Top 100: B Series Boasts Greater Horsepower, Easier Control

Caterpillar's B Series skid-steer and rubber-track loaders feature Tier II engines, and improvements in power train, hydraulic and electrical line routings, and cab comfort. Hydraulic joystick controls provide operator control and comfort, requiring less effort than servo or mechanical linkages, according to Cat. Turbocharged engines are standard on 13 of the 15 models, and horsepower was increased on 12. Optional high-flow hydraulics are available on the 226B, 242B and 257B. High Flow XPS, a load-sensing variable-displacement piston pump, is standard on the 248B and 268B. Estimated list price: $23,500 to $54,710.