Equipment Introductions

These pages feature some of the latest equipment available. You’ll find a solid sampling of both new machines and models that have been recently revamped by the manufacturers. For more information on these products, simply visit www.ForConstructionPros.com and include the eight-digit code shown.

Magni

TH Telehandler Range

The TH range of telehandlers includes six 75- and 100-kW models with high-tensile steel booms that increase load capacities. The booms include an automatic attachment system, plus the TH 6.20 and TH 5,5.24 models offer a side-shift system (+/- 5°). All models offer four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering. The stabilizers provide the ability to pivot, deploy quickly and provide a stable position with an auto-leveling system. For added stability, the axles include a leveling system with +/- 8° of adjustment to enable work on irregular terrain. Power is provided by Deutz Stage V/Tier 4 Final engines. An electronic management system selects the best engine speed for the hydraulic power required. www.forconstructionpros.com/21232620

JLG

40- and 47-ft. RT and ERT Scissor Lifts

The 40- and 47-ft. 4069 and 4769 RT (rough terrain) and ERT (electric rough terrain) scissor lifts have platforms that deliver 28% more working area, zero-platform offset and an 800-lb. capacity to carry more to height. They can be driven fully elevated, both indoors and out. The RT models are available in 2WD and 4WD configurations, while the ERT models are available in 2WD. LiftSense technology shows the maximum height that can be achieved based on side-to-side and frontto-back tilt and weight in the platform prior to elevation. The rails fold easily and can be collapsed in three minutes or less. The ANSI A92.20/ CSA B354-compliant lifts include a load-sensing system that can be calibrated without weight. www.forconstructionpros.com/21614931

Husqvarna

DM 200 Handheld Core Drill

Wacker Neuson

SM100 Utility Track Loader

Powered by a 24.7-hp Yanmar turbocharged diesel engine, the SM100 has a 1,000-lb. rated operating capacity at 35% of its 2,857lb. tipping load. The optimized radial lift path enables a hinge pin height of 85.7 in. The undercarriage includes standard 9-in.-wide tracks and triple-flanged rollers. The large, spring-suspended operator platform with ergonomic padding offers comfort and stability. An operator presence system prevents accidental movement of lift arm and travel functions when the operator steps off the platform. The unit’s 35.5-in. width allows access in confined spaces and 3,300-lb. weight enables easy transport. www.forconstructionpros.com/21808651

The 2.3-hp DM 200 D-handle drill motor can be used for handheld drilling of holes from 1 to 3 in. A special sealing system allows for water supply and vacuum extraction, enabling both wet and dry drilling. The casing is made of impact-proof polyamide plastic with a ball valve coupling for wet drilling and a vacuum coupling for dry drilling. Oil bath gear lubrication and an aluminum gearbox casing ensure durability. The operator and drill motor are protected by an overload clutch, while intelligent engine electronics automatically alert the operator if the overload threshold is exceeded. Two integrated levels enable exact horizontal and vertical working positioning. www.forconstructionpros.com/21627838

Atlas Copco

E-Air V1100 VSD Air Compressor

The E-Air V1100 VSD is a single-stage, oil-injected, rotary screw-type air compressor powered by a ruggedized Danfoss electric motor offering zero emissions and low noise levels, while providing a maximum of 1,100 cfm at 100 psi. The PACE regulation system coupled with the intuitive XC4004 controller enable multiple pressure and flow settings from 72.5 to 203 psi. The fully automatic 100% stepless speed regulator adapts motor speed to air demand. The dedicated cooling chamber includes a VSD fan motor for better cooling performance. The frame and canopy include ASTM A653 Zincor steel plate with a powder-coat paint finish for corrosion protection. The unit comes skid or trailer mounted. www.forconstructionpros.com/21771672

Super Products

Mud Dog 700 Vacuum Excavator

The Mud Dog 700 combines pressurized water with an industrialstrength vacuum in one mobile unit. An optional compressed air package is available. The water system includes an 11-gpm, 3,000psi pump, 600-gal. water capacity and 100 ft. of 1/2-in. hose reel capacity. The 8-in. positive-displacement vacuum system offers 3,100 cfm and has an industrial tapered cyclone externally mounted with a large 16-in. clean-out door. An 8-in.-diameter extendable boom has 18 ft. of reach and 270° boom rotation. The 7-cu.-yd. debris body includes a dump unloading system that has a 50° dump angle with the capability to dump into a 48-in. box container. www.forconstructionpros.com/21771986

Trimble

Autonomous Robotic Scanning Solution

The Trimble X7 3D laser scanner and FieldLink software are available fully integrated with Boston Dynamics’ Spot Enterprise robot to facilitate autonomous operation using the robot’s unique capabilities to navigate challenging, dynamic and potentially unsafe environments. The autonomous workflow uses fully integrated Spot robot controls in FieldLink software to create a predefined path of waypoints for Spot to follow and collect laser scans. Data collection missions can be scheduled to run on a regular and consistent basis for design validation and progress reporting, and enable real-time, as-built data analysis in both the field and office. A ruggedized tablet controller and integrated self-charging docking station are included. www.forconstructionpros.com/21784253

Hyundai

HX160AL Mid-sized Excavator

The HX160AL has a 152-net-hp Cummins-B4.5 Stage V-compliant diesel engine with a new emissions system featuring a DPF that incorporates passive regeneration, eliminating the need for exhaust gas recirculation. The integrated Intelligent Power Control mode and improved RCV levers enable finer, more precise control and less operator fatigue. The lift mode provides precise control by simultaneously controlling and maintaining power/speed throughout the lift cycle. An auto safety lock prevents unintended hydraulic operation. The optional All Around View Monitoring (AAVM) system provides a 360° aerial view around the machine and can be coupled with Intelligent Moving Objects Detection (IMOD). www.forconstructionpros.com/21784627

Bobcat

Expanded R2-Series Excavator Line

The 25-hp E32, 25-hp E35 and 33-hp E35 have 7,403-, 7,659- and 7,893-lb. operating weights and dig depths of 121.2 in. The 33-hp E35 comes with a redesigned Bobcat engine offering simplified routine maintenance, improved cold weather operation and convenient maintenance and service. All models include low-effort joysticks and a new hydraulic control valve that offer improved metering, movement and controllability. Advanced hydraulic controls allow operators to seamlessly swing the boom while operating an attachment without sacrificing power. The spacious cab is available with optional automatic heating and A/C, high-back and heated seat with headrest and 7-in. touch display. www.forconstructionpros.com/21796968

Milwaukee Tool

M18 FUEL 1 1/8-in. SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with ONE-KEY

The M18 FUEL 1 1/8-in. SDS Plus Rotary Hammer with ONE KEY features the POWERSTATE brushless motor delivering 3.6 ft.-lbs. of impact energy, 800 rpm and 4,600 bpm to provide speed and power in demanding applications. When paired with an M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT XC6.0 Battery Pack, the hammer can drill up to fifty 5/8” x 3” holes per charge. REDLINK PLUS Intelligence ensures maximum performance and protects from overload, overheating and over-discharge. AUTOSTOP Kickback Control prevents over-rotation in case the tool binds up when drilling into rebar or hard aggregate. An AVS Anti-Vibration System minimizes vibration for maximum comfort. www.forconstructionpros.com/21614959

Backhoe-loaders are multi-taskers that combine the capabilities of two machines into one attachment-friendly piece of equipment. Here’s a look at models available in North America from leading suppliers, plus some of the features designed to ease operation and enhance operator performance. To learn more about a particular brand or model, use the URL shown. Also be sure to visit the interactive version of this spec guide at www.ForConstructionPros.com/specguide/backhoe-loader to sort and compare models and specs based on your specific requirements.

CASE CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

Case N Series backhoes feature a PowerBoost (on Super N models) that provides a temporary surge of up to 8% more breakout force without decreasing rpms. An available Comfort Steer option reduces lock-to-lock rotations on the steering wheel when moving from fullright to full-left, reducing operator fatigue in high-production applications. The backhoes also feature ProControl, a swing dampening system that improves cycle times, provides greater precision and reduces fatigue. www.forconstructionpros.com/10072356

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

580 Super N 97 17,269 14' 4" 14,452 .85-1.29 10,947 580 Super N WT 110 20,077 14' 5" 15,070 1.00-1.50 10,873 580N 90 16,589 14' 8" 11,517 .85-1.29 10,622 580N EP 74 15,795 14' 11" 11,517 .85-1.29 9,607 590 Super N 110 20,532 15' 5" 15,853 1.00-1.50 12,776

KUBOTA

The Kubota L47 and M62 incorporate the HST Plus transmission, which automatically controls the hydrostatic pump and drive motor, giving the operator optimal performance. The IntelliPanel on these models provides vital machine information to keep the TLB in peak working condition for maximum productivity. In addition, Backhoe Crawling mode saves the operator time when repositioning during backhoe operation. It allows the operator to creep forward or backward and reposition the machine while remaining at the backhoe controls. www.forconstructionpros.com/10073594

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

B26TLB 24.3 4,001 8' 3.5" 4,210 .34 2,343 L47TLB 47.1 7,205 10' 5,825 .57 4,531 M62TLB 63 8,925 14' 2.4" 6,572 .87 5,992

JOHN DEERE

The 310L, the latest generation of the original model, remains a cornerstone within the John Deere backhoe lineup as a result of the continuous improvement to the design and efficient performance. Additional models such as the 310SL and 310L EP continue to advance to meet changing customer needs. As a commitment to the next generation of backhoe-loaders, the company has begun joint testing its first-ever battery electric backhoe-loader with National Grid. www.forconstructionpros.com/10073480

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

310L EP 69 13,822 13' 8" 10,844 1.00-1.25 9,564 310L 100 14,669 14' 1" 10,844 1.00-1.25 9,512 310SL 103 15,872 14' 3" 12,356/13,634* 1.12-1.31 10,541 310SL HL 113 16,571 15' 1" 15,723/17,349* 1.12-1.31 10,598 315SL 103 17,554 13' 5" 12,361 1.00-1.31 10,608 410L 116 17,786 15' 11" 15,723/17,350* 1.31-1.50 10,361 710L 148 25,588 17' 3" 17,622/18,959* 1.31-1.87 16,539

*Lift mode

NEW HOLLAND CONSTRUCTION

New Holland Construction’s smallest loader-backhoe, the B75D, redefines the economy class with features found in bigger models, like an ample interior, 360˚ visibility, two-door access and a roll-up rear window. With a simple, cost-effective Tier 4 Final solution, the 74-hp FPT 3.4-liter engine features a diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) for increased fuel efficiency and faster response times. No fluids to add or diesel particulate filters to replace means simplified maintenance. www.forconstructionpros.com/10072472

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

B75D 68 18,298 14' 12,598 1.3 13,779 B95C 95 17,506 14' 6" 12,933 1.1 14,253 B110C 108 18,525 15' 6" 12,969 1.3 12,253

VF-VENIERI

VF Venieri (Ranko Equipment) has the only articulated multifunctional BHL available. It is more than a backhoe-loader, it is two machines in one. It combines an articulated front loader with Z-bar kinematics and a power excavator on the back with the carry-on system (four wheels equal size drive). All models are powered by a hydrostatic transmission that enables a 25-mph platform that can do a wide variety of tasks by utilizing various attachments on the front and rear. www.forconstructionpros.com/21015993

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

VF 1.33B 52 8,800 9'-10' 7" 5,730 .5 5,600 VF 8.23F 106 18,700 15' 1"-17' 8" 10,050 1.4 15,200 VF 10.33C 106 20,700 15' 8"-17' 8" 12,120 1.7 20,060 VF 10.23D 106 21,900 16' 4"-19' 8" 13,450 1.7 23,800

SANY AMERICA

SANY America’s new SLB95 backhoe-loader is an all-around reliable workhorse. Like all the company's equipment, it is simple to operate, backed by one of the industry’s leading warranties and comes with a list of standard features. At the top of that list is the fourwheel-drive powershift transmission with limited-slip differential, load-sensing hydraulics with pilot controls and ISO/SAE pattern change, boom float, return-to-dig and auxiliary circuit for breaker and other attachments. www.forconstructionpros.com/10093771

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

SLB95 95 17,637 14' 3" 12,354 1.3 11,240

MECALAC

Mecalac’s backhoe-loaders are specially designed to provide immediate ROI without sacrificing performance or quality. Pairing a powerful Deutz four-cylinder, Tier 4 Final diesel engine with electronic fuel injection and a robust hydraulic system, the TLB840R excels at digging, reaching, lifting and loading tasks. The curved boom design and up to 13-ft. 5-in. loading height provide optimal clearance to reach up and over obstacles, as well as the ability to load closer into trucks for greater productivity. www.forconstructionpros.com/12313048

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

TLB840R 74 16,138 17' 10" 12,139 1.32 9,442 TLB890 110 19,842 18' 7" 15,444 1.7 12,454

JCB

JCB Automate is a suite of automated features designed to decrease downtime and improve the usability and fuel efficiency of a JCB backhoe-loader. AutoCHECK performs underthe-hood daily checks upon keyon. AutoIDLE returns the engine rpm to idle, while AutoTHROTTLE returns engine speed to preset hand throttle. AutoDRIVE maintains a chosen engine speed for roading. AutoSRS activates the Smooth Ride System. AutoBOOMLOCK safely locks the boom. AutoSTABILIZERUP offers one-touch levers to raise the stabilizer legs. www.forconstructionpros.com/1007346

Model

1CXT

Gross Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout

HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

49 9,572 10' 1" 5,291 .47 5,180

3CX Compact 74 13,514 14' 2" 7,363

3CX 74 17,196 18' 6" 13,730 .92 1.30 8,285 13,600

3CX-14 74 17,704 18' 6" 13,730 1.40 13,603

3CX-14 Super 91/109 18,614 18' 6" 13,730 3CX-15 Super 109 19,090 20' 1" 13,730 4CX-14 Super 109 19,172 18' 6" 13,730 4CX-15 Super 109 19,648 20' 1" 13,730 1.60 1.60 1.60 2.00 13,603 13,603 13,728 13,728

CATERPILLAR

The latest Caterpillar backhoe-loader models have a new operator display to improve the user interface and ease of navigation to relevant information. A powershift transmission is now optional on 415 and 416 models and standard on the 420 and 430. An all-new Cat 3.6 engine provides 10+% fuel efficiency and the 420 has up to 15% more boom lift. Four-wheel drive is standard for all models. Also new for the 420 XE, 440 and 450 is electrohydraulic seat-mounted joysticks. This control system provides additional cab floor space and the ability to manipulate the loader or hoe at any seat position due to the new Dual Mode feature. www.forconstructionpros.com/10075307

Net Operating Backhoe Dig Backhoe Breakout Loader Bucket Loader Breakout Model HP Weight (lbs.) Depth (ft. in.) Force (lbs.) Cap. (cu. yds.) Force (lbs.)

415 70 16,279 14' 12,207 1.0 12,207 416 86 16,532 14' 12,207 1.0 12,207 420 92 17,271 14' 11,216 1.25 11,216 420 XE 92 17,271 14' 11,216 1.3 11,216 430 107 18,051 15' 2" 11,216 1.25 11,216 440 104 21,544 15' 6" 13,560 2.0 13,560 450 131 24,039 17' 13,560 2.0 13,560

Skid-steer loaders have possibly started to plateau in size, but the compact track loader market — given the CTL’s ability to distribute ground pressure — seems to have more momentum in continued depth and breadth of products to meet ongoing consumer demand.

“In general, largeframe CTLs offer a greater or similar ROC comparable to compact wheel loaders, but with the increased versatility of attachments and a more compact frame size.” Compact Track Loaders Get SUPERSIZED

Contractors continue to demand more performance as machines push the definition of compact.

With operating weights up to 16,000 lbs. and engine outputs in excess of 100 hp, the large end of the compact track loader (CTL) market continues to redefine the term “compact.” And this market shows few signs of slowing down any time soon.

“The large CTL segment continues to grow on a year over year basis as more and more contractors demand the added productivity that these larger machines bring to the jobsites,” says Luke Gribble, solutions marketing manager, John Deere Construction and Forestry. “Even though the machines are larger, they still have excellent maneuverability and transportability when comparing them to other pieces of common construction machinery. The overall affordability of the machines is another factor that continues to draw in new customers from many applications when comparing to other common earthmoving machines.”

The direction is clear. “The compact loader industry is trending toward larger, more powerful compact track loader machines,” says Jorge De Hoyos, senior product manager - loaders, Bobcat Company. “That said, the key here is making sure these machines remain compact. Harnessing near the power and capability of a wheel loader but still having the ability to fit through barn doors and through double gate openings or load onto a deck-over trailer is part of the versatility

Caterpillar’s largest compact track loader, the 299D3 XE, delivers enhanced performance when powering high-production hydromechanical attachments like mulching heads. This machine has a 110-gross-hp engine that combines with a 40-gpm high-flow/ high-pressure hydraulic system to deliver a hydraulic horsepower rating of 94 hp.

of the machine itself, not to mention the ability to leverage multiple attachments.”

It is about delivering the highest productivity in a relatively compact package. “A defining characteristic of a CTL is the ratio of weight to power as we see CTLs expand further over 100 hp and with an increase in auxiliary hydraulic power,” says De Hoyos. “The machines can now handle next-level high-definition attachments and jobsite tasks like brush cutting, mulching and milling as well as the ability to move earth.”

NEW APPLICATIONS EMERGE

These machines now compare favorably to other machine types. “In general, large-frame CTLs offer a greater or similar rated operating capacity (ROC) comparable to compact wheel loaders, but with the increased versatility of attachments and a more compact frame size,” says De Hoyos. “It’s hard to beat a large track loader’s combination of power, nimbleness and versatility.”

These larger CTLs typically don’t compete with their smaller siblings. “There are different applications and operations that these larger CTLs go into than the medium- to small-frame sizes,” says George MacIntyre, product marketing manager, Case Construction Equipment. This is due to the heavier lift capacities and high-flow hydraulics. “This enables them to load into high-sided dump trucks and handle heavier attachments.”

Customers are continually discovering innovative uses. “Much of this is driven by the wide variety of work tool attachments that these machines can be fitted with combined with the benefits of their compact size, stability, traction, lift capacity and low ground pressure,” says Kevin Coleman, product specialist, Caterpillar. “This means a customer can have a machine that not only can be used to grade, but can also be utilized to power hydromechanical work tool attachments such as trenchers, brooms, grapple tools, cold planers (milling heads) or mulching heads.”

Their higher ROCs enable these CTLs to handle the heaviest loads. “They perform very well in grading and material-handling applications,” says Coleman. “Many customers are also looking to the larger, high-horsepower machines to deliver high performance and productivity when paired with... hydromechanical work tools. The largest Cat CTL, the 299D3 XE, can be paired with a cold planer that has a working width of almost 4 ft., delivering a powerfully efficient combination of machine and attachment. ”

“Even when talking about larger frame machines, the overall compactness of CTLs allows them to shine wherever they are working, especially within tight spaces,” notes Gribble. “Will smaller and mid-frame sized machine be able to operate in even tighter spaces? Yes. But the ability to make quick turns and maintain a smaller footprint than other larger pieces of construction equipment gives even the largest machines a unique advantage.”

Increased pushing power and breakout force minimize cycle times and allow customers to complete most tasks much quicker than if they had a smaller machine. “One area that we continue to see a lot of demand in with the large-frame machines is vegetation management,” says Gribble. “Due to the hydraulic performance of optional highflow hydraulics, more and more CTL owners and operators are configuring the machines with brush cutter or mulching attachments to clear wooded areas.”

He adds, “Other attachments that come to mind with the increased power from CTLs include cold planers, brooms, augers, trenchers and snow blowers. Equipping

your machine with any of these attachments not only ensures that you have the right tools to do clearing work, but also gives you the benefit of completing work in the winter.”

“Land clearing is an application that is currently dominated by compact track loaders, which

Case Construction Equipment recently introduced the TV620B, the largest production compact track loader in the market by sheer operating weight at 16,000 lbs.

wasn’t necessarily the case several years ago,” notes MacIntyre. “Grading blade attachments are really making inroads for grading flat surfaces for driveways, parking lots, running paths or athletic fields.”

THE ULTIMATE FINISH GRADE TOOL

“A large-frame CTL can replace a finish dozer in some instances,” says De Hoyos. “A contractor must ask themselves if a finish dozer is the appropriate tool — will the primary application be for dozing or can they best benefit, now or later, from the versatility of a large compact track loader?”

There has already been a market shift. “The smaller sizes of dozers, that market is not there anymore,” MacIntyre states. “It has already been replaced by CTLs with grading blades. Even a CTL with a bucket can do a pretty good job. It is not a precise grade, but in many cases it may be good enough for the operation at hand.”

Contractors are now taking the next step. “They’re going to precision grading blade attach-

ments which allow the 2D or 3D blade guidance systems,” MacIntyre explains. “Then, you can get to really precise grades. The downside to using the CTL with those precision grading attachments vs. a dozer would generally just be the pushing power of the CTL vs. a dedicated dozer with steel tracks on it. One of the advantages of the dozer is you have more track on ground. That’s one of the reasons why, when we went to the bigger CTL, we wanted to have as much track on ground as possible with our design.”

Some larger CTLs are also available with steel tracks, which helps tailor the machine for grading applications. Case Construction Equipment plans to introduce two different steel track options the second quarter of next year. “We’ll have a 14-in. version with single grousers, more like a dozer-style grouser type, and then we will have 18-in. tracks that will have triple grousers, more like what you see on an excavator. There is not as much cutting into the ground,” MacIntyre points out.

Large CTLs provide an entry point for emerging contractors. “Customers looking to get into the business can complete many tasks like general site preparation and grading, which used to require a small dozer,” says Gribble. “With the added versatility that attachments bring to the equation, as well, customers are not limited to the type of work they can do throughout the entire year.”

And contractors are now able to perform precision grading tasks. “[John Deere’s] largest CTL, the 333G, can now be configured from the factory as a SmartGrade machine,” says Gribble. “The SmartGrade 333G CTL is the industry’s first fully integrated 3D grade control solution on a compact track loader. This solution installs and integrates precision 3D grade control technology at the factory while maintaining the existing versatility and productivity capabilities of our existing 333G CTL. The factory integrated solution also leverages key features like our newly designed dozer blade attachment, EZ Grade software, Dozer Mode and factory calibration — all of which assist in the overall ease of operation of the machine and help ensure that you are productively and accurately hitting grade every pass, specifically getting accuracy to within onetenth of an inch.”

You do need to understand the basic differences between a dozer and CTL when making a decision between them. “A dozer has some characteristics which set it apart from other pieces of equipment for certain tasks,” says Coleman. “Because of its size, width and weight, a small dozer shines in applications where more aggressive below-grade excavation is needed or a wider grading path resulting in fewer passes is desired. A small dozer usually also features tracks that are wider and longer, resulting in additional stability on slopes.”

The benefits of the dozer need to be weighed against the versatility of the CTL. “Using an attachment in combination with a CTL is the definition of versatility,” says Coleman. “Not only can you finish grade with the machine, but you can do an innumerable number of other tasks by simply changing the attachment connected to the machine. Other more dedicated grading pieces of equipment, like dedicated dozers, do not provide that versatility for maximum asset utilization.” Cat CTLs offer two grading solutions — the Smart Dozer with Assist and Smart Grader Blade with Assist — both of which can be used across multiple models/sizes of CTLs in the line.

“Speed is also an advantage,” says Coleman. “The smaller, nimbler compact track loader has more travel speed that can be utilized vs. a small dozer and can be easier to transport. Lastly, but most important, is ease of use. The Cat D3 Series compact track loaders have Smart Technology as standard, which will easily integrate with the new grading Smart Attachments, the Smart Dozer with Assist and Smart Grader Blade with Assist.”

REDEFINING COMPACT

“In some ways, the largest compact track loaders are no longer even qualifying as a compact machine,” MacIntyre acknowledges. They require CDLs, larger trailers and semis to move the machines, similar to larger equipment.

However, he notes, “Those customers that are buying these compact track loaders are not the ones who are so concerned about the lower end of the weight ratings because [they] are going to buy different models that meet those weight standards. The largest compact track loaders are also not really well suited to operating inside buildings like the compact machines are.”

Attachments are also getting heavier and bulkier. “The attachment types have not changed a lot, but one of the main changes is they are becoming much bigger,” says MacIntyre. “One of the reasons customers go to [these machines] is because of the pushing power for larger CTLs. They would work better with six-way dozer blades. They also work well with grading blades and any attachment that requires more flow.

“The industry is moving toward more specialized machines, even within the

compact track loader market, to make sure that they are well-suited for the particular application,” he continues. “The Case DL550 is a really good example of a specialized unit. It is positioned to do grading type applications and also land clearing. You can do some stumping with that blade. There are some other things you can do with that machine that would not be as well-suited for other CTLs.”

CONSIDER TOWING REGULATIONS

Weight becomes a concern as CTLs continue to grow in size. “When the machines get to the point of being too heavy or too large to easily load onto a trailer or without getting permits or requiring a CDL, then these machines start to lose some of their true ‘compactness,’” says Gribble.

Towing is always a consideration with compact equipment. “Each state has its own set of regulations in addition to federal requirements for a CDL, so it is important to research and understand the laws in your respective state,” Coleman advises. “A Class A CDL is required for any combination of vehicles with a gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 lbs. or more, providing the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 lbs.”

Maximum weights for transport can vary from region to region. “The weight amounts that we often hear from customers is they want to stay within 10,000 or 12,000 lbs.,” notes MacIntyre. “Usually, they want to have a CTL, a bucket and a set of forks be able to go on their trailer and be below that 10,000-lb. threshold.

“These larger CTLs are all above that 10,000-lb. rating,” he says. “When customers are looking at the weight of the machine, they should take into consideration the weight of their attachments, as well, that they want to put on that same load.”

If meeting weight requirements is important for your operation, a mid-size CTL that can be loaded on a trailer with a bucket and forks while still weighing under 10,000 lbs. may be a better fit.

Towing considerations transcend the legal requirements. “Owner-operators would be wise to consider weight restrictions and towing capacity of their current truck and trailer system before upgrading to a larger machine or attachment,” De Hoyos advises.

GROWING INTO THE FUTURE

“It wasn’t that long ago that there were very few who envisioned a compact track loader with the size and horsepower that are available today,” says Coleman. “I’m not sure if we will ever approach the 200-hp level, but customers are always looking for larger models with higher rated operating capacities, higher horsepower and auxiliary flows for increased work tool performance.

“If customers continue to demand higher horsepower solutions in a ‘compact’ machine (compact usually defined by the physical dimensions and operating weight), I’m sure manufacturers will continue to evolve and find ways to fulfil the need,” he adds.

The skid-steer and CTL markets are diverging. “Skid-steer loaders have possibly started to plateau in size, but the compact track loader market — given the CTL’s ability to distribute ground pressure — seems to have more momentum in continued depth and breadth of products to meet ongoing consumer demand,” says De Hoyos.

“We anticipate the evolution of the CTL will continue to meet the growing demands of the jobsite, along with the growing demands of owners and operators,” he continues. “With new technologies and materials, we are able to build more durable and powerful compact loaders that can serve multiple functions on the jobsite. If your business specializes in one task on a jobsite, buying a machine for a specific task can be efficient, but having a multifunction large-frame CTL on your jobsite along with an arsenal of attachments, a customer will find new efficiencies in ownership and in fleet management.”

Case Construction Equipment recently released a CTL with a 16,000-lb. operating weight. “We do believe that there is room for the compact track loaders to actually grow,” says MacIntyre. But there are some design considerations. One is the width of the machine. It cannot be wider than attachments available in customers’ fleets.

“If you have several 84-in. buckets and other attachments and the machine width is 90 in., all of a sudden all of those attachments that you had might not be able to be used, depending upon the attachment,” MacIntyre points out.

Machine width is also a constraint for transport. “You certainly don’t want to have a compact track loader that requires a wide width permit,” says MacIntyre.

In addition, customers need to be aware of the increased flow and pressure ratings produced by the largest CTLs. “A lot of customers already have attachments. When they buy a new compact track loader, especially on the upper end, they have to be careful not to run an attachment on the machine that exceeds the capacity of that attachment,” MacIntyre states. “As the manufacturers continue to increase the pressures and increase the gallons of flow per minute, they need to be careful not to exceed what the attachment suppliers have out there.”

Manufacturers are starting to address this with adjustable flows and pressures similar to that available on larger machine types. “We now offer adjustable flow with our EH machines that have our LCD display,” says MacIntyre. “As you run the machine, you can actually adjust the flow within the cab.” ET

The John Deere SmartGrade 333G compact track loader offers a fully integrated 3D grade control solution. This solution installs and integrates precision 3D grade control technology at the factory while maintaining the versatility and productivity capabilities of the existing 333G CTL model.