While attempting to find a way to give his steam tractors increased traction and a greater footprint, Mr. Holt brought track drive to the world of tractors. According to Caterpillar, when introducing this new method of mobility a person watching the event commented that “the machine crawled along much like a caterpillar”. Benjamin liked the moniker and proceeded to call his machine the Caterpillar. Eventually, Mr. Holt trademarked the name in 1910. In 1925 when Holt Manufacturing Co, and C.L.Best Tractor Co merged they became Caterpillar Tractor Company.

With early growth being focused in the Construction, Agriculture and heavy Industry, Caterpillar now has its fingers into many other areas, including electronics, insurance and financial products. But nothing reaches around the globe as thoroughly as CAT machines. From the cold Antarctic to the far corners of the world, you’ll find the name Caterpillar.

In 1998, the same year Caterpillar purchased the engine manufacturer Varity Perkins, the 216, 226, 236, and 246 Skid Steer Loaders were produced as part of the new compact construction equipment product line. These machines with their small size, light weight, maneuverability and attachment options quickly became favorites. With the ability to be easily trailer towed by a common pick-up, and it’s obvious why these are so popular. Auxiliary hydraulic systems on some newer models like the 272D XHP provide up to 40 gpm of flow at over 4000 psi mean CAT machines can handle even the most demanding attachments making for a small machine that can tackle seemingly unlimited work duties.

With time comes advancements and improvements. One such improvement has been in the area of “cab environment” We are far from the days of cab environment meaning if it’s raining, it’s wet and if it’s hot, dusty and dry…..so are you. In fact, with the “Cab-One” Modular Cab utilized in some of the new D series CAT sets a high standard. With its 1 piece construction, we are now talking in terms of internal cabin overpressure (to keep dust out), HVAC systems, heaters and climate control. Operator comfort has come into its own.

As with all things, there are times you’ll need to deal with issues. Breakage, updating and regular maintenance are things that will need to be addressed. Our objective here at Loader Parts Source is to bring together a variety of Caterpillar skid steer parts and experience to help you through any service, repair or upgrade you wish to perform. If it’s changing a wiper blade, gear pump, hydraulic drive motor or track we’ll be here to provide the right Caterpillar parts you need!

We offer hydraulic pumps, hydraulic motors, cylinder seal kits, undercarriage parts, filters, engine parts, and much more. We welcome your suggestions for new parts.