Skid Steer and Compact Track Loader Showcase
Bobcat
Bobcat’s M-Series line of skid steer loaders features durability and performance enhancements that provide operators increased uptime, improved visibility and a more comfortable cab. The cab-forward design moves the operator closer to the attachment and provides visibility in all directions with a large cab door opening. Simple check points and enhanced design make it easier to perform maintenance correctly at the proper intervals. The hydraulic systems on M-Series loaders have been engineered for higher standard flow and pressure that give attachments more power to work more quickly. New machines include the S510, S530, S550, S570 and S590 skid steer loaders. The S510 and S550 feature a radial-lift path, providing operators the reach and visibility they require for dumping over a wall, backfilling or loading flatbed trucks. The S530, S570 and S590 models feature a vertical-lift path, providing operators the ability to lift heavier loads higher, making it easier to clear high-sided truck boxes and hoppers, as well as placing pallets loaded with heavy material. For more information, visit www.bobcat.com.
Case
Case Construction Equipment introduces updates to its line of skid steer loaders that meet the federal Tier 4 Final (Tier 4f) emission standards with upgrades to four products in its Alpha Series line. Leading the way are the popular Case SR175 and SV185 medium-frame skid steers, which meet the mandates with new engine technology and a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) solution only. The SR175 and SV185 skid steers are updated with a new ISM diesel four-cylinder turbocharged and after-cooled engine with a high-pressure common rail (HPCR) fuel system design and electronic controls. The SR175 boasts a 21 percent higher peak torque rise at 1,800 rpm compared to the previous model, and goes from 60 to 67 gross hp — a 12 percent increase. While the SV185 remains at 60 gross hp, it has 7 percent more torque than the previous version. Users also have the flexibility to increase the machines’ rated operating capacities by 100 lbs — to 1,850 lbs for the SR175 and 1,950 lbs for the SV185 — with optional counterweights. For more information, visit www.casece.com.
Caterpillar
The new Cat 272D skid steer loader and 299D compact track loader (CTL) are now joined by a pair of high-performance counterparts, the 272D XHP and 299D XHP, which are the largest, most powerful skid steer and compact track loaders Caterpillar has ever built. The new D Series models build on the premium features, solid performance, quality and durability of the C Series by adding a more powerful engine, the Cat C3.8, which meets Tier 4 Interim (Tier 4i) emissions standards, and by incorporating design features that further enhance lifting, digging and work tool performance. The new engine uses a redesigned air intake path for added efficiency, and a dealer installed pre-cleaner kit is available for dusty, dirty applications. Larger lift cylinders on all four new D Series models provide a 19-percent boost in lifting force, compared with C Series models. An available electrically activated quick coupler replaces the previously used hydraulically actuated coupler, allowing a simpler design that eliminates hydraulic lines, connectors and valves. Self-relieving quick disconnects allow work tool changes to be made quickly and easily. For more information, visit www.cat.com.
Gehl
Gehl introduces its new R Series radial-lift skid loaders. This all-new line includes three models — the R190, the R220 and the R260. Offering an enhanced operator station with an integrated digital display, improved visibility all-around, pressurized cabs, Tier 4 engines and a high-powered hydraulic system, the R Series is the next evolution of Gehl skid loaders. The R Series radial-lift skid loaders fall into the large-frame category, bringing performance to the jobsite. When equipped with optional counterweights, the rated operating capacities range from 2,110 lbs on the R190 to 2,780 lbs on the R260. Lift heights reach up to 120.5 in. on the R190 and 123 in. on the R220 and R260. These large-frame loaders come equipped with emissions compliant Tier 4 Yanmar engines that incorporate diesel particulate filter (DPF) technology. This engine technology is environmentally sound and does not require fuel after-treatments, such as urea. With maximum torque ratings from 173 ft-lbs on the R190 to 206 ft-lbs on the R260, these machines are equipped with the power needed to tackle demanding jobs. For more information, visit www.gehl.com.
JCB
JCB recently updated its skid steer and CTLs with the company’s own unique Ecomax engine that meets all EPA Tier 4i (small platform models) and Tier 4f (large platform models) regulations without the need for exhaust after-treatment or DPF. Contractors who use these machines can benefit from significant fuel savings, lower whole-life service costs and better performance. Machine downtime is minimized since there’s no after-treatment or DPF to service. The large platform loaders will now feature the electro-hydraulic control levers already proven on the small platform machines. This system gives operators three levels of response, from slow modulation for fine trimming work to faster and more responsive controls for digging and loading. The electronic control system also allows the option of specifying H-pattern controls rather than the standard JCB ISO pattern — improving integration in mixed fleets where operators have experience with alternative control patterns. Attachment and bucket changes are faster thanks to an optional electronic quick-hitch. For more information, visit www.jcbna.com.
John Deere
The new E-Series line of skid steer loaders and CTLs from John Deere feature enhancements and improvements that were developed after extensive input from customers to enhance operator and machine productivity. For the E-Series, customer input largely dealt with areas of the machines that improve on uptime, productivity and lower daily operating costs. The large-frame skid steers and CTLs feature a flat floor design with 25 percent more foot room than previous models, giving operators more comfort in the cab. Lower noise levels also contribute to reduced operator fatigue and increased productivity. All models include low-effort electro-hydraulic (EH) controls for additional comfort and ease of operation. The EH controls are available for ISO, H and foot control patterns. In addition, the E-Series features an option to allow the operator to switch between all three industry control patterns. The E-Series consists of five total models — three large-frame skid steers (326E, 328E and 332E) and two large-frame CTLs (329E and 333E). Mid-frame skid steer and CTL models will be available later this year. For more information, visit www.johndeere.com.
Kubota
Powered by efficient Kubota engines, Kubota’s CTLs are all-Kubota designed, engineered and manufactured to deliver durability and quality. The 74.3-gross hp SVL75-2 boasts a 6,204-lb bucket breakout force and a 4,881-lb lifting capacity. It is powered by a four-cylinder, direct injection, turbocharged Kubota diesel engine. Kubota’s versatile compact track loaders are equipped with a rigid-mount undercarriage, a vertical lift designed for long reach (41.7 in.) and maximum lifting and dumping capabilities. A variety of performance-matched attachments are available for the SVL75-2, including several bucket options with teeth or straight edges, four-in-one buckets, pallet forks and more. The Kubota SVL75-2 offers a wide cab entrance and a spacious, comfortable operator area with a high-back, fully adjustable suspension seat and ample leg room, and the hand-and-foot throttle ensures convenience. The Kubota SVL75-2 is equipped with two-speed travel and high-ground clearance for optimal travel performance on rough construction site terrain and is built to ensure stability and comfort in uneven terrain. For more information, visit www.kubota.com.
Mustang
The new Mustang 2500RT track loader is a great addition to the innovative RT Series track loader line from Mustang. With an operating capacity of 2,500 lbs (at 35 percent tipping capacity) and a Tier 4 engine, the 2500RT offers additional capacity while providing the same industry-exclusive features equipment owners have come to expect from Mustang track loaders. The 2500RT track loader is equipped with a powerful 74.3-hp, Tier 4-compliant Deutz turbo-diesel engine. The 2500RT delivers 243 ft-lbs of torque and up to 14,317 lbs of tractive effort, resulting in better traction and stronger digging forces. In addition, the Deutz TD 3.6 engine does not require any fuel after-treatments or periodic regeneration, which means less downtime for routine maintenance on the jobsite. The 2500RT track loader features the industry-exclusive Automatic Track Tensioning System. The patented Automatic Track Tensioning System eliminates the need for manually tensioning the tracks on the loader before operation — saving on time and increasing the life of the tracks. For more information, visit www.mustangmfg.com.
Volvo
Featuring a single loader arm design, Volvo Construction Equipment’s skid steer loaders and CTLs deliver customers the superior loading performance and durability found in a traditional skid steer design, along with the improved visibility, safety and enhanced cab access of a side-entry machine. The new wheeled and tracked models available are the radial-lift MC60C and MC70C, and the vertical-lift MC85C, MC95C and MCT85C. Rated operating capacities for these models range from 1,350 to 1,900 lbs and gross engine power from 48 to 59 hp. The robust design and reinforcement of a single loader arm provides reliability and effectively distributes the load. Without the horizontal cross member found on two-arm vertical-lift machines, operators experience excellent all-around visibility. The cab also features a large top window for improved visibility during truck loading. Each model features good dump height and reach, along with powerful lift capacity — making Volvo skid steer loaders and compact track loaders highly efficient in repeated load-and-carry operations. Powerful engines deliver proven power and dependability. For more information, visit www.volvoce.com.