277C, 287C,

297C
Multi Terrain Loaders

277C 287C 297C

®
Cat C3.4 DIT Diesel Engine
Net Power (SAE J1349) 61 kW (82 hp) 61 kW (82 hp) 67 kW (90 hp)
Weights
Operating Weight 4307 kg (9,495 lb) 4517 kg (9,958 lb) 4599 kg (10,139 lb)
Operating Specifications
Rated Operating Capacity at 50% Tipping Load 1451 kg (3,200 lb) 1724 kg (3,800 lb) 1905 kg (4,200 lb)
 Features

Sealed and Pressurized Cab

Sealed and pressurized cab option provides
a cleaner and quieter operating environment.

Seat Mounted Adjustable Controls

Ergonomic seat mounted adjustable controls
and available air ride seat can be adjusted
to meet your personal preference.

Suspended Undercarriage
Suspended undercarriage features low
ground pressure so you can work on sensitive
surfaces and in soft underfoot conditions.

High Performance Power Train

Increased horsepower and higher torque
deliver outstanding performance.

High Flow XPS Hydraulic System

High flow XPS hydraulic system available
on all models for applications demanding
maximum hydraulic work tool performance.

More Work Tools

The broad range of performance matched
Cat Work Tools make the Cat Multi Terrain
Loader the most versatile machine on
the job site.

Contents
The Cat C-Series Multi Terrain Loaders lead the industry in
Operator Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
operator comfort, performance and versatility. Inside the
Hydraulics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
spacious operator station, feel the superior comfort of a
Rubber Track Undercarriage . . . . . . . . . .4
sealed and pressurized cab. Adjustable seat mounted
Power Train . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 controls and an available air ride seat keep you
Lift Linkages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 comfortable throughout the work day. Low ground
Work Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 pressures, increased rated operating capacities, higher
Serviceability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 horsepower and improved drawbar performance help
Customer Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 you get more done and increase your bottom line.
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Standard Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

2
Operator Station
Superior comfort to keep you productive throughout the work day.

Superior Comfort
Comfort and ease of operation have been designed into every
aspect of the operator station. The wide, spacious interior and
uncluttered floor provide a comfortable work environment with
excellent head, shoulder and leg room to keep productivity high
and fatigue low.

Sealed and Pressurized Cab

Operators spend long hours in the machine. The optional sealed
and pressurized cab keeps dust out and clean air in for greater
operator comfort. Reduced sound levels within the cab also help
reduce fatigue.

Seat Mounted Joystick Controls

Ergonomic, seat mounted joystick controls enable a wide range
of comfortable operating positions for operators of any size.
The seat and controls are independently adjustable to meet the
specific needs of the operator.

Advanced Machine Information and Control System

The optional Advanced Machine Information and Control System
(AMICS) provides easy to read analog gauges for hydraulic oil
and engine coolant temperature. The electronic display provides
additional operating information such as engine speed, job clock
and diagnostic service codes. This display also provides the user
interface for the optional AccuGrade Grade Control System.
The Selectable Work Speed Control, Selectable Implement
Control and Selectable Hystat Response Control modes allow
the operator to “dial in” his machine to maximize production.

Additional Features for Maximum Comfort

The C-Series machines offer the following additional features
to help you on the job:
• Air ride seat available for an unparalleled level of comfort
in a multi terrain loader.
• Easy to read instrument panels.
• Optional air conditioner and heater for greater comfort in
extreme conditions.
• Optional Selectable Pattern Control which allows the operator
to select the control pattern they are most familiar with for
greater productivity.

3
 Hydraulics
Exceptional lift, breakout and power to meet your needs.
High Performance Hydraulic System
Maximum power and reliability are built into the Cat Multi Terrain Loader hydraulic
system. In addition to providing power to the tracks, this system also powers the
loader lift and tilt functions, powers the auxiliary circuit to drive work tools and
drives the engine cooling fan. The C-Series hydraulic system features increased
lift and tilt breakout forces allowing you to move more material and get more done.
The continuous demand fan provides improved fuel efficiency, increased horsepower,
reduced sound levels and improved cold weather performance. Cat ToughGuard™
hoses increase reliability and durability. High capacity hydraulic tank and side-by-
side cooling package keep components cool for maximum durability.

High Flow XPS

High flow XPS hydraulic system is available on all models for greater machine
versatility. Maximum performance can be maintained regardless of the work
tool speed or conditions with this load sensing, pressure compensating system.
Cat cooling systems are sized to allow the operator to continuously power high
flow work tools in conditions that cause competitive machines to overheat.

Selectable Implement Control

The Selectable Implement Control option with three levels of control gives the
operator the ability to adjust the responsiveness and speed of the lift and tilt
functions for more precise implement control.

Two Speed Option

Two speed option increases top speed up to 14.9 km/h (9.3 mph) allowing you
to finish jobs faster.

Rubber Track Undercarriage

Unique undercarriage delivers low ground pressure, superior suspension.

Cat Multi Terrain Loaders feature a rugged, durable rubber track that is lightweight
and pliable, yet reinforced with high tensile strength cords. The undercarriage
provides low ground pressure, allowing the machine to operate over sensitive
surfaces and in soft underfoot conditions. Elevated, internal positive track drive
keep drive components away from ground debris. Heavy duty torsion axles
suspend each side of the machine frame independently for a smoother ride over
rough terrain. Components are replaceable as individual wear items, reducing
owning and operating costs. A choice of single or dual level suspension
undercarriage is available on all models.

Single Level Suspension Undercarriage

The single level suspension undercarriage distributes the load and greatly
reduces shock and vibration throughout the machine for a comfortable ride
and excellent bucket load retention.

Dual Level Suspension Undercarriage

The dual level suspension undercarriage uses the same concept as the single
level with the addition of oscillating bogie wheels. This provides more track
on the ground, better load retention, improved operator comfort, better use
of high travel speed and the best ride in the industry.

4
Power Train
Aggressive performance with fuel efficiency.
Cat Engine
The high performance power train provides high engine horsepower and torque.
The C-Series features the Cat C3.4 DIT engine – a rugged, reliable engine that
meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 emissions requirements. The 297C is equipped with an
Air-to-Air After Cooler (ATAAC) for better fuel efficiency and lower emissions
as well as increased horsepower and torque.

Hand and Foot Throttles

Hand and foot throttles allow the operator to match engine speed to the task.
The hand throttle is ideal for jobs requiring constant engine speed such as cold
planing, trenching or snow blowing. The foot throttle lets the operator vary
engine speed and minimize fuel consumption for other tasks such as load and
carry, truck loading, grading and dozing.
Lift
Electronic Torque Management
The Electronic Torque Management system maximizes power to the ground and
prevents the engine from stalling in tough digging and dozing applications for
Linkages
maximum productivity. The system allows part throttle operation which provides Built for tough
smoother machine operation and reduces fuel consumption.
working conditions.
Selectable Work Speed Control
The optional Selectable Work Speed Control lets you select the ground speed Choice of Lift Designs
that is best suited for the application. This feature is useful in operations such as Two types of lifting arrangements are
trenching and cold planing that require precise machine control at relatively slow available on the C-Series Multi Terrain
and constant speeds. Loaders – vertical lift (path #1 above)
and radial lift (path #2) – to meet your
Selectable Hystat Response Control
specific application needs.
The optional Selectable Hystat Response Control lets the operator select one of
three modes to match the machine’s drive response to the operator’s preference,
Vertical Lift
skill level and application requirements.
The 287C and 297C feature the vertical
lift design which provides extended reach
and lift height for quick and easy truck
loading and material placement. The lift
height is 3233 mm (127 in) on the 287C
and 3279 mm (129 in) on the 297C.

Radial Lift
The 277C, with its radial lift design,
delivers excellent digging performance
and superior mid-lift reach.

5
Work Tools
Do more jobs with one machine using Cat Work Tools.

The Right Tool for the Job

Designed and built for optimum performance and
durability, Cat Work Tools deliver high productivity
in a variety of applications to maximize versatility:
• Augers
• Backhoes
• Blades (angle, dozer)
• Buckets (general purpose, high capacity, dirt, utility,
light material, multi purpose, industrial grapple,
utility grapple)
• Brooms (angle, pickup, utility)
• Brushcutters
• Cold Planers
• Forks (pallet, industrial grapple, utility
grapple, utility)
• Hydraulic Hammers
• Landscape Tillers
• Landscape Rakes
• Material Handling Arm
• Mulcher
• Power Box Rakes
• Shear
• Snow Blowers
• Stump Grinders
• Trenchers
• Vibratory Compactors
• Wheel Saws

Quick Couplers
Work tools can be changed quickly and easily
with the Cat Multi Terrain Loader’s quick coupler
system. The standard quick coupler features manual
engagement and disengagement of work tools using
two high leverage handles. The optional hydraulic
quick coupler allows the operator to quickly change
tools without leaving the cab.

AccuGrade™ Grade Control System for Skid

Steer, Multi Terrain and Compact Track Loaders
Common to AccuGrade systems for Track-Type
Tractors and Motor Graders, this deeply integrated
solution automates the machine’s electrohydraulic
controls to achieve a consistent grade across the
work site, improve accuracy and increase productivity,
ultimately lowering operating and material costs.

6
 Serviceability
Simplified service and maintenance save you time and money.

Easy Service
Convenient service features make maintenance easy, reducing
your downtime:
• Rear door opens 90 degrees for easy access to both sides
of the engine.
• Cooling package tilts up to provide excellent access to the
engine compartment.
• Cab tilts rearward for easy access to all hydraulic pumps,
motors, valves, lines and hydraulic tank.
• Daily maintenance points are easily accessible.
• Wires are color coded and numbered for easy identification.
• S•O•SSM oil sampling valves are standard to allow regular
monitoring of the engine and hydraulic oil quality.

Customer Support
Unmatched support makes
the difference.
Superior Dealer Service
Your Cat dealer is ready to assist you with your purchase
decision and everything after.
• Make detailed comparisons of the machines you are
considering before you buy – with estimates of component
life, preventative maintenance and the true cost of
production.
• Customize the machine that is right for you using the
Build and Quote application on your dealer’s website
or www.cat.com.
• Financing packages are flexible to meet your needs.
• Repair option programs guarantee the cost of repairs
up front.
• Nearly all parts are available at the dealer parts counter.
• Operator training can improve your operator’s techniques
and boost your profits.
• Your Cat dealer can evaluate the cost involved in repairing,
rebuilding and replacing your machine so you can make the
right choice.

7
 277C, 287C, 297C Multi Terrain Loaders Specifications

Engine Operating Specifications Cab

Engine Model Cat C3.4 DIT Rated Operating ROPS SAE J1040 MAY94,
Net Power Capacity ISO 3471:1994
(SAE J1349) (50% Tipping Load) FOPS SAE J1043 SEPT87,
277C / 287C 61 kW 82 hp 277C 1451 kg 3,200 lb ISO 3449:1992
287C 1724 kg 3,800 lb Level I
297C 67 kW 90 hp
297C 1905 kg 4,200 lb FOPS Level II SAE J231 JAN81,
Gross Power ISO 3449:1992
(SAE J1995) Rated Operating Level II
277C / 287C 63 kW 84 hp Capacity
(35% Tipping Load)
297C 70 kW 94 hp
277C 1060 kg 2,337 lb Power Train
Displacement 3.3 L 201 in3
287C 1229 kg 2,709 lb Travel Speed 9 km/h 5.6 mph
Stroke 120 mm 4.7 in
297C 1363 kg 3,005 lb (Forward or Reverse)
Bore 94 mm 3.7 in
Rated Operating Travel Speed – 14.9 km/h 9.3 mph
Capacity w/Optional 2-Speed Option
Weights Counterweight (Forward or Reverse)

Operating Weight 277C 1620 kg 3,571 lb

277C 4307 kg 9,495 lb 287C 1868 kg 4,118 lb Service Refill Capacities

287C 4517 kg 9,958 lb 297C 2069 kg 4,561 lb
Cooling System 14 L 3.7 gal
297C 4599 kg 10,139 lb Tipping Load
Engine Crankcase 10 L 2.6 gal
277C 3028 kg 6,675 lb
Fuel Tank 98 L 26 gal
287C 3512 kg 7,743 lb
Hydraulic System 57 L 15 gal
297C 3894 kg 8,585 lb
Hydraulic Tank 42 L 11 gal
Breakout Force, 3315 kg 7,308 lb
Tilt Cylinder
Ground Contact Area 1.64 m2 2,542 in2
Ground Pressure
277C 25.5 kPa 3.7 psi
287C 26.9 kPa 3.9 psi
297C 27.7 kPa 4.0 psi

Hydraulic System
Hydraulic Flow Standard
Loader Hydraulic 23 000 kPa 3,335 psi
Pressure
Loader Hydraulic 84 L/min 22 gal/
Flow min
Hydraulic Power 31.9 kW 42.8 hp
Hydraulic Flow High Flow XPS
Max. Loader 28 000 kPa 4,061 psi
Hydraulic Pressure
Max. Loader 125 L/min 33 gal/
Hydraulic Flow min

8
Dimensions

19

13
15 17
9 6

5 10 14
18

12
16
8
11
1
2
3
4

277C
1 Length of Track on Ground 1808 mm 71.2 in
2 Overall Length of Track 2286 mm 90.0 in
3 Length w/o Bucket 2974 mm 117.2 in
4 Length w/Bucket on Ground 3692 mm 145.4 in
5 Height to Top of Cab 2115 mm 83.2 in
6 Max. Overall Height 3998 mm 157.4 in
7 Bucket Pin Height at Max. Lift 3122 mm 122.9 in
8 Bucket Pin Height at Carry Position 200 mm 7.9 in
9 Reach at Max. Lift and Dump 618 mm 24.3 in
10 Clearance at Max. Lift and Dump 2425 mm 95.5 in
11 Ground Clearance 225 mm 8.8 in
12 Departure Angle 42°
13 Maximum Dump Angle 40°
14 Vehicle Width 1981 mm 78.0 in
15 Turning Radius from Center – Machine Rear 1627 mm 64.0 in
16 Turning Radius from Center – Coupler 1487 mm 58.5 in
17 Turning Radius from Center – Bucket 2330 mm 91.7 in
18 Max. Reach w/Arms Parallel to Ground 1406 mm 55.4 in
19 Rack Back Angle at Max. Height 85°

9
 277C, 287C, 297C Multi Terrain Loaders Specifications

Dimensions

19

20 13
9 6 15 17

5 10 14
18

12
16
8
11
1
2
3
4

287C 297C
1 Length of Track on Ground 1808 mm 71.2 in 1808 mm 71.2 in
2 Overall Length of Track 2286 mm 90.0 in 2286 mm 90.0 in
3 Length w/o Bucket 2973 mm 117.2 in 3115 mm 122.6 in
4 Length w/Bucket on Ground 3692 mm 145.4 in 3833 mm 150.9 in
5 Height to Top of Cab 2115 mm 83.2 in 2115 mm 83.3 in
6 Max. Overall Height 4075 mm 160.4 in 4115 mm 162.0 in
7 Bucket Pin Height at Max. Lift 3233 mm 127.3 in 3279 mm 129.1 in
8 Bucket Pin Height at Carry Position 200 mm 7.8 in 200 mm 7.8 in
9 Reach at Max. Lift and Dump 784 mm 30.9 in 767 mm 30.2 in
10 Clearance at Max. Lift and Dump 2450 mm 96.5 in 2487 mm 97.9 in
11 Ground Clearance 225 mm 8.8 in 225 mm 8.8 in
12 Departure Angle 42° 35°
13 Maximum Dump Angle 50° 51°
14 Vehicle Width 1981 mm 78.0 in 1981 mm 78.0 in
15 Turning Radius from Center – Machine Rear 1627 mm 64.0 in 1759 mm 69.3 in
16 Turning Radius from Center – Coupler 1487 mm 58.5 in 1487 mm 58.5 in
17 Turning Radius from Center – Bucket 2330 mm 91.7 in 2331 mm 91.8 in
18 Max. Reach w/Arms Parallel to Ground 1285 mm 50.6 in 1273 mm 50.1 in
19 Rack Back Angle at Max. Height 85° 83°
20 Bucket Pin Reach at Max. Lift 375 mm 14.7 in 378 mm 14.9 in

10
 277C, 287C, 297C Standard Equipment

Standard equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details

ELECTRICAL POWER TRAIN MANDATORY EQUIPMENT

12 volt Electrical System Cat C3.4 DIT Tier 3 Compliant Diesel Engine Hydraulics, Standard or High Flow XPS
90 ampere Alternator Air Cleaner, Dual Element, Radial Seal Quick Coupler, Mechanical or Hydraulic
Ignition Key Start/Stop Switch S•O•SSM Sampling Valves, Engine Oil Seat Belt, 50 mm (2 in) or 75 mm (3 in)
Lights: Gauge backlighting, two rear and Hydraulic Oil
tail lights, two rear working lights, two Filters, Spin-on, Hydraulic Comfort Package
adjustable front halogen lights, dome light. Filters, Bayonet-type, Fuel and Water Separator (must select one of the following):
Backup Alarm Tilt Up Radiator/Hydraulic Oil Cooler • Open ROPS (C1): Cup Holder, Radio
Heavy Duty Battery, 850 CCA Spring Applied, Hydraulically Released, Ready, Suspension Seat (no heater or door)
Wet Multi Disc Parking Brake • Enclosed ROPS with Heat (C2):
OPERATOR ENVIRONMENT Hydrostatic Transmission Cup Holder, Radio Ready, Seat
Gauges: Fuel level, hour meter (choice of Suspension or Air Ride),
Heater and Defroster, Side Windows,
Operator Warning System Indicators: OTHER
Door (either Glass or Polycarbonate)
Air filter restriction, alternator output, Engine Enclosure, Lockable
armrest raised/operator out of seat, engine • Enclosed ROPS with A/C (C3): Features
Extended Life Antifreeze, –37° C (–34° F) of C2 Package plus Air Conditioner
coolant temperature, engine oil pressure,
Machine Tie Down Points (4)
glow plug activation, hydraulic filter
restriction, hydraulic oil temperature, Support, Lift Arm Performance Package
parking brake engaged Hydraulic Oil Level Sight Gauge (must select one of the following):
Vinyl seat, mechanical suspension Radiator Coolant Level Sight Gauge • Performance Package 1: Single Level
Fold-in Ergonomic Contoured Armrest Radiator, Expansion Bottle Suspension Undercarriage, One Speed
Control Interlock System, when operator Cat ToughGuard™ Hose • Performance Package 2: Dual Level
leaves seat or armrest raised: Hydraulic Suspension Undercarriage, One Speed,
Auxiliary, Hydraulics, Continuous Flow
system disables, hydrostatic transmission Self Level
Heavy Duty, Flat Faced Quick Disconnects
disables, parking brake engages • Performance Package 3: Dual Level
Split D-Ring to Route Work Tool Hoses Suspension Undercarriage, Two
ROPS Cab, Open, Tilt Up Along Side of Left Lift Arm Speed, Self Level, Advanced Machine
FOPS, Level I Electrical Outlet, Beacon Information and Control System (AMICS)
Top and Rear Windows Belly Pan Cleanout
Headliner, Deluxe
Floor Mat
Interior Rear View Mirror
12 volt Electric Socket
Horn

277C, 287C, 297C Optional Equipment

Optional equipment may vary. Consult your Cat dealer for details

Counterweight
Beacon, Rotating
Engine Block Heater – 120V or 240V
Oil, Hydraulic, Cold Operation
Paint, Custom
Work Tool Electrical Control
AM/FM Radio with CD player

11
277C, 287C, 297C Multi Terrain Loaders

For more complete information on Cat products, dealer services, and industry solutions,
visit us on the web at www.cat.com
AEHQ5974-01 (08-2009)
© 2009 Caterpillar Inc.
All rights reserved
Printed in the U.S.A. Replaces AEHQ5974

Materials and specifications are subject to change without notice. Featured machines
may include additional equipment. See your Caterpillar dealer for available options.

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16
trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.