The Rules of Traction
Strong and steady should be the maxim of quality equipment. Powerful machines need good balance. Because the ability to dig, load, break and repair with mechanical speed and steely force is useless without engineering a safe and sure-footed work platform.
It’s a perception best encompassed in those stout and sturdy machines called compact track loaders. Powered by a robust diesel engine and a complex hydraulic system, a track loader can harness the energy to perform a multitude of tasks on the jobsite, using the exact same attachment plate as a skid steer (wielding dozens of unique implements from breakers to backhoes to buckets).
But unlike many wheeled machines, this power is harnessed and balanced on a dedicated track undercarriage. Rolling on rubber or steel tracks, compact track loaders can spearhead and navigate jobs with extra flotation and traction — especially in the wet weather spring months A dedicated undercarriage also gives added pushing power (great for dozing operations), yet dispenses the weight of the entire machine through multiple track contact points for a lighter footprint. Extra power, lower ground pressure and added flotation and traction, the advantages of compact track loaders have made these units one of the fastest growing machine markets in the industry.
Of course, strong and steady track loaders still have certain niches where they are popular — landscape, forest and construction jobs that need extra flotation, traction and pushing power (while still leaving a light footprint). Wheeled skid steers will always have their strong markets (especially when hard surfaces, cost of ownership or increased cycle times come into play), but we expect compact track loaders to continue to eat up market share in their specific applications.
From Bobcat to Mustang, over 10 manufacturers are producing or branding these dedicated track machines today. Which unit is the perfect piece of iron for your operations? To answer that question, CE details eight of the major track loader manufacturers and their product lines to discover exactly what each major manufacturer is offering (specs, product summaries and even prices) and begin to uncover the ideal track loader for your applications, jobsites and business model.
Keith Gribbins is managing editor of Compact Equipment, based in Peninsula, Ohio.
Bobcat Compact Track Loaders
A Series of Six Rubber Tracked Loaders from the Small Equipment Pioneer
History
Bobcat Co. has been a leader in compact equipment since it created the skid steer industry 50 years ago. In 1958, Melroe Mfg. Co., now known as Bobcat, forged a partnership with Cyril and Louis Keller, two blacksmith-inventor brothers who invented a small, three-wheeled loader for cleaning turkey barns. This partnership led to the Melroe self-propelled loader, the precursor to the skid steer loaders of today. Bobcat has continued to be a leader and innovator in the development of other types of compact equipment for the past 50 years. In 1999, Bobcat launched its first compact track loader, which was also the first American-made compact track loader with a solid-mounted undercarriage.
Products
Bobcat offers six compact track loader models. These machines offer operators increased productivity through superior pushing and digging performance. The range of the Bobcat line provides any operator with a compact track loader perfectly suited to meet his or her needs — from the T140, which is small enough to fit and work in the tightest jobsites, to the T320, which is a powerhouse for jobs that require muscle. The six Bobcat compact track loader models range from 46 to 92 SAE net hp and are available in widths from 55 to 80 in.
The Bobcat roller suspension system is the first system of its kind that uses an all-steel design and is the only suspension system with durable steel imbedded tracks that increase durability. The maintenance-free roller suspension system delivers a smooth ride and lasts longer in demanding environments because the Bobcat system does not use rubber or plastic parts. An enclosed steel undercarriage with few moving parts minimizes maintenance costs. The new roller suspension system is available as an option on Bobcat T250, T300 and T320 compact track loaders. The roller suspension system option will be available on other models later this year.
The heavy-duty roller suspension system is more durable because the components are built to last, says Bobcat. Ride-on forged steel rollers and high-strength steel leaf springs, reducing feedback from the ground to create a smooth ride. Steel imbedded tracks last long in tough applications, while delivering the needed power to the ground. This means the operator can go through harsh conditions, be in the field for long periods and spend less on undercarriage repair costs.
All Bobcat compact track loaders have exclusive, offset C-pattern rubber tracks with steel cables and imbeds that increase service life. The internal steel cables in the rubber tracks are similar to steel-belted radial tires. This gives the compact track loader a strong base to work on. Steel spiral-wound tracks withstand higher torque, allowing the compact track loader to put more power to the ground. The tracks do not stretch, keeping the compact track loader on the job for long periods.
Other options available on Bobcat compact track loaders include: a climate-controlled cab; deluxe instrumentation with keyless start to protect the machine from theft; ride control to increase the smoothness of the ride; sound reduction that decreases noise inside the operator compartment and outside the machine; and an extensive control pattern selection.
Advice to Buyers
“Before purchasing, contractors should operate the machines and attachments in actual working conditions,” says Greg Rostberg, marketing manager for Bobcat Co. “Test the machines to their limits under conditions that the machines are expected to work in. Look for products that maximize uptime utilizing heavy-duty construction and component protection. Make sure the equipment is easy to service. Also, do not forget the importance of attachment selection, quality and availability. Choosing the highest-quality attachments with the widest selection leaves your business open for future expansion.”
Contact Info
Bobcat Co.
P.O. Box 3064
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-9851
Ph: (866) 823-7898
Web: www.bobcat.com/CTL
Case Compact Track Loaders
Four New Models Improved with Second Generation Offerings
History
Case Construction Equipment’s heritage spans more than 165 years. Growing from innovative steam-powered machinery in the late 1800s, Case developed road-building equipment that helped create early 20th century streets and highways across the world. Today, Case is a full-line manufacturer, producing 15 lines of construction equipment. Case produces four models of compact track loaders. The company’s new, second-generation compact track loaders are the Case 400 Series 3. Case compact track loaders have evolved to be more productive, more comfortable, easier to operate and easier to service — and complement Case’s full-line product strategy.
Products
Clean-burning, Tier III certified engine power highlights the Case 400 Series 3 compact track loaders (420CT, 440CT, 445CT and 450CT). With engine improvements come increases in horsepower and torque across the board, with net horsepower for the lines ranging from 69 to 83 hp — up to a 53 percent increase in torque, depending on the model.
The new cabs available for all Case 400 Series 3 models feature increases in headroom and lap-bar width, along with improved forward, side, rear and overhead visibility. These compact track loaders also feature industry-exclusive side lighting standard, giving you 360-degree visibility when working after dark.
On the interior, a suspension seat, pilot controls, a new cushioned lap bar with arm rest and ergonomically designed control handles come standard, providing more comfort and space when operating the machines. Also standard on the machines are the headliner, back-up alarm and horn, foot rest, 12-volt power plug, storage tray and cup holder.
These Case compact track loaders feature improved oil and fuel filter access as well as a remote oil drain, which helps avoid spills and speeds up oil changes. A massive wide-fin, side-by-side radiator and oil cooler provides adequate cooling and is easy to service. All 400 Series 3 compact track loader models are built to start in colder temperatures. In fact, they are tested to start, unaided, at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-17 degrees Celsius). Single point daily service checks and an easy tilt ROPS make maintenance easy to perform.
The undercarriage on Case compact track loaders incorporates proven technology that assures durability while reducing operating costs. These technologies include: a tapered design for the frame cover and steel scrapers to keep mud and debris from damaging the track area; a rigid undercarriage system to keep maintenance costs to a minimum; easily adjusted track tension through a grease zerk; dual cone face seals to provide a reliable, long lasting seal for a significant decrease in operating costs over the life of the machine; and four tripe flange rollers, combined with single flange front and rear idlers, to maintain track alignment while operating on side slopes.
Advice to Buyers
“Contractors need to evaluate their business to be sure that they are buying equipment for future job opportunities,” says Jim Hughes, marketing manager at Case Construction Equipment. “Buying a machine with features that will help you expand what types of jobs you can do will not only help you land more jobs, it will also increase the resale value of your equipment when it’s time to trade it in. A highly-optioned machine will hold its resale value longer than a standard piece of equipment.”
Contact Info
Case Construction Equipment
700 State St.
Racine, WI 53404
Ph: (866) 542-2736
Fax: (262) 636-0876
Web: www.casece.com
Komatsu Compact Track Loaders
Two Track Machines from the Excavator Undercarriage Expert
History
In the 1960s, Komatsu first started marketing its construction equipment products in the United States. Then the company established its North American operations in 1970. More than 30 years later, Komatsu introduced the CK Series of track loaders in 2005 after extensive research and development involving its dozer and skid steer loader engineering groups. In 2007, the manufacturing plant in Newberry, S.C., was named the “Mother Plant” for Komatsu compact track and skid steer loaders with worldwide engineering and manufacturing responsibilities. This assignment ensures the correct emphasis and attention on a product mainly utilized in North America.
Products
Komatsu construction and mining technology is evident in the CK Series of compact track loaders. Hydraulic components are manufactured by Komatsu, specifically for the compact track loader line, resulting in well-matched components that work together in the most efficient and cost-effective manner. The compact track loaders are well equipped with standard features such as two-speed travel, auxiliary hydraulics, self-leveling, automatic power control (anti-stall) and pilot proportional joystick controls.
The large, comfortable operator’s cabin has easy-to-access steps and handholds to allow secure footing when entering and exiting the machine. Once inside, it is obvious the Komatsu engineers had the operator in mind. The pilot control joysticks are correctly positioned to the seat and armrest to allow effortless control without reaching or overextending the reach, enhancing control and reducing fatigue. An optional pattern change valve allows the operator to switch from ISO controls (single lever steering) to the optional pattern (two lever steering), matching the machine controls to the operator’s preference thereby improving productivity.
The operator’s station is equipped with foot and hand throttles, both within easy reach, allowing the operator to vary engine speed which saves fuel and optimizes control. All gauges are mounted in the lap-bar and are positioned in the line of vision with the bucket cutting edge.
The track system was designed to provide long life and excellent track retention. The five roller undercarriage supports the tracks evenly in rough conditions, allowing the weight to be transferred to the ground without stressing the rubber, which prolongs track life. The sprockets are easily changed or rotated which contributes to long life.
The three flange front idler provides double the amount of track retention as a single flange idler. It also supports the weight of the machine and its load on the outer flanges, transferring the weight to the rubber track. With single flange idlers on competitive machines, the weight is borne on the steel track-pins and result in idler and track-pin wear. In addition, the first of five lower rollers is connected on a sub-frame to the idler. This allows a short and constant distance between the idler and roller in an area prone to track deflection. Competitive units are seeing track deflection in this extended area.
Komatsu also strives to maintain its reputation of serviceability. The patented cab tilt system allows full access to every component, hose and fitting without the obstacles of panels, cross-members or other constraints. Komatsu is again exclusive in its extended lubrication intervals, says the company. Komatsu track loaders require greasing every 250 hours.
Advice to Buyers
“Match the machine to the job,” says Bob Beesley, product marketing manager with Komatsu’s Utility Division. “Attachments are a big consideration, so be sure the machine you purchase will be capable of powering the attachments you need to finish the job fast and within budget. Service and dealer support is paramount when making a purchase decision.”
Contact Info
Komatsu America Corp.
Utility Division
6416 Highway 219
Newberry, SC 29108
Ph: (803) 405-6526
Fax: (803) 405-6539
ASV Compact Track Loaders
The Undercarriage Innovator Markets Six Models and 25 Years of Experience
History
ASV was founded in 1983 by Gary Lemke and Edgar Hetteen in Marcell, Minn. Lemke was one of the top snowmobile dealers in the United States and Hetteen had founded Polaris Industries and Arctic Enterprises, the leading snowmobile manufacturers in the country. ASV began by designing and building machines that ran on a rubber track system. The track truck, a year-round all-terrain transport used by utility companies and ski resorts, was the first machine the company produced. In 1987, based on the success of the track truck, ASV engineers developed a compact construction machine with a track system that gives it enormous power and traction for digging, grading and earth moving. 2008 marks ASV’s 25th year of designing and manufacturing compact track loaders available worldwide.
Products
ASV currently has six compact track loaders on the market — the PT-30, PT-50, PT-60, PT-70, PT-80 and PT-100 — along with the ST-50 tracked utility vehicle. ASV has several models that are popular with customers, but the PT-50 has consistently been the company’s best-selling model. The PT-50 is the ideal machine for an extremely broad range of markets, ranging from construction and landscaping contractors to large property owners, hobby farmers, rental outlets and others.
New this year is the improved PT-60 from ASV, a high performance compact track loader with good power and versatility. Like all ASV machines, the PT-60 produces incredible traction and low ground disturbance. It features a patented suspended undercarriage and new two-speed drive motors. Refinements include faster travel speed, more upward visibility, new gauges, new metal case seals on idlers, new steel rear idler wheels and a new steel hood. A choice of general purpose, turf (smooth) or extreme terrain track options make the PT-60 ideal for virtually any application.
In today’s market there are only two choices in compact track loader undercarriage technology, say ASV officials — ASV undercarriage technology and rigid track technology. ASV technology includes several patents and is composed completely of proprietary designs. ASV’s technology can be divided into three important categories: contact points, internal drive and suspension. Contact points (bogie wheels), are what transfers the vehicle weight through the track into the ground. By having more contact points, more area of the track is transferring vehicle weight, thereby allowing much more traction.
Internal drive means that the sprocket design is the opposite of what you would see on a conventional steel chain and sprocket. Instead of the sprocket poking through the track to drive, the inside of an ASV track is comprised of molded rubber drive lugs, which mesh with the internal drive sprocket.
Suspension offers many benefits, including more traction, longer track and machine life due to less vibration. But most importantly, it makes for a much more comfortable and happy operator. ASV undercarriages feature two types of suspension: single level or dual level. On single level suspended undercarriages, the entire undercarriage is suspended from the chassis of the machine by torsion axles. On dual level suspended undercarriages, the same suspension system is used as on the single, but a second level is added. This second level allows the bogie wheels of the machine to flex as well, creating great ride comfort and traction.
Because the most important part of any machine is the operator, ASV machines have more features and built-in comfort than ever before. Moreover, the PT-80 cabin gives operators a new level of comfort and precision control. It includes new plush styling along with features that let you operate the PT-80 with ultimate comfort and productivity. Safety-related features include full ROPS/FOPS canopy, lap bar, comfortable seat belt and brake. An enclosed cab is also available with a sound insulation package.
ASV’s green turf tracks are optional on the PT-30, PT-50, PT-60 and ST-50. New extreme terrain tracks are currently available for the ASV PT-50 and PT-60 compact track loaders, and also the ST-50 tracked utility vehicle. The new extreme terrain tracks give machine users another option for higher performance in difficult ground conditions.
Advice to Buyers
“Consumers should know that not all compact track loaders are created equal. Because of this, consumers should consider renting a variety of compact track loaders before they purchase, and then choose the machine that gives them the most comfort, productivity and flexibility and meets their everyday needs,” says Rick Harris, ASV training manager. “Different manufacturers make different recommendations on use, and make different promises on performance — all stemming from the fact that the technology differs widely. As a result, what may be true for one manufacturer is not necessarily true for another.”
Contact Info
ASV Inc.
P.O. Box 5160
Grand Rapids, MN 55744
Ph: (800) 346-5954
Fax: (218) 327-9122
Web: www.asvi.com
E-mail: sales@asvi.com
Takeuchi Compact Track Loaders
Japan’s Track Trailblazer Brings Four Units to the North American Market
History
Takeuchi has been a pioneer in the rapidly developing compact equipment market in the United States for the past 29 years and continues to be a market leader within the industry. When Takeuchi entered the U.S. market in 1979 with the establishment of Takeuchi U.S., the company was one of the first to introduce the compact excavator into the marketplace. In response to some unique requirements of equipment owners, Takeuchi began looking at developing other new products, and in the late 1980s developed one of the world’s first compact rubber track loaders. Soon Takeuchi introduced the TL26 to the United States, transforming the North American construction equipment market. This eventually led to the introduction of the TL150 in 1999 to help meet the role of a larger machine for loader chores. The TL130 and TL140 soon followed, each offering further refinements in durability, operator comfort and features that make the machine more productive.
Products
In 2008, the industry brings exciting changes in the world of compact track loaders, and Takeuchi is no exception. The introduction of the new TL220, TL230, TL240 and TL250 brings together some of the best in durability, operator comfort, productivity, efficiency and environmental cleanliness. While other manufacturers use a bolt on undercarriage on a modified skid steer frame, Takeuchi uses an undercarriage that incorporates a welded track frame mounting system and multiple structural cross members integrated into the framework of the machine.
Takeuchi also uses double reduction planetary drive motors to create enormous power and the permanently sealed steel track rollers use precision metal, face floating seals to survive in the most unforgiving environments. The company’s unique track design uses a continually wrapped steel cable and roller contact pads, integrated into the forged steel drive mandrels, resulting in some of the toughest tracks in the industry, says the company.
Many features complement all four Takeuchi track loaders. Some of these standard features are two-speed travel, adjustable suspension seat, backup alarm and pressure releasing flat face hydraulic couplers. New features for the TL200 Series include a progressive slide switch for the auxiliary hydraulics that allows effortless control of hydraulic attachments and a 14-pin accessory connector with push button control that expands the attachment possibilities of the machine and provides more productivity for you and your business. Pilot operated joysticks allow for hours of fatigue-free, precision operation. For superior bucket control, the company equipped the TL200 Series with bucket self-leveling, bucket float and a new easy-to-operate bucket float detent system for the TL230, TL240 and TL250.
An optional enclosed cab is available on all four models and is the largest operator’s compartment in its class, according to Takeuchi. Cabin amenities include: a large capacity air conditioning and heater for added comfort and a large open frame door for easy access and visibility. Cab equipped models also come standard with a new hydraulic universal bucket quick-hitch that allows for fast and easy attachment changes from the comfort of the cab. Open canopy models are equipped with a heavy-duty manual quick-hitch and the hydraulic version is available as an option.
Advice to Buyers
“When shopping for your next track loader, arrange an onsite demonstration of several machines side by side,” says David Steger, national product and training manager. “This allows you to compare each machine equally in your actual working conditions. If practical, it’s also a good idea to use the same bucket for each machine during the demo to reduce the number of variables that effect performance and allows you to compare things like breakout force and visibility.”
Contact Info
Takeuchi Mfg. (U.S.) Ltd.
519 Bonnie Valentine Way
Pendergrass, GA 30567
Ph: (706) 693-3600
Web: www.takeuchi-us.com
John Deere Compact Track Loaders
Two Dedicated Rubber Track Models from the Agricultural Trendsetter
History
John Deere was founded in 1837 and has grown from a one-man blacksmith shop into a worldwide corporation that today does business in more than 160 countries and employs approximately 43,000 people. John Deere consists of three equipment operations (Agricultural, Commercial and Consumer and Construction and Forestry), credit operations and four support operations (parts, power systems, technology services and health care). It is one of the oldest industrial companies in the United States. John Deere entered into the compact construction equipment business with a focused business unit called Commercial Worksite Products (CWP) in 1999 with a modest four model introduction of Deere designed and manufactured skid steers. In the past 10 years, the CWP product line has evolved and grown to a 16-unit lineup that includes over 100 Work Site Pro attachments.
Products
John Deere offers two compact track loaders in the industry today — the CT322 and CT332. John Deere compact track loaders are not just skid steers with tracks; these units use a heavier, stronger, more robust structure to handle the additional loads a track loader will encounter. Larger coolers (hydraulic and engine) are also used, due to the higher engine load factors and higher transmission pressures that are generated.
These units use larger fuel tanks to ensure a full day’s operation under the higher engine load factors. Loader linkage is optimized to deliver industry leading breakout forces to ensure the proper match with the increased tractive efforts track loaders deliver.
From an undercarriage standpoint John Deere compact track loaders represent the next generation. These models deliver an ultra-durable track system with all steel rollers, idlers and sprockets employing the same design technology as Deere’s industry leading 450 H dozers. A robust, four-planet planetary final drive delivers the superior torque to the tracks while at the same time evenly distributing the shock loads. In addition, Deere offers both single-speed and two-speed transmission models.
Fast and smooth, John Deere track loaders offer speed and power. This is accomplished by double flange idlers and rollers allowing the flanges to ride on the rubber track not the track cross links or steel pads like the competition. The customer should check track tension once every 50 hours which takes only minutes to complete.
Deere introduced joystick controls in 2008. With this introduction of Electro-Hydraulic (E-H) joystick controls for its large-frame skid steers and largest compact track loader, John Deere now offers a wide variety of control patterns. Push-button auxiliary hydraulics are standard and feature a thumb roller for easy control of attachments. The thumb roller provides a “dial-a-flow” effect, with a virtually infinite number of speed settings for any attachment. A horsepower management system allows the operator to channel all the power required for continuous operation of the boom and bucket without the power loss seen on competitor pilot control systems. A foot throttle accelerator pedal lets the operator set the hand throttle at a low rpm and only use the pedal for periodic speed or power bursts.
Advice to Buyers
“When considering a compact track loader purchase, don’t discount the role dealer support plays during the lifetime of your machine,” says Gregg Zupancic, product marketing manager for John Deere’s worldwide Construction and Forestry. “Pick a manufacturer with a stable, nationwide dealer network that stocks vital parts on the premises. Make sure their service technicians are certified and well-trained, having attended schools and seminars put on by the very manufacturer of the unit you’re evaluating.”
Contact Info
John Deere Construction and Forestry
1515 5th Ave.
Moline, IL 61265
Ph: (309) 765-8000
Fax: (309) 765-3275
Web: www.johndeere.com
Gehl Compact Track Loaders
A Quartet of Rubber Track Machines from the Midwest’s Small Equipment Master
History
With roots dating back to 1859, Gehl Co. is a producer of high-quality capital goods. It has targeted two principal market sectors worldwide with its equipment: agriculture and light industrial construction applications. It has growing market positions in each of these two large industries — one essential to the world’s food supply and the other to its transportation and shelter needs. In 1986, Gehl aggressively moved into the light construction equipment market as it established a separate construction sales division. Gehl serves small contractors, sub-contractors and owner-operators with dirt, lifting and paving equipment. With the rapid growth of the compact track loader market, Gehl added dedicated track loaders to its product offerings in 2002. Currently Gehl offers four models that range from 51 hp and 1,800 lbs of rated operating capacity to 92 hp and 3,500 lbs of rated operating capacity.
Products
With the recent introduction of the model CTL55 compact track loader, Gehl provides a broad selection of four models designed to master any jobsite challenges. The newest addition, the CTL55, boasts a compact 58-in. width, making it the ideal machine for operation on even the most confined of jobsites.
The models CTL65, CTL75 and CTL85 received new Tier III EPA-certified engines this year with increased horsepower. Two models (CTL75 and CTL85) have turbocharged engines with high-flow hydraulic options. Across the product line, with operating capacities from 1,779 to 3,528 lbs (based on 50 percent of tipping load) and operating weights from 6,129 to 11,214 lbs, these new machines are designed to fit any operation’s needs and offer greater productivity.
The dedicated undercarriages on Gehl compact track loaders are designed to perform well on any terrain. The elevated planetary final drives provide efficient and durable transfer of power to the tracks. Plus, the rigid undercarriage provides better power to the ground for enhanced pushing and tractive capabilities.
Serviceability is a snap on these units too. On each model the tilt-back ROPS/FOPS structure quickly and easily reveals internal components. The engine cover and rear door open for direct access to the engine, air cleaner and more. And the radiator and hydraulic cooler swing out for excellent rear engine access.
Gehl compact track loaders offer many unique features, starting with the largest operator’s compartment in the industry, according to Gehl. With the six-way, high-back full-suspension seat, operators will have more comfort in a Gehl track loader. Adding to operator comfort, new control handles allow for easier operating, with the ability to control powered attachments with the proportional auxiliary hydraulics control. All Gehl compact track loaders feature full pilot-control joysticks as standard equipment; an outstanding feature that provides minimal control efforts for driving the loader and operating the lift arm and attachment.
With the new standard foot throttle, combined with the hand throttle, the operator can raise the bucket faster and have higher ground speeds when needed, and then allow the engine to run slower when full power is not needed, to conserve on fuel and operate quieter.
Advice to Buyers
“When looking at a track loader, look at its undercarriage — this is the meat and potatoes of the machine,” says Kirk Dilly, Gehl product and training specialist. “Does the undercarriage clean itself or does it continually regurgitate the dirt and rocks and mud that you’re operating in? Do the idler wheels look like they’re heavy enough to take years of heavy use, or do they look like they will probably need to be replaced in a year or two? These are all issues that can add to the operating costs of the machine.”
Contact Info
Gehl Co.
143 Water St.
P.O. Box 179
West Bend, WI 53095
Ph: (262) 334-9461
Fax: (262) 334-6689
Web: www.gehl.com
Caterpillar Multi Terrain Loaders
Five Track Loaders from the World’s Largest Manufacturer of Earth Moving Equipment
History
Since its inception over 80 years ago, Caterpillar has grown to be the world’s largest maker of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. Caterpillar introduced its line of multi terrain loaders in 2001, following the successful launch of the Cat skid steer loader line in 1999. The expansion of the Caterpillar compact equipment product line coincided with the rapid expansion of the Cat Rental Store across North America. The multi-terrain loader line, manufactured in the same North Carolina plant where Cat skid steer loaders are made, employs the upper works of the Cat skid steer loaders. The line now includes the third generation of rubber tracked machines with suspended undercarriages, the C-Series, which includes three machines. Two smaller B2 Series machines join the C-Series to comprise the five-machine product line.
Products
Three new Caterpillar C-Series multi terrain loaders, the 277C, 287C and 297C, were introduced last year, focusing on performance and operator comfort in their size classes. The machines feature a new undercarriage designed for maximum durability, easy maintenance and superior ride. A choice of single or dual level undercarriage suspension is available on all three models and a two-speed option is available for fast movement around large sites.
The new loaders also set new standards in machine control with features such as electro-hydraulic joystick control of the hydrostatic drive system and electronic torque management for smooth operation and high productivity.Operator comfort, too, reaches new levels with features such as an optional sealed and pressurized cab and an optional air suspension seat. Additional options, such as High Flow XPS hydraulics on each of the models, expand versatility and enable customers to equip C-Series machines with a myriad of high-flow attachments.
The C-Series multi terrain loaders extend the Caterpillar line. The 297C is the largest capacity machine of its type that Caterpillar has ever produced. The vertical lift 297C is joined by the 287C, which also features vertical lift for enhanced truck loading capabilities. The 277C has radial lift linkage.
The advanced undercarriage design focuses on durability and reliability; it is an OEM product from track loader pioneer ASV. Tapered roller bearings and heavy-duty metal face seals on idlers and bogies help ensure long life. The 18-in. wide rubber tracks now feature three rows of lugs, which create a larger area for the track to engage with the guide system. The additional row of lugs enhances guiding when working on side slopes. Also, the track tensioning system has been simplified, which allows quicker and easier adjustments.
C-Series machines deliver greater lift and tilt forces when compared to equivalent B-Series models. Hydraulic cylinders are strategically placed to maximize lifting capability. The result is aggressive digging performance and solid lifting performance for superior productivity in all types of tasks.
Advice to Buyers
“Consider your hydraulic power needs when purchasing or renting compact loaders,” explains Mark Sprouls, editorial services for Caterpillar. “High-flow, high-pressure hydraulic systems are available on the market — like Caterpillar’s High Flow XPS. The option enables customers to equip machines for use with work tools requiring high flow and pressure, such as landscape rakes and cold planers.”
Contact Information
Caterpillar Inc.
100 N.E. Adams St.
Peoria, IL 61629
Ph: (309) 675-1000
Web: www.cat.com
Mustang Track Loaders
Four Track Loaders Deliver on Lasting Commitment to Equipment Operators
History
Starting with agricultural machinery production in the mid-1800s, Mustang Mfg. Co. has evolved into a manufacturer of a full line of compact equipment to meet the needs of the construction and landscape industries. In 1965, Mustang introduced its first rubber-tire skid steer loader. By 2008, the company had expanded its offerings to include eight skid steer loaders, 11 compact excavators, eight telescopic handlers, four all-wheel-steer loaders and four compact track loaders.
Products
Mustang first added track loaders to the product mix in 2002 with the introduction of models MTL16 and MTL25. Two years later, the MTL20 came into the mix. At this year’s CONEXPO-CONAGG trade show, the most compact unit within the line, the MTL312, made its appearance. Each of these heavy lifters offers maximum power with minimum ground pressure, making them ideal for off-the-road jobsites. Although the equipment can have many different uses, it most often benefits professionals in the landscaping and construction industries.
This machinery offers contractors a jump-start on projects in the spring and an extended window of opportunity to work in the fall. Rental yard, light construction and landscaper operations often call upon the assistance of the MTL312 and MTL16. For extra power, general contractors, erosion control contractors and septic contractors select the MTL20 as their track loader of choice. And for the largest of jobs, the MTL25 makes life easier for site preparation contractors and building contractors. Rain-soaked ground no longer stands between them and a completed project.
This team of track loaders operates on the support of specifically engineered undercarriages, which push the industry standard for toughness with strong steel channels connecting the loader frame to the undercarriage with no exposed hoses. Because these models do not include retrofitted skid steer frames, they have no flex in the area where the carriage system meets the main chassis. This means extra integrity, reliability and power to push the heaviest of material.
Another feature that sets Mustang apart in the field is operator comfort. Not only do the track loaders offer some of the largest operator compartments in the industry, but they provide for optional superior climate control. Mustang has also upgraded its air conditioning and heater system to provide optional pressurized cabs in all four of the current compact track loader models.
Mustang makes it easy to harness the power of its mighty team of track loaders to complete the toughest of jobs. Pilot-style controls allow operators to direct the movements of the unit solely with their left hand and the load arm/bucket with their right hand. Or if preferred, a “Dual Hands” option permits workers to control movements of the loader with both joysticks. All four units feature excellent hydraulic flow, providing for effective operation of any attachment, including high torque augers, large brooms and a number of landscaping attachments.
Proper operation remains a priority for Mustang, so every unit has detailed instructions on how to maintain track loaders based on hours of use. Safety is another priority, as the cabs have a seat belt and restraint bar for the operator’s protection. With 275 dealers throughout the United States, Canada and in 39 countries encircling the globe, Mustang remains a trusted, lasting source for quality track loaders.
Advice to Buyers
“Customers should come into the sales process with a clear idea of how they will use the track loader and why they need it,” says Kelly Moore, Mustang product manager. “You want to purchase the equipment that will offer the most options for the best value. Ask yourself, how your business will benefit from owning a certain track loader model? Also compare the capital investment and operational costs of a track loader and a skid loader. Their per-hour operational costs are different and should play a role in your decision.”
Contact Info
Mustang Mfg. Co.
1880 Austin Rd.
Owatonna, MN 55060
Ph: (800) 562-5870
Fax: (507) 451-8209
Web: www.mustangmfg.com
E-mail: info@mustangmfg.com
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