ASV Skid Steers — 2016 Spec Guide
This Seasoned Track Loader Vet Enters the Skid Steer Market
While ASV’s line of skid steer loaders were just introduced in July 2015, the same designs have been in widespread field operation under various other brand names for several years prior. And, although each model was designed from the ground-up as skid steer loaders, they each share many of the same field-proven components and designs as ASV’s long-running line of compact track loaders. These machines give customers another field-proven option when selecting a compact loader, without sacrificing performance, quality or features, says the company.
The current ASV skid steer loader line includes two sizes, each available with either radial or vertical loaders. The RS-60 (radial) and VS-60 (vertical) share some of the time-proven powertrain, hydraulic and operator station components as the ASV RT-60 track loader but are purpose-designed as skid steer loaders for optimum balance and tipping load. They offer a powerful single-speed auxiliary hydraulic system for use with a wide range of attachments. For work in soft underfoot conditions or over obstacles, the RS-60 and VS-60 offer more ground clearance than most others in their class, says ASV.
These units also have a greater departure angle so they push up on higher grades without bottoming out. Arm lifting force and breakout force are also higher than most other competitive models so they can dig and carry more, says ASV. Side-by-side cooling systems help assure these machines work longer and harder in all applications.
The larger RS-75 and VS-75 offer even more tractive power and performance and share some components with the ASV RT-75 compact track loader. Both models have good breakout and lift arm force ratings plus class-leading operating capacities that make these among the most productive and capable skid steers available, says ASV. They also offer optional two-speed auxiliary hydraulics. Each have higher ground clearance and a greater departure angle than other similar-sized skid steers, allowing them to operate in a wider range of conditions and applications. A high-performance cooling package includes side-by-side engine and hydraulic oil coolers that keep the machine operating at full load, even under higher ambient temperatures.
Advice to Buyers
“When comparing skid steer loaders, look for machines that let you work in more places,” says John Wilkinson, national sales manager with ASV. “Good ground clearance on skid steers lets you work over softer ground conditions and over objects that limit the range of operation. You can also pile higher and work in more rugged terrain if your skid steer has a good departure angle. And when temperatures rise and your applications demand more, look for a skid steer loader that has a high-performance cooling system.”
