248B Caterpillar 248B Specifications & Technical Data (2005—2026)

Quick Coupler and Cat Work Tools

A universal work tool interface and quick coupler help make the Cat Skid Steer Loader the most versatile machine on the job site. Add the wide range of performance-matched Cat Work Tools for maximum utility and production.

Caterpillar Skid Steer Loader

The Caterpillar Skid Steer Loader, with its many work tool options, is a highly versatile, compact construction machine. It is designed to deliver traditional Cat reliability and productivity in the toughest working conditions.

Visibility

Operating ease and productivity is enhanced on the Cat Skid Steer Loader by excellent visibility. The wide cab opening offers an exceptional view of the work tool. The sloped angle of the engine compartment allows excellent visibility to the rear of the machine. A new, standard convex rearview mirror gives the operator a panoramic view of the machine’s rear and sides. In addition, for better visibility in low-light conditions, the standard forward lights are now adjustable 10 degrees in any direction.

Access/Egress

The Cat Skid Steer Loader cab is designed to make machine operation simple, productive and comfortable. Getting in and out of the cab is easy through a wide opening with three point grab irons and skid-resistant steps. Tilt cylinders are neatly located under the lift arms so not to interfere with operator access and egress. Plenty of uncluttered floor space makes stepping into the cab even easier.

Cat Work Tools

Cat Work Tools extend the versatility of the Cat Skid Steer Loader. Designed and built for optimum performance and durability, these tools deliver high productivity, long service life and excellent value.

Service Access

The rear door opens 90 degrees for easy access to both sides of the in-line (lengthwise) mounted engine.

Removable Belly Pan

A removable belly pan section on the floor of the machine’s lower frame provides excellent access for periodic cleaning.

Service Plans

Maintenance Service Plans help you manage machine maintenance. Choose from a wide range of maintenance plans and services at the time you purchase a machine. Repair option plans guarantee the cost of repairs up front. Diagnostics programs such as Scheduled Oil Sampling, Coolant Sampling and Technical Analysis help you avoid downtime and unscheduled repairs.

High Performance Power Train

The Cat 3044C DIT engine provides high engine horsepower and torque, allowing part-throttle operation for lower sound levels and lower fuel consumption. Anti-stall feature maximizes power to the drive train and work tools without stalling the engine.

Anti-Stall Feature

The anti-stall system on the Cat Skid Steer Loader allows maximum power to the wheels while minimizing engine stalling. This system helps maximize productivity for experienced operators and makes it easier for novice operators to become productive.

Cat Diesel Power

The heart of the Cat Skid Steer Loader power train is the Caterpillar 3044C DIT engine. This rugged, reliable four cylinder engine offers aggressive performance and a fast torque curve for quick response. It is also a low emission engine, fully U.S. EPA Tier 2 compliant.

Operator Station

Operator comfort and ease of operation are designed into the operator’s station from every aspect, including ergonomic features such as low-effort joystick controls and an adjustable contoured seat.

Dual Engine Throttle Controls

The hand and foot throttles allow the operator to match engine speed to the task. The hand throttle is ideal for jobs requiring consistent 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.

Advanced Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system in the Cat Skid Steer Loader is designed for maximum power and reliability. More hydraulic power means better overall performance. Fewer components mean fewer hydraulic connections and reduced chance of leaks.

Variable Displacement Piston Pumps

The dual, variable-displacement, axial piston pumps are driven directly off the engine and provide hydraulic flow to the drive motors via a closed loop system. Drive motors transfer mechanical power to the wheels via two high-strength, pre-stressed chains per machine side. Chains run in an oil bath for constant lubrication and long life. Chains are adjustable through slots in the axle housings.

Power and Reliability

Maximum power and reliability are built into the Cat Skid Steer Loader hydraulic system. In addition to providing power to drive the wheels, this system also provides the loader lift and tilt functions, powers the auxiliary circuit to drive work tools and drives the engine cooling fan.

Hydraulic Pumps

The hydraulic pumps are driven directly off the engine for maximum hydraulic performance and reliability — no belts are used. Pumps are fixed-displacement and provide flow to the loader and auxiliary circuits at 81 L/min (22 gal/min) at high idle. Maximum system pressure for the loader and standard auxiliary circuits is 23 000 kPa (3335 psi) for the 236B and 246B. A load sensing, variable displacement piston pump provides flow and pressure for the 248B loader and auxiliary circuit at 125 L/min (33 gal/min) at high idle. Maximum system pressure for High Flow auxiliary circuit is 28 000 kPa (4060 psi). Control of the loader lift and tilt functions is by hydraulically-operated joystick controls for low effort and precise operation.

Auxiliary Hydraulics

Standard auxiliary hydraulics to power work tools are available through quick connect hydraulic couplings that are rigidly mounted to the loader arm. The Caterpillar line of high pressure XT™ ES hoses and O-ring face seals help ensure a leak-free system.

Reliability and Cleanliness

Hydraulic system reliability and cleanliness are improved by using single components in place of multiple components, such as the monoblock hydraulic valve and monoblock pumps. Fewer leak points improve reliability and result in a cleaner machine. In addition, hydraulic oil flows through a 5-micron spin-on filter. A filter restriction indicator is located in the operator station. A 74-micron screen in the hydraulic tank prevents larger debris from entering the system and causing damage to the hydraulic components.

Hydraulic Oil Cooler

A high-efficiency, hydraulic oil cooler lets the Cat Skid Steer Loader work longer and harder in higher ambient temperatures, even when using continuous high flow work tools. The high capacity, hydraulic oil reservoir also helps keep operating temperatures lower.

248B High Flow XPS

Maximum pressure can be maintained regardless of the work tool speed or conditions with this load sensing, pressure compensating system. Hydraulic power is maximized for any given load with a variable displacement, axial piston pump that allows high pressure at any given speed for high hydraulic power at low or high idle.

Cooling System

The radiator, hydraulic oil cooler and grill tilt up to increase access to the cooling system during maintenance and allow easier cleaning of debris from between the grill and cooling package. The cooling fan is hydraulically-driven for quieter operation and to eliminate the service and maintenance that comes with belt driven fans.

Easy Tilting Cab

The machine cab can now be tilted rearward by an individual using a single tool. The cab is held in place by a self-latching mechanism. When the cab is tilted back, all hydraulic pumps, motors, valves, lines and fuel tank are accessible for quicker, easier service.

Caterpillar Scheduled Oil Sampling (S•O•S℠)

The scheduled oil sampling valves are standard to allow regular monitoring of the engine and hydraulic oil quality.

Drive Axles

The drive axles are forged and induction hardened for maximum life. They include a unique lip and outer seal to help prevent debris such as wire and twine from wrapping around the axle and destroying the seal. An inner seal is used for permanent lubrication of axle bearings so no daily axle service is required.