Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, Ill., has introduced three new additions to its line of rubber track loaders, the 279C, 289C and 299C. The new loaders feature durable, steel-embedded track and steel undercarriage components. The new tracked machines deliver solid traction and reduced wear on sites with sticky, rocky soils, according to the company. The new compact track loaders combine a suspension-type undercarriage with the chassis of their multi-terrain loader counterparts, the 277C, 287C and 297C. The fully suspended undercarriage employs four independent torsion axles. All three models feature two-speed drive systems, with a maximum speed of 8.5 miles per hour. The new models have rated operating capacities of 3,200, 3,850 and 4,150 pounds at 50 percent of tipping load. Net-horsepower ratings are 82 for the 279C and 289C, and 90 for the 299C. Lift-arm-path design is radial for the 279C and vertical for the 289C and 299C. The new compact track loaders complement the Caterpillar multi-terrain loaders, which feature low ground pressure for high flotation and little ground disturbance.