Ditch Witch Compact Tool Carriers — 2016 Spec Guide
The SK752 and SK850 Mini Skid Steers Enhance Jobsite Productivity and Comfort
Ditch Witch, a Charles Machine Works Co., was founded in 1949 with the first mechanized, compact, service-line trencher. A longtime innovator in the underground construction industry, the organization leveraged this industry expertise and knowledge when entering the mini skid steer market. The construction-grade machines and accompanying attachments provide landscapers, contractors and renters the power and functionality needed for a variety of small to midsize projects, including utility, landscaping, plumbing and other underground construction tasks.
Designed to help landscapers and renters stay productive on any jobsite, the Ditch Witch SK752 and SK850 mini skid steers accept dozens of quick-connect attachments for a wide range of landscaping and underground construction tasks. With its 24.8-hp (18.5-kW) Kubota diesel engine — known for efficiency and low-maintenance — the SK752 wields impressive power for all machine functions. It also directs more power to the attachment than comparable models on the market, helping operators get the job done faster, says Ditch Witch.
Operators will gain a nearly 10 percent increase in operating capacity with the SK752 over similar models in its class. The machine has an 860-lb operating capacity and increased hinge-pin height to 83 in. for more efficient loading. The SK752 was designed with operator safety, visibility and comfort in mind. It features an ergonomic operator’s station with standard, dual-lever ground drive controls and an optional joystick. The machine’s large platform measures 74 sq in. with ground clearance that lets drivers work comfortably while maintaining good worksite visibility.
Equipped with a 37-hp Tier 4 Yanmar diesel engine, the SK850 is the most powerful of the Ditch Witch mini skid steers. The 29 hp of hydraulic power delivered to the attachment helps operators increase performance of numerous attachments for a variety of tasks. The SK850 also offers a comfortable operator station. Its 74-sq-in. platform provides operators increased comfort and stability while also providing a clear line of sight of the job at hand.
An exclusive, high-drive track system has bolt-on interchangeable sprockets and wide track rollers to ease maintenance and enhance track life. For long-lasting performance and maximized uptime, the machine also features a belt-free design and low-maintenance track-tensioning system. At the operator’s station, both mini skid steers enhance operator control with the two-way, auxiliary control foot pedal. The pedal lets operators maintain hydraulic flow to the attachment while keeping their hands free to control depth and ground speed.
Advice to Buyers
“Power is important. Comfort is what counts,” says Chris Thompson, Ditch Witch product manager for compact equipment. “When considering mini skid steers, you need to know how much power will get the job done. Once power is determined, consider the operator and whether fatigue will affect productivity. And time is money, so maintenance is also an important factor to help operators remain productive and enhance uptime. Choose a design that eases maintenance for rental centers, renters and landscapers, keeping the machine operating at maximum capacity for long hours on a job.”
