Industry Inventory: Compact Tool Carrier Category
A quality crew needs an all-around ace — just like every winning team needs a hard-nosed go-to guy who can do everything faster and better than the rest. He has the most talent when it comes to a diversity of jobs, performing a variety of tasks with no bones about a long day of varying applications.
Construction and landscape contractors need strong men out in the field, spearheading crews, multitasking onsite and getting projects finished on time. Sometimes this ace can be a versatile and powerful piece of equipment, engineered to dig, lift or carry longer and harder than any employee of the month. But even when you compare equipment, there is always that one machine that seems to do more than just about every other piece of equipment combined. It’s called a compact tool carrier (or sometimes a compact utility loader, compact skid steer or mini track loader), and it’s designed to do a little bit of everything on a jobsite.
Manufacturers such as Toro, Ramrod, Bobcat, Ditch Witch, Vermeer and Boxer are all designing and selling innovative products in the compact tool carrier market today. Buyers have a bevy of inventive options — stand-on and walk-behind units, hydraulic flow rates from 8 to 14 gpm, gas and diesel engines, wheels or dedicated track undercarriages, enhanced operator control patterns and more than 70 different attachments. Add those growing options and models to a bigger awareness of these mighty mini loaders and you can find your perfect model with a little research.
To help speed things up, CE took the initiative. We surveyed the six biggest compact tool carrier brands in the industry, and what we found are some of the most hard-working and versatile utility machines for their size. Pore over the next seven pages, read the product summaries, check the specs and find your crew’s new ace in the hole.
Keith Gribbins is managing editor of Compact Equipment, based in Peninsula, Ohio.
Ditch Witch Mini Skid Steers
The Utility Equipment Pioneer Produces Four Compact Tool Carriers
History
In the late 1940s, Ed Malzahn, then a recent college graduate with an engineering degree, had an idea to build a small compact trenching machine that could replace the pick and shovel when installing residential utility services. By 1949, Malzahn had succeeded in producing the first workable compact trencher. Charlie’s Machine Shop was renamed The Charles Machine Works Inc. and the first seeds of the worldwide Ditch Witch organization were planted. Today, the company is a one-stop source for trenchers, trenchless machinery, vibratory plows, pneumatic piercing tools, electronic tracking and locating tools, vacuum excavation systems, pipe bursting, compact tool carriers and Zahn utility equipment. In 2003, the Ditch Witch organization expanded its underground construction equipment to include a mini skid steer (a.k.a. compact tool carrier) with the SK500.
Products
Ditch Witch has a roundup of four mini skid steers — the SK350, SK500H, SK500K and its latest and largest unit, the SK650. This quartet of tool carriers gives customers plenty of options including choices in ride-on or walk-behind platforms, gas or diesel engines and more than 70 different attachments. All model numbers correspond with the rated operating capacity of each unit.
The SK350 has a 36-in. wide dedicated track undercarriage and the added benefit of a stand-on platform, which keeps operators from trekking around muddy or debris-strewn jobsites. The unit’s 7.5-gal fuel tank provides almost five hours of operating time every day. Gas and hydraulic tanks reside on either side of the machine’s frame, so operators don’t have to lift the hood to refuel or top off hydraulic fluid, and both tanks are lockable. The SK350 is also equipped with quick-disconnect hose fittings, so attachments can be changed under pressure, without shutting off the machine. Buyers also have a choice of aggressive tracks for better traction or turf-friendly tracks for less ground pressure.
For many operators, riding on a compact tool carrier platform like the SK350 has a bigger benefit. It makes long work days less fatiguing and boggy worksites easier to traverse. Sometimes a walk-behind model is preferred, especially in cramped quarters with lots of stop-and-go projects. The SK500 is just such a machine; it’s a track-mounted, walk-along mini skid steer that’s small in size and boasts big power. Engineered with a 24-hp Honda or a 27-hp Kohler gas engine, the SK500 has 500 lbs of operating capacity, a maximum lift height of 81.1 in. and a narrow width of 35.5 in. The unit’s rubber track undercarriage includes long tracks and a high ground clearance to increase unit stability on hills and decrease ground pressure on delicate green space. The SK500 also features 12 gpm of hydraulics, powered by a set of two hydraulic gear pumps for better attachment control.
The largest of the Ditch Witch compact tool carries is the SK650. The SK650 is the only diesel engine in the lineup with a 31.5-hp Kubota. This is the only compact tool carrier that directs 20 net hp to the attachment, enabling this relatively small platform unit to outperform other machines of comparable size — even riding units. RS#50 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Ditch Witch Compact Tool Carrier Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 35%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
SK350 | 350 lbs | 1,030 lbs | 1,660 lbs | 12 gpm | 20 hp | 70.4 in. | $14,995-$15,995 (with 36-in. bucket) |
SK500H | 500 lbs | 1,450 lbs | 2,270 lbs | 12 gpm | 24 hp | 81.1 in. | $20,000-$20,750 (with 44-in. bucket) |
SK500K | 500 lbs | 1,450 lbs | 2,270 lbs | 13 gpm | 27 hp | 81.1 in. | $20,000-$20,750 (with 44-in. bucket) |
SK650 | 650 lbs | 1,860 lbs | 2,630 lbs | 13.5 gpm | 31.5 hp | 81.1 in. | $24,750-$25,500 (with 52-in. bucket) |
Contact Info
Ditch Witch
1959 W. Fir
Perry, OK 73077
Ph: (800) 654-6481
Fax: (580) 572-3523
Web: www.ditchwitch.com
E-mail: info@ditchwitch.com
BOXER Mini-Skids
Offering the Most Compact Tool Carriers with 12 Unique Models
History
Mertz Mfg. LLC has manufactured the BOXER line of compact utility loaders since 2000. In October 2009, Mertz Mfg. (Mertz) and Compact Power (CPI) separated businesses. Mertz retained ownership of the BOXER product line and CPI acquired the rental and service businesses from Mertz and was renamed Compact Power Equipment Centers, a rental play into Home Depot. CPI founder Roger Braswell introduced the Dingo Digging System from Australia into the United States in 2005 (later selling the rights to Toro). Braswell would found CPI in 2003, acquiring the rights to the BOXER brand of compact tool carriers.
Product Summary
BOXER Equipment currently offers 12 different machines to cater to the specific needs of the landscaper, demolition contractor, irrigation contractor, plumber, electrician, rental company and property owner as they dig, trench, till, auger, demo, place materials and perform dozens of other tasks. BOXER offers small (300 Series), medium (400 Series) and large (500 Series) machines in both Kubota diesel and Kohler gasoline engine options.
BOXER 118 (dedicated stand-on trencher): The BOXER 118 is available in either 24- or 36-in. boom lengths, weighing in at 1,632 and 1,652 lbs, respectively. This dedicated rubber track ride-on trencher can propel the 6-in. combo chain at 280 ft per minute and competes against walk-behind handlebar machines. Similar to other BOXER models, the 118’s controls are ergonomically designed for maximum operator comfort and function. The 118 produces only 2.9 psi of ground pressure, thereby minimizing damage to existing lawns and landscapes. With a width of 35 in., the 118 is compact enough to maneuver and trench in tight areas.
BOXER 320 and 322D (compact tool carriers): The 300 Series is BOXER’s smallest entry into the mini-skid market. The 300 Series has a tip capacity as high as 1,325 lbs and an operating capacity as high as 662 lbs at 50 percent tip load. At 34.5 in. wide, the compact 320 and 322D diesel have no problems getting into and out of tight areas.
BOXER 425D, 427 and 427W (compact tool carriers): The compact and powerful 400 Series is BOXER’s middleweight contender in the mini-skid arena. The 400 Series is available as tracked machines in either diesel or gasoline versions, with the 427W rounding out the series as the quick and nimble wheeled/gasoline version. The 400 Series is able to handle full-size attachments up to a 36-in. auger and a 48-in. trencher.
BOXER 530X and 532DX (compact tool carriers): The 500 Series is the largest mini-skid offered by the BOXER. Equipped with all the bells and whistles, this heavy hitter isn’t for the meek of heart. The 500s are the only mini-skids on the market that offer an integrated track system that retracts from a fully extended 43.5 to 35 in., allowing the unit to maneuver through tight areas with ease, then extend back to full width for increased stability while in operation. Additionally, the 500s have dual hydraulic circuits to operate more complex attachments such as a stump grinder or snow blower.
Advice to Buyers
“The compact utility loader excels on worksites with restricted access,” says Mark Myrick, international sales manager. “The contractor needs to evaluate what size restrictions most of his or her jobs have. Jobsites today are getting smaller and closer together. The mini-skid steer is best suited for many of the limited access work zones of today and the operator can quickly change between numerous attachments without having to get in and out of the cab of a ride-on machine. Most landscapers prefer the tracked units vs. a wheeled unit. The wheeled unit is slightly faster [4.5 mph vs. 3.5 mph] than the tracked units. However, wheeled units do not perform well in muddy conditions and tend to cause ruts or get stuck. Wheeled units have a hard time crossing trench lines for irrigation where tracked units do not. Tires can go flat where tracks do not. For these reasons, the tracked units are much more popular than the wheeled units with the landscape contractor.” RS#51 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Boxer Compact Tool Carrier Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 50%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
118 | NA | NA | 1,632-1,652 lbs (2.9 psi) | NA | 18 hp | NA | $12,498-$12,998 |
320 | 625 lbs | 1,250 lbs | 1,850 lbs (2.9 psi) | 8 gpm . | 20 hp | 70 in. | $14,998 |
322D | 663 lbs | 1,325 lbs | 1,900 lbs (3.3 psi) | 9.4 gpm | 22 hp | 70 in. | $17,998 |
425D | 900 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 2,450 lbs (3.7 psi) | 12.6 gpm | 25 hp | 70 in. | $22,998 |
427 | 900 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 2,354 lbs (3.6 psi) | 12.6 gpm | 27 hp | 70 in. | $17,998 |
427W | 875 lbs | 1,750 lbs | 1,850 lbs (3.5 psi) | 12.6 gpm | 27 hp | 69 in. | $16,498 |
530X | 825 lbs | 1,650 lbs | 2,513 lbs (3.4 psi) | 14.5 gpm | 30 hp | 76 in | $20,998 |
532DX | 1,050 lbs | 2,100 lbs | 2,671 lbs (4.2 psi) | 14.5 gpm | 32 hp . | 76 in | $23,998 |
* Varies depending on tire type and size.
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Contact Info
BOXER Equipment
P.O. Box 40
Fort Mill, SC 29716
Ph: (803) 802-1236
Fax: (803) 548-6456
Ramrod Mini-Skids
Ten Multi-Talented Machines from the Industry’s CTC Originator
History
June 2010 marks a milestone in the history of the compact tool carrier (CTC) in North America. It was 30 years ago that Ramrod Equipment introduced the first labor-saving mini-skid loader to the North American marketplace, thereby laying the cornerstone for the CTC category. Offering best-in-class performance in both walk-behind and stand-on machines, Ramrod mini-skids continue to help define the CTC category in terms of power, reliability and overall versatility. Ramrod Equipment is a division of the Canadian materials handling manufacturer Leon’s Mfg. Co. Inc., located in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, Canada.
Product Summary
From humble beginnings 30 years ago with the 500-lb operating capacity of the 230-AKG Series to the class-leading 1,150-lb operating capacity of the 1150-LKD, Ramrod continues to focus on both performance and innovation in the compact tool carrier category.
The company boasts 10 different Ramrod machines — from gasoline to diesel, narrow machine to normal width and single to dual pump hydraulics. In addition to the performance options, Ramrod offers multiple track or tire configurations so you can get the job done regardless of the terrain.
As important as the differences between the Ramrod machines are, so too are the similarities. All Ramrod mini-skids come standard with self-leveling loader arms to keep the load balanced, which not only increases productivity but significantly reduces the risk of operator injury from a load shifting and falling. The entire Ramrod line also features best-in-class dump angles (70 to 85 degrees), ensuring that when you empty the bucket, it’s empty.
If getting into tight areas is the job, look no further than the WB1500TX, measuring an incredibly narrow 31 in. across. Providing an unrivaled operating capacity of up to 1,500 lbs, the Ramrod WB1500TX will get the job done in places that other mini-skids only dream about going. If you need a compact tool carrier for tasks around your property, the greenhouse, the warehouse or the jobsite, the four-wheel drive Ramrod 905 and the tracked Ramrod 915 will give you the mini-skid power and tools needed to tackle multiple tasks and terrain. With up to 2,000 lbs of carrying capacity and access to more than 70 different quick-on/quick-off attachments, this unit boasts versatile power.
If you are a professional contractor or landscaper, Ramrod’s four-wheel drive 950 and tracked 1150 are the CTC machines you need to finish projects with muscle. Boasting the most push/pull tractive power in the Ramrod lineup (1,600 lbs), the most lift power (up to 1,150 lbs, 6 ft in the air) and the most carrying power (up to 2,300 lbs), the 1150 is truly a mighty mini.
Advice to Buyers
“Most people look at a CTC machine and wonder what they can do with it,” says James Turner, Ramrod’s business development manager. “We suggest that customers ask themselves what they can’t do with it. Much like the convenient hand-held multi-tool so many people own these days, mini-skid loaders are really hydraulically powered multi-tools, which you will continually find new and innovative ways for them to save you time and effort. Whether you are a homeowner or a contractor, time is money, so the more productive your time is, the more money you will make and save.” RS#52 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Ramrod Compact Tool Carrier Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 50%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
WB1500TX-G | 1,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,625 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 23 hp | 66 in. | $20,000 |
WB1500TX-D | 1,500 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,785 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 22 hp | 66 in. | $24,000 |
905-AKG | 930 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,800 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 23 hp | 72 in. | $21,000 |
905-LKD | 930 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,960 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 22 hp | 72 in. | $23,500 |
915-AKG | 930 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 2,100 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 23 hp | 72 in. | $22,250 |
915-LKD | 930 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 2,260 lbs | 11.4 gpm | 22 hp | 72 in. | $25,250 |
950-LKG | 950 lbs | 1,900 lbs | 1,973 lbs | 12 gpm | 27 hp | 72 in. | $25,000 |
950-LKD | 950 lbs | 1,900 lbs | 2,133 lbs | 12 gpm | 22 hp | 72 in. | $28,000 |
1150-LKG | 1,150 lbs | 2,300 lbs | 2,374 lbs | 12 gpm | 27 hp | 72 in. | $26,250 |
1150-LKD | 1,150 lbs | 2,300 lbs | 2,534 lbs | 12 gpm | 22 hp | 72 in. | $29,250 |
Contact Info
Ramrod Equipment
A Div. of Leon’s Mfg. Co. Inc.
P.O. Box 5002
135 York Rd. East
Yorkton, SK, Canada S3N 3Z4
Ph: (800) 667-1581
Fax: (306) 782-1884
Web: www.ramrodequip.com
E-mail: sales@leonsmfg.com
Toro Dingo Compact Utility Loaders
Six Models from the Lawn and Landscape Manufacturing Magnate
History
Toro has been manufacturing its Dingo compact utility loader line since 1997. The original design started in Australia and was brought to North America under a licensing agreement with Dingo Australia. From there, Toro began selling wheeled units in the United States and several foreign countries. The company later introduced its line of tracked compact utility loaders in 1999. The latest innovation to the Toro Dingo tracked compact utility loader line is the TX 427.
Product Summary
Toro offers six models of compact utility loaders. The lineup is broken into diesel and gas units, with both wheeled and tracked model options. The wheeled models are the 220 and 323. Toro tracked units include the TX 427 and TX 525 models. These small and versatile tool carriers are geared mainly toward the landscape, rental, demolition and agriculture industries.
The Toro Dingo 220 provides 3,000 psi and 14.8 gpm of hydraulic power to run more than 35 different attachments. It boasts enough hydraulic power to auger 30-in. holes or trenches 36 in. deep. It is built with a 20-hp Kohler gas engine and two different ground speeds (low or high) — low speed directs more hydraulic power to the attachment, and high speed directs more power to the wheels. The two-pump hydraulic system uses independent power to supply the attachment or the wheels (one pump supplies 10.8 gpm and the other pump 4 gpm).
The Dingo 323 compact utility loader is a bigger wheeled machine, designed for the landscape, irrigation, fencing and general utility markets. Like the 220, the Toro Dingo 323 is packed with 3,000 psi and 10.8 gpm of hydraulic power, two ground speeds and a two-pump hydraulic system, but it’s the 23-hp Kohler gas engine that sets it apart. The 323 also uses Toro’s 4-Paw independent four-wheel drive, which directs hydraulic flow and pressure to all the wheels at all times. Operators can power through tough ground conditions and reduce the likelihood of getting stuck without the use of chains.
Along with the wheeled units, Toro offers four tracked, walk-behind compact utility loaders in both narrow and wide track configurations. The new Toro Dingo TX 427 compact utility loaders possess the versatility to handle countless jobs on every site. Powered with a 27-hp Kohler gas engine, the TX 427 narrow track design provides an impressive low 5.1-psi ground pressure while the TX 427 wide track design has only a 3.4-psi ground pressure, making both units easy on turf. Equipped with a 25-hp Kubota diesel engine, the Toro Dingo TX 525 wide and narrow track units offers good ground engaging power and excellent digging and trenching capabilities while still capable of being delicate on turf.
Advice to Buyers
“Ask questions and demo the product in real life situations,” says Greg Lawrence, marketing manager, The Toro Co. “This will tell you whether you have the right product and right dealer. When you’re ready to start your decision process, you should start with the power-to-weight ratio. The weight is important when considering the potential damage it will do to the turf. And, the performance of the machine is determined by the power. Toro Dingo compact utility loaders boast the best power-to-weight ratio in the industry.” RS#53 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Toro Dingo Compact Utility Loader Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 50%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
Dingo 220 | 515 lbs | 1,030 lbs | 1,576 lbs (NA) | 10.8 gpm | NA | 91.2 in. | $13,048 |
Dingo 323 | 515 lbs | 1,030 lbs | 1,713 lbs (NA) | 10.8 gpm . | NA | 91.2 in. | $15,870 |
TX 427 | 765 lbs | 1,530 lbs | 2,006 lbs (5.1 psi) | 11.4 gpm | 20 hp | 90.1 in. | $20,283 |
Wide Track | |||||||
TX 427 | 765 lbs | 1,530 lbs | 2,186 lbs (3.5 psi) | 11.4 gpm | 20 hp | 90.1 in. | $21,318 |
TX 525 | 790 lbs | 1,580 lbs | 2,030 lbs (5.2 psi) | 13.8 gpm | 24 hp | 90.1 in. | $23,130 |
TX 525 | 790 lbs | 1,580 lbs | 2,127 lbs (3.4 psi) | 13.8 gpm | 24 hp | 90.1 in. | $24,165 |
Wide Track |
Contact Info
The Toro Co.
8111 Lyndale Ave. South
Bloomington, MN 55420-1196
Ph: (952) 888-8801
Fax: (952) 887-8258
Web: www.toro.com/dingo
E-mail: dingo@toro.com
Bobcat Mini Track Loaders
The King of Compact Machines Offers Two Versatile Compact Tool Carriers
History
Based in West Fargo, N.D., Bobcat Co. is an industry leader in the design, manufacturing, marketing and distribution of compact equipment. Long known for its line of skid steers, compact track loaders and compact excavators, Bobcat expanded its product line in 2002 to include mini track loaders or compact tool carriers. Ultra-narrow in size, the new machines were initially designed for landscapers who needed small, yet powerful machines that could slip easily through gates and doorways and also cross lawns and paved areas with little or no damage or disturbance. The new Bobcat mini track loaders quickly caught on with rental centers as well. They targeted do-it-yourself homeowners looking for machines that could dig, lift and move material and yet were easy to transport and simple to operate
Product Summary
In 2008, Bobcat introduced its B-Series mini track loaders. The updated models featured amenities like adjustable tilt steering to accommodate taller operators, more durable rubber tracks and engines that meet Tier 4 emissions requirements. In addition, the new models offer an auxiliary hydraulic continuous flow shutoff lever that shuts off a hydraulically operated attachment when the operator releases the lever or walks away from the machine.
Today, Bobcat offers two models of mini track loaders. The MT52 is just 36 in. wide and provides a rated operating capacity of 520 lbs. It has a travel speed of 3.5 mph in forward and 1.5 mph in reverse. The MT52 weighs 2,580 lbs with a standard bucket and has a ground pressure of just 5.2 psi. It is powered by a three-cylinder, 18.8-net hp liquid-cooled diesel engine.
The slightly larger MT55 is 35.6 in. wide with standard (narrow) tracks and is 41.2 in. with the optional wide track option and has a rated operating capacity of 550 lbs. It offers a 23.5-net hp, liquid-cooled diesel engine and has the same travel speed ranges as the MT52. The MT55 weighs 2,610 lbs with a standard bucket, yet has a ground pressure of only 4.9 psi with narrow tracks and 3.6 psi with the optional wide tracks. Both the MT52 and MT55 come standard with the Bob-Tach mounting system that makes it easy to hook up one of the more than 20 available attachments, including an angle broom, auger, backhoe, vibratory plow, pallet fork, soil conditioner, trencher, utility blade, landplane, hydraulic breaker, boring unit, tiller, snowblower and more.
For bigger jobs and when working in wet areas, an industry-exclusive optional ride-on platform hooks up in minutes. The platform pivots for a smooth ride and can be moved like a wheelbarrow when not installed. For operator safety, both units feature a reverse-travel stop panel on the rear of the machine that, when pushed in, returns the drive controls to neutral and stops the machine. Other standard safety features include: a parking brake; neutral start interlocks; lift arm and tilt lockout; and lift arm support.
Advice to Buyers
“Many buyers of mini track loaders or compact tool carriers already own a skid steer loader or compact track loader along with several attachments,” says John Heller, Bobcat mini track loader product specialist. “When you’re looking for a mini track loader, check to see if those attachments may work on both machines. You’ll save money while improving your productivity.” RS#54 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Bobcat Mini Track Loader Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 35%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
MT52 | 520 lbs | 1,600 lbs | 2,580 lbs (5.2 psi) | 12 gpm | 18.8 hp | 71.3 in. | $18,384 |
MT55 | 550 lbs | 1,705 lbs | 2,610 lbs (4.9 psi) | 12 gpm | 23.5 hp | 71.3 in. | $20,228 |
Contact Info
Bobcat Co.
250 E. Beaton Dr.
West Fargo, ND 58078-6000
Ph: (701) 241-8700
Fax: (701) 280-7845
Web: www.bobcat.com
Vermeer Compact Tool Carriers
A Quartet of Units from the Famous Iowa Equipment Manufacturer
History
Gary Vermeer was a simple man with an entrepreneurial spirit. He was obsessed with maximizing efficiency and finding solutions to reduce labor, so he started Vermeer Mfg. Co. more than 60 years ago — and his commitment lives on today as Vermeer continues Gary’s founding philosophy of developing innovative equipment solutions and product designs that help maximize efficiency and minimize labor. Vermeer introduced its first compact tool carrier model only a decade ago; yet has since earned the reputation as a leader in the category by incorporating features that enhance operational productivity and safety.
Product Summary
The Vermeer line of compact tool carriers includes four models — the S400TX, S600, S600TX and S800TX — with many common operational features, yet each is designed with varying capacities for completing a variety of specific tasks.
The compact size of the S400TX makes maneuvering in and out of tight spaces a breeze. The 23-hp engine offers a 15 percent increase over the competition, pumping more power into the hydraulic circuit for consistent operational performance. A high-mount sprocket track drive powers the rubber tracks, which have minimal operating ground pressure at 3.8 psi for the standard 7-in. track and 3 psi for the 9-in. track.
The S600 and S600TX models were designed for multiple applications with enhanced maneuverability and features that save time-intensive labor. Transport and boom bucket motion are controlled by two ergonomically designed joysticks while a handgrip enables operators to use the controls without losing their balance on rough terrain. This ride-on unit comes with a 14.5-in. spring-cushioned platform that keeps the operator out of mud and other debris and is high enough to enhance visibility.
The newest addition to the Vermeer compact tool carrier lineup is the S800TX. Armed with best-in-class loading capacity, the 35-hp S800TX has the power necessary to complete the rigorous demands of landscaping, hardscaping and utility installation projects. With a rated tip capacity of 2,400 lbs and SAE operating capacity of 840 lbs, the new Vermeer S800TX mini skid steer can efficiently lift and transport a large load of material in and around confined spaces. The hydraulic system of the S800TX is capable of providing 14 gpm for effectively powering more demanding attachments. Operators will appreciate the machine’s dedicated standup, ride-on design.
All Vermeer compact tool carriers are designed with a universal mounting plate that makes on-site attachment change-out easy.
Advice to Buyers
“There are a number of factors contractors should consider when looking to purchase a compact tool carrier,” says Jon Kuyers, utility product segment manager for Vermeer. “Consider the types of jobs and work to be completed most often and match the capabilities and limitations of different models to those jobs. Look into things such as the lift capacity of the unit to make sure it has the necessary reach for the types of jobs you will be performing. Another consideration is whether to select a gas- or diesel-powered unit. Contractors who use a lot of hydraulic attachments will find a diesel engine provides increased torque over the gas engine.” RS#55 For more information, go to www.ceunbound.com/info.
Vermeer Compact Tool Carrier Specifications | |||||||
Model | Operating Capacity (at 35%) | Tip Capacity | Operating Weight | Hydraulic Attachment Output | Engine Horsepower (Net) | Max. Lift Height | National MSRP |
S400TX | 500 lbs | 1,450 lbs* | 1,950 lbs** (3 psi) | 11.5 gpm | 23 hp | 69 in. | $17,500*** |
S600 | 600 lbs**** | 1,200 lbs* | 2,270 lbs** (21.3 psi) | 13.2 gpm | 30 hp (gas)
25 hp (diesel) |
80 in. | $19,000- $22,500*** |
S600TX | 500 lbs | 1,450 lbs* | 2,415 lbs** (4 psi – wide/5.5 psi – narrow) | 13.2 gpm | 30 hp (gas)
25 hp (diesel) |
80 in. | $19,900- $23,500*** |
S800TX | 840 lbs | 2,400 lbs* | 2,950 lbs (3.9 psi) | 14 gpm | 35.1 hp (diesel) | 84.5 in. | $28,700*** |
*Tip capacity based on 175-lb operator.
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**Gas engine model.
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***Prices will vary depending on options.
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****Rubber tire model. Operating capacity at 50%.
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Contact Info
Vermeer Mfg. Co.
1210 Vermeer Rd.
East Plant 6
Pella, IA 50219
Ph: (888) VERMEER
Fax: (641) 621-7680
Web: www.vermeer.com
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