ASV Skid Steers Summarized — 2021 Spec Guide
Seasoned Track Loader Manufacturer Also Offers Robust Skid Steers
ASV introduced its line of skid steer loaders in 2011. Each model was designed from the ground up as a skid steer loader, yet the line shares many of the same field-proven components and design features as ASV’s long-running line of compact track loaders.
The ASV skid steer loader line includes the MAX-Series RS-75 (radial) and VS-75 (vertical). ASV’s new MAX-Series lineup provides premium 360-degree visibility, featuring a floor-to-ceiling glass area made possible by all clear sides and a frameless door. This gives the operator 52 percent more glass area in the optional enclosed cab compared to previous ASV models. Operators can work in comfort with the new optional fully suspended, fully adjustable seat. A roomier cab includes up to 2 more in. width at the shoulders, 8 in. more width at the knees and up to 4.5 in. of extra foot room. The cab also features available Bluetooth radio, improved speakers and an optional new, state-of-the-art 7-in. touchscreen display. Operators will see more ease of use as a result of improved, intuitive switch locations and operator controls. Additionally, the MAX-Series includes standard LED lighting and the industry’s first skid steer roof escape hatch.
The RS-75 and VS-75 share some of the time-proven powertrain, hydraulic and operator station components as their track loader counterparts but are purpose-designed as skid steer loaders for optimal balance and tipping load. The 75-hp RS-75 includes a 2,600-lb rated operating capacity and a 5,845-lb breakout force. The vertical-lift VS-75 features a 5,920-lb breakout force and an impressive 3,500-lb-rated operating capacity for its 75 hp. The VS-75’s high capacity rivals many 95- to 100-hp units, giving operators the ability to have the fuel economy and reduced price of a lower horsepower machine but the performance of some of the largest skid steers out there.
Both machines offer a single-speed auxiliary hydraulic system for use with a wide range of attachments. Each machine has 10.5 in. of ground clearance, more than 2 in. higher than similarly sized skid steers, notes the company. The RS-75 and VS-75’s purpose-built chassis also allows for a 24-degree departure angle that enables the units to push up on higher grades without bottoming out.
A high-performance cooling package includes side-by-side engine and hydraulic oil coolers that keep the machine operating at full load, even under high ambient temperatures. ASV also offers optional two-speed auxiliary hydraulics. The RS-75 and VS-75 lead the industry in serviceability, says ASV. The swing-out door and cooling system open quickly to expose the engine, filters and other daily checkpoints for easy maintenance. ASV includes drain plugs on all service items to speed the draining process. Zerk fittings on the end of all pins make greasing easy. Standard metal-face seals ensure the drive hubs don’t require maintenance for the life of the machine.
Advice to Buyers
“Buyers searching for a new skid steer should naturally match it to the applications and attachments they plan to use with it, but they should also consider visibility and safety,” says Buck Storlie, ASV product line manager. “More so than compact track loaders, skid steers are often used in indoor settings and tight quarters. Look for a machine with a lot of glass area all around the cab to enable confident, safe operation even in limited spaces. This is also beneficial in open air jobsites while moving around or while loading trucks with the bucket in the air.”
