caterpillar has a 2,500-pound-rated operating capacity (ROC). In general, all skid steer loaders available from Caterpillar are designed with ROCs anywhere in the range between 1,400 pounds and 2,500 pounds.
In terms of length, Caterpillar skid steer loaders are assembled to a length of between 127 and 142 inches, depending on the model. Length includes the length of the front bucket attachment. Models in this line of Caterpillar skid steer loaders are 77, 78 or 82 inches in width over the tires. The height on these loaders is 60, 66 or 72 inches, depending on the model. The Caterpillar 216 skid steer loader is the lightest model in this line of loaders at 4,590 pounds. The heaviest model in this line is the 262 at 7,655 pounds. Skid steer loaders in this line weigh between 4,590 and 7,655 pounds.