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equipmentworld.com | May 2014

速

2014

CONTRACTOR OF TH E

YEAR

JEREMY HILTZ

JEREMY HILTZ EXCAVATING ASHLAND, NEW HAMPSHIRE Old school skills and new school technology combined with a lifelong fascination with equipment put this New Hampshire native on top

1 350/3500 pickups. With available Cummins速 Diesel when properly equipped. 2 See dealer for details and a copy of Limited Warranty. 3 Includes $500 ON-THE-JOB Upfit Bonus Cash Allowance on most 2013 and 2014 Ram Commercial vehicles. Must take delivery by 6/30/14. See dealer for ON-THE-JOB incentive details and eligibility requirements. Ram is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC. Cummins is a registered trademark of Cummins Inc.

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Tried and true? You bet. With unmatched durability and performance, you can count on your IMT® equipment to have your back everyday. That’s commitment.

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IMT, the IMT logo and NOTHING SAYS COMMITMENT LIKE THE DIAMOND are registered trademarks of Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc., Garner, IA, USA. © 2014 Iowa Mold Tooling Co., Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Vol. 26 Number 5 |

table of contents | May 2014

Cover Story

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

Jeremy Hiltz, Jeremy Hiltz Excavating Ashland, New Hampshire

Equipment World’s 2014 Contractor of the Year has deep roots and old school skills that enabled him to not only survive, but also thrive following the recession.

18

Equipment 15

Marketplace

New product launches including Bobcat’s Tier 4 600 frame size loaders, Volvo Construction Equipment’s DD25B doubledrum compactor and Topcon’s FC-500 data controller.

29

ConExpo-Con/Agg, part 2

More products unveiled at the show, including Liebherr’s Generation 6 models, Hyundai’s first-ever compaction roller, Skyjack’s rough terrain scissor with 45-percent gradeability, Chicago Pneumatic’s first concrete equipment line, and more.

26

Maintenance/Management

Five tips for hiring military veterans

Develop a strategy to hire from the pool of thousands of technically proficient men and women exiting the military every year.

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014

5

TRAIL

KING’S

HDG

WE BUILD IT

SO YOU CAN HAUL IT THE ALL-TIME BEST SELLING DETACHABLE ON THE MARKET

HYDRAULIC DETACHABLE G O O S E N E C K

ENGINEERED WITH HIGH PERFORMANCE STANDARDS • Arched Gooseneck Design for ample clearance even at lowest king pin setting • 5-Position Gooseneck Door Adjustment allows for a full 8” range of king pin height settings • One-piece Main Beam Web and Flange Construction eliminates the potential for weak points

in high stress areas

• 10” I-beam Crossmembers on 12” centers in outer bays • Covered Knuckle/Boom Trough allows for low-profile transport • Sealed Electrical System and rubber-mounted LED lights reduce maintenance costs • A 3rd Lift Axle offers on-the-road versatility • Adjustable Ride Height Control conveniently located near rear tail channel • Heavy-Duty Pullout Front Outriggers at concentrated weight pivot point provides extra strength

For 40 years, Trail King has been the leader in making “impossible” hauls possible. Backed by our unmatched dedication to engineering quality and customer service, we can find a solution that’s just right for you.

Have a heavy haul? Contact your nearest TRAIL KING dealer or call 800.762.5557 to learn more.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

WATCH THIS TRUCK COME TO LIFE.

You’re looking at the Freightliner 122SD hauling a barge across Alaska’s unforgiving landscape. With Detroit™ DD16® engine ratings up to 600 horsepower and torque ratings up to 2050 lb-ft, it can pull heavy, oversized loads with confidence. And the 122SD boasts frame rail RBMs up to five million inch-pounds per rail. That’s the kind of rugged durability needed to make it from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, grossing 160,000 pounds.

To learn more, visit FreightlinerTrucks.com/WorkSmart.

Competitive financing available through Daimler Truck Financial. For the Freightliner Trucks dealer nearest you, call 1-800-FTL-HELP. www.freightlinertrucks.com. FTL/MC-A-1237. Specifications are subject to change without notice. Copyright © 2014.

Daimler Trucks North America LLC. All rights reserved. Freightliner Trucks is a division of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

on record | by Marcia Gruver Doyle

MGruver@randallreilly.com

What exactly do you want from your dealer?

S

o how in the heck do contractors effective way to market (50 percent saying they want to interact with dealers today? were “very effective,” with the remainder saying A joint Associated Equipment they were “somewhat effective”), open houses Distributors/Randall-Reilly research and events came in second, with 38 percent of project, conducted by our Equipdealer respondents saying they were very efment Data Associates division and tapping the fective. And they’re putting dollars behind this opinions of Equipment World readers, delves belief: 35 percent say their event spending will into this topic. While technology advances and increase this year. societal changes are pushing certain approaches Delving into end-user beliefs about dealers and to the fore, there are plenty of indications this is the information they provide, 74 percent of constill a high-touch industry. tractor respondents say they either Take, for example, contrac“agree” or “somewhat agree” that tor survey responses to how dealers keep them well informed While technolthey prefer to learn about about new products and technology advances new offers from their dealers. ogy. Another 63 percent say the The number one answer is same is true with dealers giving and societal no surprise: 64 percent said them equipment safety informachanges are tion. But contractors do have a by email. But the number pushing certain wish list: 68 percent of respondents two answer? “Informed by say they wish dealers would give a dealer representative” was approaches to them more education on new chosen by 48 percent of rethe fore, there technologies. Another 43 percent spondents (multiple answers would like more technician trainwere allowed). are plenty of ing on equipment maintenance.

Direct contact also has a indications this Whatever approach dealers use strong play when contracis still a highto get your attention, the trusty tors choose to buy or rent dealer sales representative doesn’t from a new dealer. When we touch industry. asked contractor respondents look like it’s going away any time how they found out about a soon. When asked to respond to new dealer, using an online search was the top the statement “I don’t have time to see a dealer answer (44 percent). But “word of mouth” and sales rep,” 32 percent of contractor respondents “direct contact by a dealer representative” came said they either “somewhat disagree” or “disagree,” with 41 percent remaining neutral. Having had the in at 37 percent and 34 percent, respectively. privilege of meeting more than a few of these reps, This need for human interaction is also reI know they’re out there making that extra call to flected on the dealer side. While dealer responswing the neutrals their way. dents – by far – view their websites as the most

“

”

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 9

Coming to a jobsite near you.

Now that ConExpo is over, one thing you can take home with you is the knowledge that KOBELCO excavators can help you dominate anything you throw at them, regardless of the challenging conditions they may face.

All KOBELCO excavators are engineered to do more work in less time. Unleash a KOBELCO on your next job to realize productivity gains and comfort features from the company whose core product line is and always will be crawler excavators.

thank you for joining us at Conexpo.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

KOBELCOunleashed.com

reporter | by Equipment World staff

Despite slow start to 2014 and concerns, top construction economists predict growth

T

he outlook from respected economists in the construction industry continues to be mixed. All the elements for growth are there but several factors could limit or hurt the industry’s ongoing recovery.

During a recent webinar, Bernard Markstein, chief economist at Reed Construction Data; Kermit Baker, chief economist at the American Institute of Architects and Ken Simonson, chief economist at Associated General Contractors of America, focused on the outlook for 2014 and beyond.

Markstein said the industry has shown clear evidence of economic improvement but notes that things could be better, alluding to what the three economists said was a disappointing 2014 first quarter. Whether or not this winter’s harsh weather played a big role in the so-so numbers in construction spending, employment and home starts, Markstein said, “My view and the view of others is that there will be a bounce back.”

Simonson called the recovery “pretty steady but awfully gentle,” and though he has concerns,

he expects construction spending to grow between 6 and 10 percent in 2014, saying he believes it will be closer to 10 percent, expecting that type of growth through 2017.

Simonson also forecasts labor costs to rise between 2.5 and 5 percent with materials costs growing from 1 to 3 percent through 2017.

Simonson expects “another year of gradual decline in government construction spending,” noting that the sector has “continued to cut back on money it puts into discretionary accounts, notably construction.”

He also identified his best bets for growth this year: multifamily housing, manufacturing (especially petrochemical), oil and gas projects, pipelines, warehouses, hotels and resorts, rail, and data centers.

Jobs added The latest numbers from March show construction employment at 5.964 million Americans, according to preliminary Bureau of Labor Statistics data.

Baker said he would like to see the industry average 20,000 net new positions each month. In 2013, the industry added 156,000 jobs, an average of 13,000 per month. There were a lot of ups and downs in 2013 with a few months of gains before a loss typically followed by a large gain. So far in 2014, 88,000 jobs have been added, an average of 29,300 per month largely due to January’s boost of 51,000 jobs.

“It looks like we’re getting close to what we’d like to see in terms of the trend line in adding jobs in the construction sector,” Baker said. Simonson

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 11

reporter | continued pointed out the dramatic drop in the number of unemployed construction workers. In the past four years, construction unemployment has decreased by 1.3 million workers. However, during that same period, the industry has only added 439,000. That means the majority of those workers have either left for other sectors, returned to school or they’ve retired, which places a high priority on finding new workers to replace them.

Housing disappoints Residential construction had a disappointing first quarter, although March snapped a three-month streak of decreases to the seasonally adjusted annual rate. But that bump was only 2.8 percent to 946,000—down 5.9 percent from a year ago.

Baker said some of that slow activity is weatherrelated but noted that things are still below the trend line for growth based on what analysts were seeing in the fourth quarter of last year.

Baker said the consensus of eight major housing forecasts compiled by the AIA suggests a 23-percent improvement in housing starts to 1.14 million in 2014. In 2015, a 24-percent increase to 1.43 million is forecasted. However, Baker noted that the potential for market is closer to 1.8 million. “So, still a long way to go,” he said.

Nonresidential/Transportation Noting nonresidential’s slow road to a sustained recovery, Baker said the sector seems to be getting off to a healthy start in 2014, citing a 6.4-percent year-over-year improvement as of February. Simonson said he expects nonresidential construction to grow between 4 and 8 percent in 2014 with power and lodging being the biggest winners at more than 10 percent growth.

Markstein predicts a 7-percent growth in nonresidential spending to $320 billion, followed by an 8.7-percent growth in 2015 to $328 billion.

Simsonson forecasts transportation construction to grow between 2 and 5 percent but says highway and street construction could remain flat or fall by 5 percent. That uncertainty has a lot to do with whether or not Congress can pass a highway bill that ensures the Highway Trust Fund remains solvent. The current MAP-21 transportation bill expires at the end of September and the U.S. Department of Transportation expects the HTF to run out of money by the end of August. –Wayne Grayson

12 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Briefs

Ohio DOT embarks on its largest construction season ever The Ohio Department of Transportation has announced that the 2014 construction season will be its largest ever. ODOT says the season is made up of 936 projects statewide totaling $2.5 billion.

Most of the funding will come from the Ohio Turnpike, which will provide $1.5 billion over the next six years.

This year’s season includes $1.5 billion in roadway resurfacing projects, 84 interstate safety upgrades and 30 bridges repaired or replaced.

In total, the state plans to invest $3 billion in new infrastructure spending in the next six years. The largest project contract awarded this year was the Portsmouth Bypass project at $370 million, ODOT says.

Highway Trust Fund to run out of money in August

Updating the Highway Trust Fund Ticker, the U.S. Department of Transportation predicts the HTF to run out of money by the end of August. The DOT notes that the Highway Account started fiscal year 2014 with about $1.6 billion, and $9.7 billion was transferred from the General Fund. Since then, the account’s cash balance has dropped by nearly $3.5 billion to $8.4 billion. For the latest on Highway Trust Fund Ticker, go to equipmentworld.com.

United Rentals posts strong first quarter United Rentals says it will bring in $750 million in fleet in the second quarter, the result of a strong 2014 start, with “notable year-over-year growth in rates, time utilization and volume,” according to CEO Michael Kneeland. In the company’s first quarter, rental revenue had increased 9.7 percent year-over-year. Total revenue was $1.178 billion, compared to $1.100 billion for the same period last year.

Top views on our website To check out these and current stories, go to equipmentworld.com.

Caterpillar excavators stack 600-pound blocks in the biggest game of Jenga you’ve ever seen Amazing images of subway construction in the man-made caverns below New York City Duck Dynasty star Willie Robertson designed a truck: meet the Commander Series Chevrolet Silverado

When you need to pull ahead, just hit the gas — with the 6.8L TritonŽV10 3-valve gasoline engine in the Ford F-650. Only Ford offers you the low acquisition cost of a gas engine in this class* of trucks. With a substantial 362 hp, 457 lb.-ft. of torque and available CNG or LPG conversion capability,** Ford Commercial Trucks give you some great business choices to make.

Find out more at ford.com/commercial-trucks.

*Class is 6-7 Conventional Cabs. **See dealer for details. Requires the CNG/LPG Gaseous Engine Prep Package at time of order.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

RIDE AND UTILIZATION

Two words sum up the Wirtgen SP 84i: Ride and Utilization. In today’s competitive paving market, specs are tight, schedules even tighter. To maximize bonus, you need to exceed both.

A product of Wirtgen’s state of the art manufacturing, the SP 84i is built to the most exacting standards. And its all new, innovative design allows for unparalleled flexibility and mobilization. This means you spend less time setting up and more time paving. Paving with the precision you’d expect from a Wirtgen; the precision you get with the SP 84i.

WIRTGEN AMERICA . 6030 Dana Way . Antioch, TN 37013 Tel.: (615) 501-0600 . www.wirtgenamerica.com

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

marketplace | by Amy Materson | AMaterson@randallreilly.com

EDI T PICOR’S K

DPF-FREE LOADERS

Meet emissions standards with no sacrifice in productivity with Bobcat’s Tier 4 600 frame-size loaders. The four loaders – S630 and S650 skid-steer loaders and T630 and T650 compact track loaders – feature an ultra-low particulate combustion engine instead of using a diesel particulate filter. The ULPC engine has a specially designed chamber that reduces particulate matter created during combustion. The 74-horsepower loader lineup has a two-speed option for faster travel – the skid-steer models have a 7.1-mph max speed in low mode and 12.3 in high mode, while the track loaders have a top speed of 6.6 mph in low and 1.7 in high. Service intervals have been extended, with the engine oil and filter change interval increased from 250 hours in the previ-

Quick specs: Specifications

S630 skid steer

S650 skid steer

Rated operating capacity

2,180 lbs

2,690 lbs

Lift path

Radius

Vertical

Engine

74 hp Tier 4 turbo diesel

74 hp Tier 4 turbo diesel

Lift height to hinge pin

10 ft 1 in

10 ft 4 in

Operating weight

7,610 lbs

8,061 lbs

Auxiliary hydraulic flow

23 gpm

23 gpm

High flow option

30.5 gpm

30.5 gpm

ous model to 500 hours in the 600 loaders. An air filter equipped with a built-in pre-cleaner extends filter life when used in high debris applications, and a cartridge style block heater ensures engine starts in cold conditions. Machine protection systems monitor coolant and oil temperatures, managing the engine to prevent reaching a shut-down point for minimal engine wear and no loss of productivity. Cold weather protection limits the max engine speed until the engine reaches operating temperature. The T630 and T650 compact track loaders offer 4.0 and 4.2 psi ground pressure with wide tracks, respectively. Features include a cab-forward design that ensures visibility in all directions by moving the operator closer to the attachment. Bobcat says the loaders feature the largest cab door opening on the market, which allows the operator a better view of the cutting edge the bucket or attachment corners. Large side and rear windows provide a view to the tires, tracks and back of the machine, and T630 compact T650 compact a large top window track loader track loader allows the operator 2,230 lbs 2,570 lbs to see the attachment when the lift arms Radius Vertical are raised. The sealed, 74 hp Tier 4 74 hp Tier 4 turbo pressurized cab offers turbo diesel diesel a choice of standard foot pedal hydraulic 10 ft 1 in 10 ft 4 in controls, Advanced Control System or the 8,742 lbs 9,321 lbs Selectable Joystick 23 gpm 23 gpm Controls on the four machines.

30.5 gpm 30.5 gpm EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 15

We’ve Got You Covered

marketplace | continued

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SAFETY TECH OUTRIGGER PADS Rugged, one piece pads with rope handle.

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Call for details.

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www.alturnamats.com 16 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

VERSATILE COUPLER

Change attachments simply and safely with Geith’s Generation 3 hydraulic quick coupler, which works with a variety of different carriers’ attachments. The G3 has four independent safety components and complies with new ISO/FDIS 13031:2013(E) safety standards. The double locking fully automatic quick coupler has a front safety lock that retains the attachment in the event of improper link/ rear pin connection. The front safety lock and the mechanical secondary rear safety system independently retain the attachment in a working position should a loss of hydraulic power occur. Unlike gravity-type systems, both the front and rear springretained safety locks maintain functionality in severe or dirty environments. The coupler’s curved engaging plate holds the attachment’s link firmly in place upon loss of hydraulic power. The coupler also features a hydraulic cylinder check valve and Geith’s “curl to release” control system.

SEAMLESS SOFTWARE INTEGRATION

Seamlessly integrate software solutions while simplifying work flow with Topcon Positioning Group’s FC-500 data controller, designed for Topcon’s Magnet Field, Site and Layout software and Pocket 3D. The FC-500 works with all Topcon GPS/GNSS receivers and total stations, as well as the new LN-100 for BIM and one-person construction layout. The FC-500 has a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, 5-MP camera with built-in LED flash and Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.

The sunlight-readable unit is waterproof to one meter and has 8 GB of flash storage with the ability to store hundreds of jobsite photos. A geotagging feature allows imprinting file information, including GPS location, directly on photos.

The FC-500 GEO has Bluetooth, WiFi and GPS, and a third model adds a 3.5G cellular model that allows access to the Magnet Enterprise Solutions Suite.

BRIGHT LIGHTS

Repair lights in the field with the Modular Light Balloon from 8:12 Illumination, which enables workers to quickly troubleshoot and replace components instead of tearing down the entire light setup. The balloon emits up to 440,000 lumens of 360-degree, nonblinding light, and is made from a special nylon material that allows the maximum amount of lumens possible to shine through. The balloon is fire resistant, waterproof and wind resistant to 45 mph. The units are designed with a fan that cools the lamps while inflating the balloon, and a built-in stabilizer prevents bulbs from loosening during transport. The lightweight, sturdy unit is available in 4,000-, 3,000- and 1,000-watt HID models, as well as a 2,000- and 1,000-watt halogen.

AN E.P.I.C. GENERATION EFFICIENT. POWERFUL. INTELLIGENT. COMFORTABLE.

REDUCED FUEL CONSUMPTION

Volvo Construction Equipment’s DD25B double drum compactor combines high productivity and a 7-percent decrease in fuel from the previous engine. Powered by a Tier 4 Final three-cylinder 25-horsepower engine, the DD25B conforms to EPA emissions standards without the added cost of an aftertreatment system. The DD25B delivers high frequency compaction with a choice of 3,300 or 4,000 vpm, depending upon the application. Angled drum mounts, a sloping hood design and a sliding seat ensure a 360-degree view of the drum edges when the compactor is rolling. The drums’ chamfered edges ensure a smooth mat, and a consistent flow of water is delivered to the front and rear drum surfaces to eliminate asphalt pickup for a high quality finish. Additional features include a high capacity water tank that can be monitored from the operator’s seat, adjustable interval between sprays and easily removable water nozzles. Maintenance is simplified via long-life urethane front and rear drum wipers, and eccentric bearings that are lubricated for life and built to tolerate high temperatures and rotation speeds. An auto-start vibration engages automatically when the FSR level is moved out of neutral, disengaging when the lever is in the stop position.

Kawasaki pioneered the Z-Link design to provide unmatched utility, high breakout force and efficiency in its loaders. The Z7 generation Implements brand-new patented technology, industry exclusive innovation, and input from owners and operators all over the world. We’ve engineered the Z7 series from the ground up!

> 15 Models > .78–13.5 cu.yd. > 45 HP–720 HP

www.kawasakiloaders.com 2140 Barrett Park Drive | Suite 101 Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 17

contractor of the year | by Tom Jackson | TJackson@randallreilly.com

2014

CONTRACTO OF THE YEA

Jeremy Hiltz, Jeremy Hiltz Excavating, Ashland, New H

18 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

OR AR

Hampshire

A

lthough Jeremy Hiltz started margins shrank, the business was solid his own company in 1996, enough to continue to grow and Hiltz his roots in construction go didn’t have to lay anybody off. much deeper. When he was “It was tough,” Hiltz admits. “We were just five years old he would lucky to get some school work. We went get up early, creep downstairs, grab his into that sector hard and were lucky to lunch pail and wait for his dad by the stay busy.” door, hoping to get a ride to the jobsite.

Finding the right size for his company “I was pretty low maintenance,” Hiltz was also a challenge. “We’re not a large says, “just happy to go.” By the time he company, but we’re not a small comwas 11, Hiltz was running a wheel loader pany either,” Hiltz says. “Being medium for his dad and working every hour that sized brings the kind of overhead a small school didn’t claim for the family excavacontractor doesn’t face, yet we didn’t tion and site work business. have enough horsepower to punch the When Hiltz ventured out on his own big guy in the chin. We did well, but not in 1996, all he owned was a pickup as well.” truck. He got one job, Which way to go? demo’ed three different Hiltz chose growth excavators to complete and after about a the job and used the year, the success he Ashland, New Hampshire money he earned as a had been enjoying down payment on the came back.

Jeremy Hiltz Excavating one he liked the best.

“We just looked Hiltz and his small crew harder at how to Year started: 1996 worked 20 hour days to build the mouseNumber of employees: 45 build up enough cash trap,” Hiltz says.

Annual revenues: $8 to $10 million to purchase additional “We’ve always been Markets served: Commercial site equipment and by the fairly creative at end of his first year bidding and in this work, road building, municipal and he’d banked $500,000 industry, that’s the utility work. in sales. The second key to profit. I’m an year, he doubled that active owner and and it was off to the races.

I’m on the job every day. We will talk Today more than 20 people from his about every task and how to do it more dad’s old company work with Jeremy efficiently.” including office manager Karen NichBankable reputation ols, who has worked with Jeremy since But success at Hiltz Excavating is as he was 17. “We call them the alumni,” much about reputation as it is efficiency says Hiltz. “We’re like a family here. and right-sizing. “We have always been There is no pecking order; everybody adamant about paying our bills,” Hiltz is the same, laborer or engineer. Each is equally important and we all wear many says. “We may not get paid, but it is important to us to keep our subs and hats,” he says. vendors. Our credit is impeccable, so Growing during the recession our bonding has always stayed strong.

The recession hit Hiltz Excavating just like In fact, many private projects require every construction company. Although his bonding in the pre-bid, but if the owner

Jeremy Hiltz

Jeremy Hiltz (center) with part of his crew (from left to right) Lee Hughes, mechanic; Tom Lyford, superintendent; Dan Lyford, vice president; and Jeremy’s son Colby.

Photos: Tania Hiltz and Tom Jackson EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 19

contractor of the year | continued knows us, they will elect not to bond the project because it saves them thousands of dollars.”

Andy Davis can testify to the company’s reputation. Davis spotted one of Hiltz’s spit-shined dump trucks while driving one day. He was so impressed that he looked up the telephone number and asked to see the head of the company, eventually becoming Hiltz’s insurance agent.

“Other contractors get frustrated when they see him at a pre-bid because they know he does great work,” Davis says.

“He’s out there in the trenches with the troops, working alongside his employees, making sure everything is perfect.

He genuinely cares about the people who work for him. All of his employees take pride in the company.”

Old school skills Having grown up around equipment, Hiltz and many on his crew have developed a level of skill and craftsmanship that few can match. “Even with all the changes through the years, we can look at an application and still do something old school,” he says. “Sometimes that’s going to be faster and more efficient.”

For example he says: “Today everybody does everything with an excavator and a clean-up bucket. But we used to clean up with a dozer. We’re not so dependent on the excavator. We can throw in a small dozer and clean up a roadside Tracy Fellows, operator, and Jeremy.

20 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

When time allows, Jeremy and his wife Tania also build, flip and remodel homes.

THERE’S A REASON OUR NEW HYDRAULIC HYBRID EXCAVATOR WILL SAVE YOU UP TO 25% IN FUEL COSTS.

FINDTHE REASON.com

© 2014 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the “Power Edge” trade dress, BUILT FOR IT, as well as corporate and product identity herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

contractor of the year | continued and we have the operators who know how to do it.”

Hiltz is fanatic about productivity. Whereas a typical operator might load a truck every minute and a half, Hiltz coaches his guys on technique until they can get it down to 45 seconds.

“To load a truck fast, you don’t load it,” Hiltz says. “You are basically throwing the dirt in the truck, but in a smooth manner. It’s something you have to practice. Don’t wait for the truck to stop. Blow the horn while he’s still backing up. Then everybody gets into the whole production. You get geared up and make it a challenge – how many loads did we get today?”

Hiltz cautions that it has to be coaching, however, and not criticism. “It’s one-on-one.

You show them the dollars and cents. That way nobody feels demeaned,” he says.

condition is that Hiltz can get top dollar for them at auction. And Hiltz turns over his fleet quite often, sometimes keeping key machines as little as three years.

Bill Gilpatric, superintendent, is also a Lyford brother-in-law.

Keep it clean At the end of every shift, the company’s operators and drivers are expected to clean out the cab, dusty surfaces are wiped down and the dash gets a hit of Armor All. Seats are protected with seat covers and nothing is allowed on the dashboard. Metal lunch boxes are not allowed either as they can scratch dash and console materials. “If you don’t have a soft-sided lunch box, I will buy you one,” Hiltz says.

Hiltz doesn’t discriminate against smokers, but says smoking is not allowed in his machines or trucks.

“It’s unfair to those who don’t smoke if they have to get into a machine that reeks of tobacco and they have to work in it for 12 or 13 hours. People can smoke on their breaks, they can chew all they want, but they can’t smoke in the equipment.”

When operators or drivers come 22 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

back to the yard, they pressure wash their machine or truck. Everything is waxed on a regular basis.

This brings two benefits: One, it sets the tone for company. It gives the crews pride in the machines they operate and the work they do. Two, nobody has to work in a ratted-out machine.

The other benefit to keeping his trucks and equipment in mint

Early GPS fan While old school earthmoving methods have served the company well, Hiltz is also an enthusiastic fan of GPS technology.

An early adopter of laser systems, Hiltz bid on a job with 20 acres of athletic fields about six years ago, and decided to take a gamble on GPS. “The fields were super-elevated and crowned and you had to do it in three of four layers, and every layer has a tight tolerance,” he says. “With the old school method you would have to stake this in a 15- or 25-foot grid with stringing in-between. A grade crew would have to be constantly checking to make sure your tolerances were on.”

GPS took the staking away and all the trial and error that went with it.

“With GPS, the tolerance was about a tenth, and that’s not fine enough,” he says. “However it’s close enough that the laser box can grade it to within the thickness of a dime and they can follow the GPS machine and work in tandem. We breeze

Hiltz keeps his new Cat dump trucks and all his equipment meticulously clean.

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

contractor of the year | continued through these things now and have never once failed a grade check.”

Hiltz hesitates to guestimate how much more efficient his crews are with GPS, but he says it’s probably around 25 percent.

Fighter,” filmed in Lowell, Massachusetts. He knew learning from Eklund would be a great benefit to Jeremy so they started doubling up his training sessions, going to the West End Gym in Lowell Massachusetts on a regular basis.

Safety first Hiltz trained for four months Hiltz Excavating has once-a-week leading up to the fight in Janutoolbox talks on safety. The ary. During this time, he susmost common topic, not surpristained broken ribs twice while ingly, is trenches and trenching. sparring. After the fact, Eklund “An important part of our safety was astounded at the fact that program is making sure all the Hiltz didn’t stop him. “Even my equipment is in good working pros stop me after a minute,” order,” Hiltz says. “Lifting gear Eklund says. “Hiltz never said a is the most important, but being word even after six, three-minute certain each job is equipped with rounds.” There was considerthe proper gear is also a top able healing time needed, which priority. If we have an issue we’ll did interfere in his training. To Steve Garland (right) started working shut down and talk to everybody make matters worse, just as the for Hiltz’s father in 1988. In 2003 he about it. ribs healed Hiltz got pneumonia. went to work for Jeremy and is now “The safety program gets us Luckily, Hiltz was able to shake the general superintendent of the rebates on insurance for having that just in time for his Vermont company. a good safety record, and it’s imGolden Gloves match. portant to our general contractors At the fight the only available and clients,” Hiltz says. “It didn’t contracting and sports are many. opponent for Hiltz, who had been used to be, but now its one of the And like many contractors, Hiltz training as a heavyweight, was premises on which you get hired.” played sports in high school. the super heavyweight defending As an adult, Hiltz stays commitchamp – 100 pounds heavier, with Staying humble ted to a healthy lifestyle, exercising a 6-inch advantage in reach and Jeremy learned how to run equipon a regular basis. Using boxing as height. ment and jobs working alongside a routine part of his workout, Hiltz’ Despite the disadvantage, Hiltz’s his dad. But the most important coach Greg Avila commented on his competitive spirit wouldn’t allow lesson he learned from his dad is to ability in the ring and suggested he him to decline the match. He hung take it seriously. be humble. “Being humble means in for three rounds and was scornot living outside your means, putAt his age Hiltz doubted he could ing well when a blow to the back ting your money back of the head caused into the company,” he his legs to wobble.

Being humble means not living says.

The referee would not “When he’d see other outside your means, putting your allow the match to contractors with big continue. money back into the company. boats or expensive Nonetheless, Hiltz sports cars, my dad was thrilled to have would tell me, ‘Son, that’s all fine compete in boxing, but it had been the opportunity to box against a and well, but if you have a good an interest of his for quite some time. great fighter and bring to the boxThe Vermont Golden Gloves has a year, put it back into the company, ing ring the same dedication and tournament every year where they because next year you may not focus that have made his construchold a Masters Division, and his coach tion company a success. have such a good year; or give the suggested they work towards that. guys a bonus for working hard,’” They trained daily on top of Hiltz says. a typical work day. Hiltz’ coach To see a video of Jeremy Hiltz boxing knew Dicky Eklund, a pro boxer/ Competitive spirit go to www.equipmentworld.com.

The similarities between construction trainer who was in the movie “The

“

24 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

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maintenance | by Tom Jackson | TJackson@randallreilly.com

Five tips for hiring military veterans An ad in the paper isn’t enough – you need a strategy

T

he economy is growing and construction contractors are scrambling for new employees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction employment is expected to grow by 1.84 million jobs or 33 percent by 2020.

At the same time there are thousands of technically proficient people exiting the military every year and their numbers are expected to swell over the next five years as budget cuts reduce the size of the uniformed services.

For construction contractors looking to add skilled employees to their business there isn’t a better pool of candidates to choose from than the men and women transitioning from the military. But it can be a challenge to find them and convince them that your company is the company they need go to work for when they leave the service.

According to Dan Young, regional partner/manager at Orion International, to snag these high-value employees you need an “all-encompassing,

26 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

enterprise-level strategy.” There are five key elements to such a strategy.

1. Marketing Military veterans aren’t going to beat a path to your door just because you put an ad in the paper. Your strategy should start with a marketing program to get your name out to the military community. And part of marketing is to do your homework. Learn who these people are, how their skills could fit within your organization and what their expectations are for a second career in the civilian world.

Marketing is not something most heavy construction contractors put a lot of effort into. But when it comes to military veterans, Young says, there are dozens, if not hundreds of other companies competing for these veterans’ attention. “You have to position your company as an attractive career opportunity and an employer of choice,” he says.

To get exposure to the widest possible military community you may need to hire a consulting firm with well-established ties to the transitioning military community, says Young. The construction contractors who do this typical have bigger goals than just filling a few empty positions. “They want a fullscale military talent program,” he

says. This includes not only advertising in the periodicals that reach transitioning military personnel, but help identifying relevant job fairs and making connections with the military’s training schools such as the Seabees school in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, and Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where the Army trains its combat engineers.

2. Show them the benefits Once you’ve enabled these prospective employees to find you, you need to be able to show them the benefits and advantages of working in the civilian sector and especially for your company. These are not newbies off the street, but welltrained, highly motivated and proven entities. But few of them know how things work or what to expect in the civilian world. What will attract them to your company are: • Education and training opportunities. “Continuing education and training is a benefit that most veterans want,” Young says. “It is a critical factor, especially with the midlevel and upper level candidates,” he says. Advanced training is automatic in the military, but not always so in the civilian world. Many veterans will have their GI bill benefits and are looking for an opportunity that’s going to allow them to continue with their education while working.

• A healthy work/life balance. A big plus for contractors in the private sector is the ability to sell military people on the work-life balance, Young says. “As you can imagine, a lot of veterans don’t have a good understanding of what a healthy or reasonable work-life balance is,” he says. “That’s probably the biggest reason why the majority of veterans transition

out of the service.”

• The benefits package. Additionally, veterans may not be familiar with the modern corporate benefit package including health care premiums, 401K plans and profit sharing.

These need to be explained up front to prevent any misunderstanding with the first paycheck.

3. Promote camaraderie The companies that have the best records for retaining veterans also share certain cultural similarities with the military. The most important of these is camaraderie.

“If you poll 100 veterans about what they miss the most about the military I can guarantee at least 80 percent of them are going to say the camaraderie,” says Young.

“It’s ingrained in the military culture and that’s an expectation they have as they transition into corporate America.”

What is camaraderie? The military has long known that to survive in combat a unit’s people must have fierce loyalty for each other. Accordingly officers and NCOs are trained to lead by example. There are ranks, but no prima donnas. Officers do just as many pushups as privates, if not more. You work hard, you play hard and you will fight to the death for each other. The civilian world with its shifting alliances, office politics, hidden agendas and CEO worship can be an alien environment for transitioning military.

4. Encourage networking Companies are starting to recognize veterans’ affinity groups and employee resource groups are key elements in a program to retain veteran employees, Young says. And the payoff can be much bigger than just retention. By allowing veterans to network with other veterans who have similar backgrounds and experience in the military you’re helping to spread the reputation of your company as a topflight place for veterans to land.

In other words, hire one veteran, and if he likes what he sees, he could bring in many more of his friends of equal caliber. “You would be amazed at how big the military is but how small the network is and how quickly the word can get around,” Young says. “We’ve been in business 22 years and probably half of our placements come straight from referrals.”

5. Manage expectations People coming out of the military are used to a highly structured environment. Officers and NCOs expect people to jump when they say jump and it isn’t always so in the civilian world.

That can be a problem, but increasingly it is not because civilian employers recognize and anticipate these differences. “It is critical to help them with that transition,” Young says. “There is more to it than just hiring someone. We reach candidates 12 to 18 months before they make that transition and we start the educa-

★★★★ Understanding military ranks and designations ★★★★ If you’re unfamiliar with military ranks and careers and how they translate into the civilian world, here are a few pointers.

Officers. A college degree is required to become an officer, and depending on their length of service they may have advanced degrees. They may have some technical skills but their primary role is to serve as managers and they will typically lead large units. Depending on rank they may preside over anywhere from 120 to 20,000 or more people.

NCOs (non-commissioned officers) have advanced technical training but are not required to have college degrees (although many complete a degree while in uniform). Their primary role is also the leadership and training of smaller units. Most NCOs will be responsible for groups of 20 to 200.

Enlisted personnel are trained in the basics of a specific skill, but are typically on their first four-year tour of duty and have no regular leadership responsibilities.

Warrant officers are somewhere between a commissioned officer and NCO. They typically have limited leadership responsibilities but often bring a high level of training and experience to the job.

tion process then. It’s having a very positive effect and leading to higher retention rates.”

Is it worth it?

Consultants, marketing plans, campaigns. If it seems like a lot of effort, Young cites a long list of assets military veterans bring to any employer.

Veterans, he says: • Are well trained.

• Have the ability to follow and give orders.

• Show up on time, every time.

• Don’t hesitate to go the extra mile even when things get tough.

• Understand the importance of safety.

• Know how to contribute to and build strong teams.

• Are drug-free and physically fit.

• Relish challenges.

What it all boils down to is “leadership, skills, reliability and character,” says Young. “First and foremost you’re hiring people who are going to be with you a long time, your future leaders. You are hiring for the future of your company. That’s the most important thing.”

About our expert Dan Young is a partner and central U.S. regional manager for Orion International, which helps companies establish military talent programs through the identification, training and placement of junior military officers and enlisted technicians into leadership and technical roles in corporate America.

A former Navy Surface Warfare officer, Young holds a masters degree in engineering management from George Washington University and a bachelors degree in civil engineering from the University of Illinois.

He can be contacted at dyoung@orioninternational.com.

Young also recently gave a presentation on recruiting and retaining military veterans for the Association of Equipment Management Professionals (AEMP). That presentation can be downloaded at: http://www. aemp.org/files/2014/02/Young-Recruiting.pdf EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 27

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2014 Contractor of the Year winner and finalists IN

R

E

N

W

Jeremy Hiltz Jeremy Hiltz Excavating Ashland, New Hampshire

Dwaine Doss Doss Enterprises Jane Lew, West Virginia

Kevin and Shawn Guyer Guyer Brothers Construction New Enterprise, Pennsylvania

Daniel Thiel and Steven Mueller J&S General Contracting Osceola, Wisconsin

Don Facciobene Don Facciobene Incorporated (DFI) Palm Bay, Florida

Vern Larman Larman Construction Garland, Texas

Brian Winot Northeast Site Contractors East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

Brad Phillips Phillips Companies Beavercreek, Ohio

Landon Floyd Precision Pipeline Cedar City, Utah

Doug Thomas Thomas Construction Grove City, Pennsylvania

James Tollestrup James Tollestrup Construction Lethbridge, Alberta

Brian Winkler Wm. Winkler Company Newman Lake, Washington

Sponsored by:

ConExpo-Con/Agg, part 2 | A Construction Media Division staff report

Our continuation of products unveiled during March’s ConExpo-Con/Agg show.

Topcon updates P-32 asphalt paving system Topcon Positioning Systems updated its P-32 asphalt paving system with a ST-3 sonic tracker, anti-vibration slope sensor and firmware update to the GC-35 control box.

The ST-3 sonic tracker is designed to provide optimal position indication on string lines, a wide range of linear detection and work well in tight areas. The slope sensor is added to improve accuracy in challenging conditions. The firmware update offers improved slope accuracy data by displaying the cross slope value when the control box is set in elevation control mode on both sides. Block slope calibration prevents operators from changing the slope sensor while the system is in operation.

Hyundai unveils company’s first-ever compaction roller Hyundai Construction Equipment unveiled six new equipment models, including its first compaction roller in the North American market, the HR120C-9. A Deutz Tier 4 Final water-cooled diesel engine delivers 130 horsepower to the 26,455-pound single vibratory drum roller, which has a 6-foot, 10-inch drum width.

The machine features teflon bearings that eliminate the need for greasing, and the drum is equipped with front and rear scrapers that can remove sticky soils.

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 29

ConExpo-Con/Agg, part 2 | continued Skyjack SJ6832 rough terrain scissor 45-percent gradeability Skyjack’s SJ6832 electrically powered rough terrain scissor lift has four-wheel drive and 45-percent gradeability included as standard features.

The zero-emission scissor was built on the same chassis as Skyjack’s existing diesel and dual fuel 68RT machines, enabling customers to make an easy transition to the RTE. The elimination of servicing air filters, fuel filters, oil filters, oil changes, belts and coolants serves to reduce maintenance costs for customers. The RTE can also be used indoors because of the low noise and zero emission configuration.

Doosan releases Tier 4 final P185 compressor The Doosan Portable Power Tier 4 final P185 air compressor is now powered by a Deutz engine with a diesel oxidation catalyst filter. The unit also has a redesigned operator interface where 14 different operation parameters can be viewed in four languages. Doosan also introduced its first gas-powered compressor in the popular 185 size. The C185 gives users requiring 185 cfm at 100 psi air an alternative to diesel power and its Tier 4 requirements. Powered by a 2.5-liter, fully electronic, fuel-injected Kubota engine, the unit has a comparable runtime of 8 hours at full load with that of a diesel unit.

30 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Hammer-less tooth system fits more machines Esco’s Ultralock tooth system has been expanded to fit a wider range of machines and includes bolt-on adaptors for wheel loaders and new point shapes for utility and quarry applications. The hammer-less design is integrated with the point, making field replacement safer, easier and faster.

© 2014 Chevron U.S.A. Inc. All rights reserved. All trademarks are property owned by Chevron Intellectual Property LLC or their respective owners.

*Delo 16 piece tool kit with qualifying purchase. Minimum volume

requirements apply. Available April 1 to May 31, 2014 while supplies last.

Call your Chevron Lubricants First Source Marketer for details.

Delo® products help provide extended service protection, maximize engine durability and minimize operating costs. And now, for a limtited time get a free Delo 16 piece tool kit with qualifying purchase. Minimum volume requirements apply. Delo® products utilize our specialized ISOSYN® Technology, which combines premium base oils, high performance additives and Chevron formulating expertise to provide superb diesel parts protection that rivals synthetic performance. Learn how Delo’s family of products can help you go further, visit ChevronDelo.com

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ConExpo-Con/Agg, part 2 | continued Power density in a small package The new Hatz 4H50TIC (turbo intercooled) diesel engine puts out a maximum of 75 horsepower and 177 foot-pounds of torque with just 1,952 cc of displacement. The DPF-free design uses an optimized combustion chamber geometry and Bosch common rail fuel injection with pressures up to 26,100 psi to reduce particulate emissions, conserve fuel and meet Tier 4 Final regulations.

Chicago Pneumatic enters concrete equipment market Chicago Pneumatic’s new concrete equipment line includes vibration, leveling, finishing and cutting products. The company’s VPM mechanical pokers are designed for mid-sized applications using medium- to high-slump concrete, and the VPP pneumatic poker range handles jobs of any size with low- to high-slump concrete requiring high-speed vibration.

CP’s new walk-behind screeds are equipped with Honda engines and feature throttle control for quick adjustments. The LBG 1200 hand-held screed provides surface vibration and is suitable for slabs of all types and concrete of all consistencies. The CP CombiForm lightweight, leave-in-place screed rail system is an efficient leveling solution that has no concrete pre-leveling requirement before screeding. The STG power trowel line provides smooth finish surfaces on concrete slabs, parking lots and more. CP’s concrete and asphalt floor saws deliver a straight, stable cut for expansion joints, up to a 150-mm max depth. Features include adjustable handles and ergonomically positioned controls, and gas and diesel models are available.

Shell LubeExpress speed up oil changes Changing lube oil and filters on a truck or piece of off-road equipment can get messy. The Shell LubeExpress eliminates the dirty work and speeds up the process by forcing oil out of the engine and the oil filter with air pressure. The dirty oil is collected via the oil pan and fresh oil is pumped back into the engine under pressure. The process helps keep the shop and technicians clean, minimizes contact with hot oil and improves shop productivity.

Mixed service tires improve on/off-road performance Goodyear’s G731 MSA and G751 MSA mixed-service tires will become available for construction, dump, cement mixers and other types of fleets this summer in several different sizes. A special tread compound in these tires enhances resistance to chips, cuts and tears. The tires will also feature Goodyear’s DuraSeal Technology, a gel-like rubber compound built into the tire’s casing, which instantly seals nail-hole punctures up to 1/4 inch in the repairable are of the tread.

32 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

safety watch | by Amy Materson | AMaterson@randallreilly.com

Be wary of work zones

Illustration by Don Lomax

Know how to stay safe when there’s a lot going on

The accident: A heavy equipment operator was part of a crew working on a resurfacing project for a county road. In need of a restroom, but with none available in the work zone, the operator chose an area out of the line of sight of others between two compactors. While the worker was between the two pieces of equipment, a dump truck backed into one of the compactors, pushing the machine into the other compactor and crushing the operator.

He was transported to the nearest hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The bottom line: A post-accident investigation determined the parking brake on the compactor struck by the dump truck was not functioning, enabling the truck to push the machine into the other compactor. Furthermore, the dump

truck driver was backing into position using only his driver’s side rear mirror and without the aid of a spotter. The dump truck’s rear backup alarm was not functioning.

A number of mistakes contributed to the accident, which was completely preventable. Here are some simple steps to avoid finding yourself in the same situation: Follow the plan – With so many vehicles and machines on the site, workers on foot and on equipment should follow the jobsite’s internal traffic control plan, which will keep machines and pedestrians out of the same lanes of travel.

Use a spotter – When backing trucks and other equipment in a work zone, always use a spotter.

A predetermined means of communication, such as radios or hand signals, needs to be used to maneuver the vehicle into position.

Check your equipment – One of the compactors and the truck had mechanical issues. A pre-shift equipment inspection would have found both the malfunctioning compactor brake and the truck’s inoperable backup alarm. Before you begin work, make sure a trained operator has conducted a pre-start safety inspection. Any equipment with non-functioning safety features should be placed out of service.

Always remember you’re vulnerable when you’re on foot on a jobsite. Never place yourself between two pieces of equipment, or between a piece of equipment and a structure. Any non-work activities that will take your attention away from your surroundings – cell phone calls, bathroom breaks, etc. – should be conducted outside the work zone area.

Information for this Safety Watch is from an accident report and NIOSH’s Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation program. It is meant for general information only.

Date of safety talk: Attending:

Leader:

_____________________ EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 33

alerta de seguridad | por Amy Materson | AMaterson@randallreilly.com

Tenga cuidado con las zonas de trabajo

Illustration by Don Lomax

Sepa cómo mantenerse seguro en medio de mucha actividad

El accidente: Un operador de maquinaria pesada formaba parte de una cuadrilla que trabajaba en un proyecto de repavimentación de un camino del condado. Necesitando ir al baño y no teniendo ninguno disponible en la zona de trabajo, el operador eligió un área lejos de la vista de otros entre dos compactadoras. Mientras el trabajador estaba en medio de estas dos maquinarias, un camión de volteo retrocedió hacia una de las compactadoras, empujando la máquina contra la otra compactadora y aplastando al operador. Fue transportado al hospital más cercano donde fue pronunciado muerto a su llegada.

Conclusión: Una investigación posterior al accidente determine que el freno de estacionamiento de la compactadora que fue golpeada por el camión de volteo no funcionaba, permitiendo así que el camión empujase la máquina contra la otra compactadora. Más

aun, el conductor del camión estaba retrocediendo mientras usaba únicamente el espejo retrovisor del lado del conductor y sin la ayuda de un vigilante. La alarma de retroceso del camión de volteo no funcionaba.

Una serie de errores contribuyeron a este accidente totalmente prevenible. Aquí algunos pequeños pasos que le evitarán encontrarse en la misma situación: Siga el plan – Habiendo tantos vehículos y maquinarias en la obra, los trabajadores a pie y aquellos montados en maquinarias deberían seguir el plan interno de control de circulación de la obra, el mismo que mantiene a máquinas y peatones fuera de las mismas rutas.

Utilice un vigilante – Al retroceder camiones y otra maquinaria en una zona de trabajo, use siempre un vigilante. Se necesita el uso de formas de comunicación previamente acordadas como radios o señales con las manos para

La información para esta Alerta de Seguridad proviene de un reporte de accidente y del Programa de Evaluación y Control de

Fecha de la charla de seguridad: Asistentes: 34 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

maniobrar el vehículo a la posición deseada.

Revise su maquinaria – Una de las compactadoras y el camión Illustration

by Don Lomax tenían problemas mecánicos. Una inspección previa al turno de trabajo habría encontrado la avería del freno de la compactadora y que no funcionaba la alarma de retroceso del camión. Antes de empezar a trabajar asegúrese de que un operador entrenado ha realizado una inspección previa de seguridad. Cualquier maquinaria cuyas funciones de seguridad no funcionen debería ser sacada de servicio.

Recuerde siempre que, en una obra, usted se halla más vulnerable cuando se encuentra a pie. Nunca se coloque entre dos maquinarias, o entre una maquinaria y una estructura. Cualquier actividad no relacionada con el trabajo que distraiga su atención del entorno – llamadas al celular, interrupciones para ir al baño, etc. –deberían llevarse a cabo fuera del área de trabajo.

Víctimas Fatales del NIOSH. Tiene únicamente fines de información general.

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trucks | by Jack Roberts | JRoberts@randallreilly.com

Test Drive: Mack Titan With roots in the Outback, Mack’s high-horsepower hauler looks to make a name in the States

I

f you went into a lab and boiled down everything Mack trucks has learned and experienced over the past 114 years to its purest essence – every battlefield Macks have fought on, every jobsite,

every bridge, dam and highway they’ve helped build, you’d probably come away with a truck very close to the 2014 Mack Titan.

Titan is Mack’s heavy-haul/severe-service Big Dog: A beast of a truck with a 265-inch wheelbase, a

44,000-pound Mack S440 rear axle and a 605-horsepower Mack MP10 diesel engine under the hood. In an age where Mack is known as an aerodynamic and fuel economy leader, the Titan is a throwback to an age when trucks got their work

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 37

trucks | continued done by dint of sheer, brute force.

Titan isn’t a new truck, exactly.

Mack debuted the model back in 2006 – just in time to watch the economy – and the construction sector in particularly – crash spectacularly. Since then, the company hasn’t bothered to do much in the way of promoting the truck, preferring to wait patiently until things improved. But things are starting to look up for construction, so when I asked Mack about getting behind the wheel of a Titan, they were only too happy to oblige.

For a good indicator of how tough Titan is, you just need to reference the Australian Outback, where the truck is a preferred hauler pulling road trains across the barren desert wastes. According to Mack, the Titan currently holds the record Down Under for the largest road train haul on the books.

With numbers like that backing it up, it was a sure bet my Titan – which had just returned from do-

38 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Large, easy-to-read gauges provide information at a glance. ing booth duty at ConExpo – was more than up to hauling a flatbed loaded with 80,000 pounds of concrete barricades.

Stu Russoli, Mack’s product manager for vocational market segments, told me this particular truck is spec’d especially for Texas oil field work,

and as such comes with the aforementioned longer wheelbase and high-horsepower diesel engine as well as extra goodies like a 52-inch axle spacing, Mack 18-speed manual transmission and top-of-the-line Rawhide interior package.

This is a truck that looks good

FIND YOUR BEST

TIRE TRACK &

Options on Bobcat.com

Choosing the right tires and tracks is essential for better traction, flotation and overall performance. Because they’re made for Bobcat® equipment, Bobcat and EarthForce® tires and tracks deliver superior results in severe job conditions. When you pick Bobcat and EarthForce, you benefit from tires that are properly sized, with thicker sidewalls and more rubber. Tracks feature a smooth ride with continuous cables and embedded steel to withstand the toughest environments. If you depend on performance, reliability and results, count on genuine Bobcat and EarthForce tracks and tires.

Bobcat.com/PartsAndService/TiresAndTracks Bobcat ® and the Bobcat logo are registered trademarks of Bobcat Company in the United States and various other countries. ©2014 Bobcat Company. All Rights Reserved. | P134B

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trucks | continued in shining black with a gold Mack Bulldog sitting proudly on the nose: Those in the know understand a gold Bulldog signifies an all-Mack power and drivetrain on the truck: from the engine bay all the way to the rear axles.

Despite its size, visibility from the driver’s seat in a Titan tractor is extremely good. The height of the cab, combined with some artful engineering work up front means this visibility holds true even looking out to the front of the truck, over the long-nosed hood required to give the Mack MP10 engine a home.

Speaking of the MP10, I cannot say enough good things about it. Russoli, a native of Allentown, had picked a fairly demanding route up and over the Blue Ridge Mountains outside Allentown for our drive. Thanks to the generous 2,060 foot-pounds of torque and 605 on-demand horses, the truck never faltered. It could easily pull tough mountain grades and even accelerate while doing so. And on the

downslope, the MP10’s PowerLeash engine brake easily held the heavily loaded truck at my desired speed with minimal braking.

As big as Titan is, with a long, oil field flatbed behind it, in-town maneuvering takes a bit of patience. Of course, in a truck this big, if you need to grab an extra lane or two to make a tight turn, nobody’s going contest you. But the deep, front axle wheel cuts and the excellent side and rear views help tremendously in heavy traffic and in tight surroundings. Even better, the MP10 engine provides plenty of up-front oomph to get the truck moving in a hurry and help keep traffic flowing all around you.

Out on the road, Titan handles like a much smaller truck. It’s not unusual for a truck of this size, pulling such a heavy load, to wander around at highway speeds. But Titan does no such thing. The truck is extremely docile at cruise speeds with precise, smooth handling.

Braking was also surprisingly

responsive. My Titan featured 17-inch front air disc brakes that provided sure stopping power on demand.

This is a truck that never feels like its in danger of getting away from you – no matter how much payload you’ve got behind you.

In the cab, the slate gray, Rawhide interior with button-tuck upholstery contrasted well with the brushed aluminum dash and door facings.

Mack pays attention to driver comforts with its air suspension seat, well-designed armrests and control placements and infinitely adjustable steering wheel. Large, easy-to-read gauges provide critical information at a glance, while Mack’s center-dash mounted driver information center gives a wealth of in-depth vehicle intelligence, including instant MPG numbers and driver “sweet spot” coaching to help insure consistent fuel economy performance.

If tough work in tough terrain is your job description, then the Titan is a truck that’s well worth a test drive.

Easily mountable and transferable portable engine driven air compressor

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MAKE LESS WORK OUT OF WORK. People think truck drivers simply drive, but we know better. Standing between you and Job Well Done are all sorts of distractions. We introduced I-Shift, our automated manual transmission, so shifting isn’t one of them. It can help you stay focused, productive and safe – the true goals of every professional driver. This is why I-Shift is standard on every new Volvo truck. Learn more at volvotrucks.us.com.

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pro pickup | by Bruce W. Smith

ROAD TEST:

GREEN SUPER DUTY The 2014 Roush CleanTech 6.2L F-250 4x4 runs like money in the bank

Propane vs unleaded The difference in fuel price between either gas or diesel and propane autogas is tempered by the latter’s lower energy content, or BTU. “Propane autogas is about 15 percent less efficient than today’s unleaded, which contains at least 10-percent ethanol,” says Roush CleanTech’s Steve Whaley, director of business development.

Propane’s lower energy content translates directly into a similar loss in fuel economy in real-world driving with non-turbocharged gas pickup engines.

Still, Whaley and others who are marketing gas-topropane conversions say the bottom line is running propane will save at least 25 percent in annual fuel costs over identically equipped gasoline-powered vehicles – probably considerably more when other factors are considered.

I

t’s an odd feeling when you turn the ignition key and nothing happens. At first you think something is wrong. You wait. Silence. A couple of seconds pass and you hear a faint click. Then the sound of an electric fuel pump comes and goes.

Then all is quiet again. You wait. Suddenly the starter engages and the engine purrs to life.

Those first seconds sitting behind the wheel of a propane-powered 2014 F-250 would be the only hint there’s something different from this truck than a normal 6.2-liter gas-powered Super Duty.

The Ford’s start-up sequence is normal. It takes about 10 seconds when the engine is cold to get the fuel lines and rails pressurized, and up to 30 seconds after it’s been run for a while because the propane is under higher operating temps.

Other than the fuel cap being replaced by a threaded filler, those two items are really the only immediate clues this truck is a mono-fuel that runs off propane.

Of course the longbed XLT I’m driving is plastered with big Roush CleanTech logos on the doors and “propane autogas-powered” graphics on the sides, to remind me the big Ford was set up to

do its part helping make its place in the work world greener – both environmentally and economically.

THE PRICE OF PROPANE Being “green” is a good business philosophy. But those who shell out $11,450 for the Roush CleanTech conversion option on an F-250 are looking at saving money, not necessarily making environmentalists cheer.

Propane power does just that when compared to gas or diesel pickup engine options.

Even though propane produces about 25 percent less energy per gallon than the gasoline we get at the pump today, its cost per gallon, reduced engine maintenance and extended oil-drain benefits more than pay for the conversion.

Propane was selling for around $1.85 per gallon at the contractor level when I fueled up this test truck at Blossman Gas in Gulfport, Mississippi. The sign across the street at a big discount gas chain displayed $3.27 for unleaded and $3.91 for diesel.

That savings of almost a buck-fifty could jump to a realistic saving of more than $2 per gallon if the $0.50 per galEquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 43

pro pickup | continued lon tax credit for propane autogas is approved again this year. Figure that kind of savings in to your annual fuel costs and it’s easy to see the ROI on the conversion comes fairly quickly.

So how well does a propane-powered 6.2-liter F-250 run? Just like a normal gaspowered truck: There’re no noticeable differences once the engine cranks up.

BY THE NUMBERS I took the truck from my office in Diamondhead, Mississippi, to Gulfport Dragway in nearby Gulfport, Mississippi, to get the performance numbers.

Our computerized Stalker Radar system showed the 4x4 SuperCab, with its 4.30 electronic-locking rear differential, ticked off 8.9 seconds to hit 60 mph while eclipsing the quarter-mile with a 16.4 second time at 86.4 mph.

That’s a second faster than the 2013 F-250 4x4 6.2-liter gas I tested last year that was running 3.73 gears, and nearly identical in performance to a 2013 diesel model 4x4 also running 3.73s.

Fuel economy was as expected for such a low-geared 3/4-ton 4x4: 10.6 mpg at 70 mph (2,100 rpm); 8.6 mpg city. Combined fuel economy came out to 10 mpg with about a 50/50 mix of interstate and stop-go city driving.

By my calculations the driving range with this 4x4’s under-bed 21-gallon (useable) propane tank, the smallest Roush offers, is right around 200 miles.

This base-model 4x4 XLT has ON THE ROAD a floor-mounted transfercase When it comes to passenger comfort lever and manual locking front and cargo/towing capability, I give this hubs. This is a good combo for SuperCab mixed reviews. maximizing fuel economy.

The SuperCab’s interior can seat six if you flip up the front split-bench’s center armrest, and rear legroom is adequate for adults on short trips. The 60/40 rear split-bench is easy to flip up/down and the floor is flat so you can use it all.

There’s no doubt this truck can haul a load with ease. It has the optional 10,000-pound GVWR package combined with the Camper Package, so the heavier leaf springs give it a comfortable, stable ride when loaded down.

When it’s running empty, wear a kidney belt. The ride is a full-on teeth rattler. You learn early on to avoid every pothole, bump or railroad crossing if at all possible.

But that’s expected for a work truck spec’d out like this one.

For the commercial customer who plans on using its cargo-carrying capabilities year in and year out for hundred of thousands of miles, like the buyer this F-250 is headed to, a Roush CleanTech propane F-250 4X4 should be a good choice.

Just don’t freak Gasoline Gallon Equivalent out the first couple times you Fuel economy depends on the BTUs of thermal energy turn the key to each gallon of a fuel delivers. The higher the BTU, the start it up. Silence better the mpg. is green at work.

The list below shows how the BTUs of conventional

Basic Specifications Make/Model: MSRP: Engine:

2014 Ford F-250 SRW 4x4 SuperCab LB $41,830; as tested: $53,280 385-hp 6.2L V-8 w/ Roush CleanTech Propane Conversion Transmission: 6-speed automatic Axle Ratio: 4.30:1 w/ electronic locking rear diff Fuel Tank: Propane/21 useable gallons Fuel Economy (Observed): 10.6mpg hwy/8.6mpg city Tow Rating: 12,500 lbs (conventional); 15,300 lbs. (gooseneck/5th wheel) Performance: • 0-60mph: 8.9 sec • ¼-mile: 16.4 sec @ 86.4 mph • Braking, 60mph-0: 136.6 feet 44 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

pickup fuels compare to 1 gallon of regular unleaded gasoline. This is called the “gasoline gallon equivalent” or GGE. Note, the majority of gasoline found today for vehicle use is E-10 (90% gasoline/10% ethanol): GGE

BTU/gallon Change

Diesel #2

.88

129,500

+13%

Gasoline / Regular Unleaded

1.00

114,100

0

Gasoline / E-10

1.019 111,836

-2%

Propane

1.35

84,300

-26%

Gasoline / E-85

1.39

81,800

-28%

Links: Roush CleanTech: www.roushcleantech.com Gasoline Gallon Equivalent: http://www.energyalmanac.ca.gov/ transportation/gge.html

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pro pickup | continued

IN THE TOW

T

46 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Conventional Towing: The term means different things for different pickups

Pickup Trucks 101: erms automotive manufacturers use seem so basic on the face of things, yet when you actually take time to read their full meaning, sometimes that

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pro pickup | continued initial understanding isn’t so cutand-dried. This is especially true when it comes to the terms pickup manufacturers use related to towing capacities.

Take the terms “conventional towing,” and “conventional trailering,” for example. One or the other is used in pickup manufacturers’ towing guides and in the owner’s manuals related to the maximum trailer towing capacity of the vehicle.

Most truck owners assume the two terms, which are interchangeable, mean towing using the standard trailer hitch-and-ball instead of a 5th wheel or gooseneck setup.

They’d be correct.

But it’s more complicated than that. The numbers and charts under those terms also include the use of weight-distributing (WD) hitches and pintle-style hitches. So in reality, the definition of con-

ventional towing depends on how heavy the trailer is, the type of pickup doing the towing and how it’s equipped as to engine type and axle ratio.

With respect to conventional towing when using a receiver-type hitch, most manufacturers’ model/ year-specific towing charts say ½-ton pickups must use a weightdistributing-type hitch on trailers weighing more than 5,000 pounds.

(GM is the one exception: 2014 and newer require WD hitches be used when the trailer weight exceeds 7,000 pounds.)

Heavy-duty pickups – those that fall in the 2500/3500/4500 group – vary considerably from brand-tobrand in the conventional-towing requirements where towing using the factory receiver hitch with a ball or pintle hook setup changes to a WD hitch.

Example: Ford towing guides

state the maximum conventional tow rating for 2014 gas-powered F-250/F-350 single-rear-wheel (SRW) pickups using the factory receiver hitch and a tow ball is 6,000 pounds. It’s 8,000 pounds for the diesel and dual-rear-wheel (DRW) models including the F-450.

The use of a WD hitch is “optional” up to an 18,000-pound loaded trailer weight on GM’s 2015 heavy-duty pickups, according to the chart in Section 9-69 of the owner’s manual.

Conventional towing in the broadest sense means towing from the bumper or the receiver hitch.

But there are more limitations under that term when it comes to the actual type of hitch that’s used when trailered loads reach certain weights. For both safety and liability reasons, it pays to study those limitations closely before hitting the road with trailer-in-tow.

48 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com SNG_half page_EWSG13.indd 1

7/11/13 9:40 AM

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Untitled-55 1

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• Solves the toughest cooling problems • Replaces on/off fan drives • Precision temperature control in all climates • Plug-and-play installation kit • Long, maintenance-free service life • Sealed against dust and moisture For even more efficiency, combine the Modulator Variable-Speed Retrofit System with a WindMaster ® Plastic HS11 Fan.

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www.hortonww.com 1-800-621-1320 • +1 651-361-6400 © 2014 Horton Holding, Inc. All rights reserved.

EquipmentWorld.com • May 2014 51 4/1/14 4:17 PM 4/14/14 1:16 PM

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EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

The best plan for a stronger foundation...

A few “rules” about usage: 1.) Make every effort to have white letters. If logo is on white background, use the light orange version.

2.) In most cases, the logo should always be aligned bottom left.

3.) Please don’t delete the blue sphere.

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1-800-267-2665 • sales@hammondac.com • www.hammondac.com EquipmentWorld.com • May 2014 Untitled-30 1

55

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Atlantic Screen_EW0305pg149

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ATLANTIC SCREEN & MANUFACTURING, INC.

CRIBE

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Manufacturers of Slotted & Perforated Pipe ranging from 1/2" to 24" in diameter

Only $29.95 for 12 monthly issues.

Send check or money order to: Toy Farmer Publications 7496 106 Ave SE LaMoure ND 58458-9404

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Credit card orders call 1-800-533-8293

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EquipmentWorld.com • May 2014

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EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

The best plan for a stronger foundation...

Encourage Excellence!

Let us help you recognize your workforce!

A few “rules” about usage: 1.) Make every effort to have white letters. If logo is on white background, use the light orange version.

2.) In most cases, the logo should always be aligned bottom left.

3.) Please don’t delete the blue sphere.

Any questions, please contact Tony Brock,.

EW Logo white w/color stroke

EW Logo with drop shadow

CUSTOM AWARDS FOR:

• • • • •

EW Logo NO drop shadow

Visit us at www.equipmentworld.com

Safety Innovation Years of Service Leadership

And so much more!

Visit AwardCompany.com to see our full line of awards and recognition products or call for a quote 1.800.633.2021.

EW Logo color (0c, 30m, 100y, ok)

ON GRADE... AUTOMATICALLY!

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EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

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60

1

May 2014 • EquipmentWorld.com

12/16/11

2:48 PM

Over-The-Tire Tracks for Skid Steer Loaders

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equipmentworld.com | May 2014

Ad Index

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2014

Equipment World May, 2014

FREE Product Information There are 4 ways to have these companies provide you with their product and service information 1

Text:

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Call: CONTRACTORThe advertiser’s

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3

O F T HE

YEAR

www.eqwinfo.com Phone/contact

Advertiser

JEREMY HILTZ 60 FREIGHTLINER CORPORATION

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16

ANTRAQUIP

www.antraquip.net

60

ATI LEVEL BEST GRADING SYSTEM

800-342-0905

ATI LEVEL BEST GRADING SYSTEM

AEMP

800-369-5365

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number is listed below

4

8

800-633-5953

36 B

GRIFFIN DEWATERING CORP

713-671-7000

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GROUSER PRODUCTS

www.grouser.com

60

58

HARBOR FREIGHT

800-423-2567

45

800-342-0905

60

HAMMOND AIR CONDITIONING LTD

800-267-2665

55

ATLANTIC SCREEN & MFG

302-684-3197

56

HORTON INC.

800-621-1320

51

AWARD COMPANY OF AMERICA

800-633-5953

55

HYUNDAI CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT

www.hceamericas.com

41

AWARD COMPANY OF AMERICA

800-633-5953

56

INTEC

888-468-3254

53

AWARD COMPANY OF AMERICA

800-633-5953

58

JAMAR TECHNOLOGIES INC

800-776-0940

53

BEKA-MAX OF AMERICA

866-232-8224

53

JLG INDUSTRIES INC

877-554-5438

47

BOBCAT

877-505-3580

25

JOHN DEERE CONSTRUCTION

www.johndeere.com

BC

BOBCAT PARTS OPERATION

877-505-3580

39

KAWASAKI

www.getkawasakiloaders.com 17

BRON

800-263-1060

55

KOBELCO

www.kobelcounleashed.com

10

BTI, BREAKER TECH INC

440-542-3720

60

LOCK- N- LUBE

800-776-0940

54

* CAT DELTA

www.cat.com

36A

MATTRACKS

877-436-7800

CATERPILLAR INC.

www.cat.com

32/33

* MILLER BRADFORD

www.miller-bradford.com

CATERPILLAR INC.

www.cat.com

21

PREMIER AUGER

866-458-0008

57

CHEVRON COMMERCIAL LUBRICANTS

www.chevrondelo.com

31

RAM TRUCKS

www.ramtrucks.com

2,3

CLEARSPAN FABRIC STRUCTURES

866-643-1010

51

ROADRUNNER CONSTRUCTION EQUIP.

800-776-0940

54

CNH AMERICA, LLC/CASE CE

www.casece.com

ROTOBEC

250-765-1161

51

CONTR DREAM PACKAGE PROMO

800-633-5953

28

RUBBERTRAX, INC.

770-760-1227

57

COY CONGRATS

800-633-5953

28

SCHAEFER ENTERPRISES

800-626-6046

54

CRYSTEEL

800-533-0494

60

STELLAR INDUSTRIES

800-321-3741

23

DOMINION EQUIPMENT PARTS, LLC

800-365-7260

59

TOP BID

800-633-5953

48

DOOSAN INFRACORE AMERICA CORP

877-613-7970

35

TOY TRUCK & CONSTRUCTION

www.gettoyloaders.com

56

DRB AMERICA

888-460-4450

56

TRAIL KING

800-843-3324

DRB AMERICA

888-460-4450

60

TRIMBLE

www.trimble.com

EQUIPMENT WORLD MOBILE

www.equipmentworld.com on GF

TSI/SSG

800-223-4540

54

EQUIPMENTWORLD.COM

www.equipmentworld.com

55

VANAIR MANUFACTURING, INC.

800-776-0940

40

EQUIPMENTWORLD.COM

www.equipmentworld.com

58

VMAC

www.vmacair.com

38

EXPANDER AMERICAS

888-935-3889

59

VOLVO TRUCKS NORTH AMERICA

www.volvotrucksus.com

42

EZ OIL DRAIN

877-693-9645

54

WHAYNE SUPPLY CO

800-494-2963

59

FAB FOURS

www.fabfours.com

46

WIRTGEN AMERICA INC

615-501-0600

14

FELLING TRAILERS

877-820-6584

58

XL SPECIALIZED TRAILERS

877-283-4852

57

FORD COMMERCIAL TRUCK

www.ford.com

13

ALTURNAMATS

4

53 26/27

7 IBC/63

* Indicates regional splits

EquipmentWorld.com | May 2014 61

final word | by Tom Jackson TJackson@randallreilly.com

Some advice for women on how to survive – and then thrive – in the construction industry as a newbie

M

y “Newbies guide to surviving your first week in construction” in March brought in many comments, positive and negative. The critics didn’t like my use of masculine references throughout. “How can you exclude women,” the thinking goes, “when our industry needs every worker it can get?”

My rationale is that the kind of work newbies get in heavy construction companies is typically backbreaking grunt work. Just as most warehouses require employees to be able to lift and carry 70 pounds, so many construction jobs have minimum physical requirements.

This is why the vast majority of these jobs go to men. Not all construction jobs require brute strength. There’s always traffic control and holding the survey rod. But carrying concrete block, pick and shovel work, pushing wheelbarrows full of debris, wrestling a jackhammer all day – these even challenge the fortitude of most men. If you think you can do this work, go for it. But if you can’t or you’re not sure, don’t set yourself up for failure.

That being said, I think construction is a great career for any young person, male or female. And women can be just as successful as men if they approach it the right way – which for most means other than as a walk-on, unskilled newbie doing grunt work. Three points for women to consider: 1. Get training first. Skilled jobs in construction are less physically demanding. The

62 May 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

“

pay is better and you can prove your chops right out of the gate without having to work like a beast. Women make good equipment operators. But you need training in order to operate equipment proficiently. Same with survey and layout work. Both skills are great ways to learn construction from the ground up.

2. Don’t be thin skinned. If you haven’t seen Clint Eastwood’s “Grand Torino,” please do. Not everybody in this world is a Boy Scout, and construction sites are hardly bastions of the politically correct.

If somebody calls you “cupcake,” don’t take it personally.

Guys like to rib each other, talk a little trash every now and then. It’s also a way men can be critical of each other without getting too personal or confrontational. It’s code, tribal language. Learn it. Once you get the hang of it, feel free to banter right back. It’s expected.

3. But don’t be a victim either. The exception to point number 2 is that if the language is truly abusive or vulgar or there is real harassment, walk away. Quit. There are more than a few poorly run construction companies out there, and a company that overlooks abusive or immature employees is probably overlooking a lot more, like safety, ethics and environmental regulations. It won’t take you long to get a feel for whether you’ve tapped into a good company or not. If not, there are plenty of good construction companies out there that would be glad to hire a woman and start you on a path to a good career in this great industry.

Once you get the hang of it, feel free to banter right back. It’s expected.

”

move 12 hours worth of dirt in an

8 hour day With Trimble ® Grade Control Systems you get a fast and accurate look at the dirt you’re moving without ever leaving the driver’s seat. Which means you’re going to knock out simple and complex jobs on the first pass.

Take on more jobs. And move more to your bottom line than ever before.

Find out how easy it is to get moving.

Go to heavycivil.trimble.com/getmoving Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

the ConstruCtion teChnology standard

Trimble Heavy Civil Construction Division (800) 361–1249 (937) 245–5154 FAX: (937) 233–9441 © 2013 Trimble Navigation Limited. All rights reserved. TC-184 (03/13)

YOUR VISION. BUILT TO SPEC.

Building your construction business together. You have pretty clear ideas about the equipment you need to succeed. So we used them as a blueprint for our E-Series Skid Steers and CTLs. You wanted more foot room. We achieved it by making the foors fat. You wanted more horsepower. We upped it by 10% on our large-frame models. You wanted switchable controls. We offer selectable ISO, H-pattern, and foot controls on all models. You wanted easier attachment hookup. We hooked you up. To learn more, see your dealer or visit our website.

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