CAT 259D3 vs 299D3: Track Size & Fitment Differences
The Caterpillar 259D3 and 299D3 are both popular compact track loaders, they look similar at a glance, and they sit in the same D3 family — so it is easy to assume they take the same rubber tracks. They do not. These are different frame sizes built for different jobs, and the tracks are not interchangeable. If you are shopping for either machine, this guide breaks down the real differences so you order the right size the first time.
We move a lot of CAT tracks, so this is the practical version: what each machine is, how the track sizes differ, and exactly how to confirm fitment off your own loader.
The Short Answer
The 259D3 is a smaller-frame, lower-horsepower loader. The 299D3 is a large-frame, high-horsepower machine. The 299D3 carries more weight and more hydraulic power, so it runs a wider track than the 259D3. A track that fits one will not fit the other — different width, and typically a different link count.
If you only remember one thing: do not buy a 259D3 track for a 299D3 or vice versa. Confirm the size molded on your own track.
How CAT Track Sizes Are Written
Every rubber track is described as width x pitch x links:
- Width — overall width in millimeters. 320mm is about 13 inches; 450mm is about 18 inches.
- Pitch — distance between drive lug centers, in millimeters.
- Links — count of drive lugs around the loop.
All three numbers must match your machine. For a full walkthrough, see the TrackTECH track size chart.
CAT 259D3 vs 299D3 Size Comparison
| Spec | CAT 259D3 | CAT 299D3 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame class | Compact / mid | Large |
| Common track width | 320mm (13") | 450mm (18") |
| Typical size range | 320 x 86 x ~52-53 | 450 x 86 x ~56-58 |
| Relative ground pressure | Lower footprint | Wider flotation |
| Best suited to | Tighter sites, lighter material | Heavy material handling, soft ground |
Note: CAT produced these machines across multiple configurations. The widths above reflect the most common factory setups, but you should always confirm the exact size — especially the link count — off the track on your machine before ordering.
CAT 259D3
The 259D3 is the smaller, nimbler loader of the two. It commonly runs a 320mm (13") track, which keeps its footprint compact for tighter job sites and lighter-duty work. It is a favorite for landscaping, residential grading, and anywhere maneuverability matters more than raw lift. If you run a 259D3, you can shop tracks built for it directly in our CAT 259D3 collection.
CAT 299D3
The 299D3 is the heavy hitter — large frame, high horsepower, and more hydraulic muscle for demanding material handling and grading. To carry that weight without sinking, it runs a wider 450mm (18") track for better flotation and traction. Tread choice matters more on this machine because it is doing harder work in tougher conditions. Shop tracks for it in our CAT 299D3 collection.
Why They Are Not Interchangeable
Three reasons:
- Width. The 259D3's 320mm track is physically narrower than the 299D3's 450mm track. The wider track will not seat on the narrower machine's undercarriage, and the narrow track would leave a large machine under-supported.
- Link count. The larger machine wraps a longer loop with more drive lugs. Mismatched link counts will not track correctly.
- Sprocket and roller geometry. The undercarriage components are sized to the track. Forcing the wrong track stresses everything and leads to premature wear or de-tracking.
How to Confirm Your Exact CAT Track Size
-
Read the molded size on your worn track. Look between the lugs or on the outer edge for a stamp like
320x86x52or450x86x56. Clean the rubber first. - Count the drive lugs. No legible stamp? Count the lugs around the inside of the loop for your link count.
- Confirm your exact model. 259D3 and 299D3 are clearly different, but double-check you are not looking at a 289D3 (a mid-frame machine that splits the difference).
- Call us. Send your make, model, year, and a photo of the old track to (850) 816-7898 and we will verify before you buy.
Picking a Tread Pattern
Once size is settled, choose tread for your ground:
- Block / C-Block tread — smoother ride, better on hard surfaces, easier on turf. Good fit for many 259D3 jobs.
- Multi-bar / zig-zag tread — more bite in dirt and mud, common on hard-working 299D3 machines.
See our tread pattern guide, or shop by pattern: C-Block tread and multi-bar tread.
FAQ
Can I put 299D3 tracks on a 259D3? No. The 299D3 runs a wider track with a different link count. It will not fit the 259D3's undercarriage.
Is the 299D3 track the same as the 289D3? Not necessarily. The 289D3 is a mid-frame machine and may differ in link count and width. Verify off the molded size rather than assuming.
Which machine has the wider track, the 259D3 or the 299D3? The 299D3. It is the larger, heavier loader and commonly runs a 450mm (18") track versus the 259D3's 320mm (13").
Do you stock tracks for both? Yes — both the 259D3 and 299D3, with fast free shipping and a 24-month warranty. Call if you need help confirming size.
Order the Right CAT Track, Confirmed by a Tech
Different machines, different tracks — get the size right and you are done. Shop the CAT 259D3 collection, the CAT 299D3 collection, or browse all CAT skid steer rubber tracks. Not sure which size your loader takes? Call our techs at (850) 816-7898. Technicians by trade, fitment confidence guaranteed, every track shipped free with a 24-month warranty.