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equipmentworld.com | August 2014

速

P.18

The surprising sophistication of new

BACKHOES

8 P. 31

REASONS YOU PAY TOO MUCH FOR TIRES

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

Vol. 26 Number 8 |

table of contents | August 2014

Cover Story

MACHINE MATTERS:

BACKHOES:

NEW AND IMPROVED

18

MATURING ELECTRONICS AND ADVANCED HYDRAULICS ADD NEW CAPABILITIES AND EFFICIENCY TO BACKHOES WITH DIG DEPTHS OF 14 FEET AND GREATER

Equipment 13

Marketplace

Volvo’s Tier 4 Final EC250E and EC300E crawler excavators, Wacker Neuson’s BS 50-4As and BS 60-4As vibratory rammers, Dexter + Chaney’s Payroll Time Entry mobile app and more.

31

Maintenance

8 reasons why you’re paying too much for tires

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014

3

table of contents | continued

Departments 7 On Record Matching the tech intuitiveness of the young with the deep know-how of your seasoned crew

9 Reporter

New “virtual apprentice” video game to appeal to more recruits

37 Contractor of the Year finalist

Dan Thiel and Steve Mueller, J&S General Contracting Osceola, Wisconsin

®

equipmentworld.com facebook.com/EquipmentWorld twitter.com/Equipment_World Editorial Director: Marcia Gruver Doyle Executive Editor: Tom Jackson Managing Editor: Amy Materson Online Managing Editor: Wayne Grayson Executive Trucks Editor: Jack Roberts Spec Guide Editor: Richard Ries Editorial Intern: Brittany Johnson editorial@equipmentworld.com Art Director: Tony Brock Advertising Production Manager: Sheana Sexton production@equipmentworld.com Senior VP, Market Development, Construction Media: Dan Tidwell VP of Sales, Construction Media: Joe Donald sales@randallreillyconstruction.com

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41 Safety Watch Cutting corners on tire repairs can be lethal

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August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Editorial Excellence Special Section Gold Award, 2006 Midwest-South Region, American Society of Business Publication Editors Editorial Excellence News Analysis Gold Award, 2006 Midwest-South Region, American Society of Business Publication Editors Editorial Excellence News Section Silver Award, 2005 Midwest-South Region, American Society of Business Publication Editors Robert F. Boger Award for Feature Articles, 2005 Construction Writers Association Robert F. Boger Award, 2002 Sept. 11th Feature Articles

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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

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WIRTGEN INNOVATION: CUTS FLUSH ON EITHER SIDE

The innovative highlight of the new large milling machine W 200 Hi is a hydraulically driven milling drum assembly that can be shifted 16“ (400 mm) to either the right or the left. As a result, the W 200 Hi can easily work around obstacles or flush to the edge on either side along curbs or interstate barriers. An additional advantage is that shifting the milling drum assembly allows the machine to significantly reduce its milling radius and helps eliminate uncut material.

Wirtgen Innovation: keeping the customer in the lead.

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

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on record | by Marcia Gruver Doyle

MGruver@randallreilly.com

Matching the tech intuitiveness of the young with the deep knowhow of your seasoned crew

W

hen I listen to contractors tell me how they first became involved in construction – usually a tale of early exposure and family tradition – it’s hit me that what this industry needs is a corporate adoption program. But as the chances of our own Orphan Train Movement are slim, the best option we’ve got is growing the raw talent that makes it to our door.

How to develop this raw talent befuddles many contractors. They look at the young people filling out applications, and they see impatience and a lack of work ethic and loyalty. As our 2014 Contractor of the Year Jeremy Hiltz puts it: “You’re not going to be giving this younger generation a 40-year watch.”

Doug Thomas with Thomas Construction grew tired of his own complaining about the situation. With a background as a teacher (see our story on Doug in our June issue), Doug created an old guy/new guy matchup in his company, with the veterans formally mentoring the promising newbies.

“So many young people expect to get a trophy the first week they’re on the job, which doesn’t work well in construction,” he says. “But we tell them that when the old guy says they’ve done something good, then they’ve really done something good.”

“

Convincing the old guys to buy in to this program wasn’t easy at first, Thomas says.

His message to his seasoned crew: “Do you guys want to do this all by yourself? We need the young people to pick up where you’re starting to leave off. If we don’t, there won’t be a company.”

Jonathan Hamilton with Tollestrup Construction out of Lethbridge, Alberta, points out the new guys “have a gift” when it comes to learning technology. “They pick it up quite quickly,” he says. “You need the experience from your senior guys, but you can’t be running a 50-year-old guy 14 hours a day for five months a year.”

“When it comes to technology,” adds Hiltz, “our young guys help foster the older guys. It’s really beneficial because without the technology, our production rates wouldn’t be where they are now.”

“When I was coming up,” Hiltz continues, “you worked your tail off to impress the older guys. You wanted their respect, and that’s non-existent today. If there’s some way we can build that back in, I think we’d have something again.”

Thomas thinks it’s there, somewhere, and contractors should work hard to find it.

“The kids still have it,” he advises. “They’re not different from you and me growing up, they’re still out there. You just have to bring it out.”

When I was coming up, you worked your tail off to impress the older guys. ”

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 7

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reporter | by Equipment World staff

Western Pennsylvania road builders launch “virtual apprenticeship” video game for recruiting

T

he Constructors Association of Western Pennsylvania has come up with a promising way to attract more recruits to the industry – a “virtual apprenticeship” video game.

Visitors to the Future Road Builders website can fill out a questionnaire to see how well their aptitudes and temperament match what’s needed in the construction industry. Then they can click through a mock highway project and see all the different stages it goes through to completion. You can view the game at www.cawp. org and by clicking the “Career Center” tab and then “Future Road Builders.” – Tom Jackson

Volvo CE after truck buy: “We want to work with distribution to keep the Terex flag flying”

N

ow that Volvo Construction Equipment’s acquisition of Terex’s articulated and rigid frame trucks is complete, Volvo is concentrating on continuing the product lineup in North America under the name Terex Trucks Americas.

The Southaven, Mississippi, division will also be responsible for manufacturing and marketing the brands in Central and South America. There are currently 35 Terex truck distributors in North America. Kevin Joyce, vice president for business development, says Volvo also will seek additional distribution in key target territories.

The first Terex products introduced after the sale are the Tier 4 Final TA300 and TA400 articulated haulers with Scania engines. The former Terex lineup will continue, including five rigidframe models, from the 31.8-metric-ton TR35 up to the 91-metric-ton TR100 and three articulated hauler models.

“We don’t see a lot of overlap with the Volvo artics,” Joyce says. “The Volvo artics are seen in high-production fleets, while the Terex brand is

The Terex TA400 (pictured) and TA300 articulated haulers are the first trucks to be announced after Volvo CE’s acquisition of Terex’s line of articulated and rigid frame trucks. going to a more rental-type customer who maybe have just one or two trucks versus a fleet and needs the truck on a more intermittent basis.”

– Marcia Gruver Doyle

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014

9

reporter | continued

Cummins’ E-85 truck aimed at reducing carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 80 percent

I

n partnership with the California Energy Commission, Cummins has developed an engine and powertrain that reduce carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 80 percent compared with a baseline gasolinepowered medium-duty truck.

More than 1,000 miles and 1,500 hours have been accumulated on the ETHOS 2.8L engine over the past 2 1/2 years, demonstrating that this technology is capable of exceeding the 50 percent CO 2 emissions reduc-

tions outlined in the project’s goals, Cummins says. A final on-road validation testing phase has been underway since June.

The Cummins ETHOS 2.8L is designed specifically to use E-85, a clean-burning blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. The engine operates at diesel-like cylinder pressures and incorporates advanced spark-ignition technology, delivering up to 250 horsepower and up to 450 footpounds of peak torque of gaso-

line and diesel engines nearly twice its 2.8-liter displacement.

The engine also incorporates an integrated stop-start system that further reduces fuel consumption and emissions by shutting the engine down after the vehicle comes to a complete stop and the brake pedal remains depressed. As the driver’s foot is lifted from the brake, the system automatically starts the engine to seamlessly allow acceleration from the stop.

– Kevin Jones

New financed construction sales up in May; used sales declined

N

ew and used financed construction equipment unit sales went opposite directions in the month of May, according to figures released by Equipment Data Associates. New unit sales of financed construction equipment rose 3 percent during May, going from 8,000 in April to 8,273 units. Used financed units, on the other hand,

Some companies have you choose power or fuel efficiency. You chose both.

Smart works.

Get both: volvoce.com/Guaranteed/ew

10 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

declined nearly 9 percent, going from 8,389 units in April to 7,664 units in May. In year-overyear comparisons, the number of new equipment units rose 16 percent compared with May 2013 and used units declined 6 percent.

Compact track loaders dominated the top new model list in terms of number of units sold. (This list tends to skew toward compact equipment because of its lower purchase price.) The top 10 financed models sold during the month were: 1. Caterpillar 259D compact track loader, 112 units 2. Kubota SVL902 compact track loader, 102 units 3. Bobcat S650 skid steer, 100 units 4. Bobcat T590 compact track loader, 100 units 5. Bobcat T650 compact track loader, 90 units 6. Cat 336E L excavator, 79 units 7. John Deere 310SK backhoe, 66 units 8. Kubota SVL752 compact track loader, 59 units 9. Cat 289D compact track loader, 58 units 10. Kubota KX1213 compact excavator, 57 units (Note: Counts as of July 2, 2014. EDA records are continually updated.)

– Marcia Gruver Doyle

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volvo VHD 430

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marketplace | by Amy Materson | AMaterson@randallreilly.com

ACCELERATED CYCLE TIMES ED I PI TOR’S CK

Quick specs: Specifications

EC250E

EC300E

Engine

Volvo D8J

Volvo D8J

Rated output at 1,800 rpm

213 hp

240 hp

Breakout force

34,270 ft-lbs; 37,290 ft-lbs (boost)

37,660 ft-lbs; 40,970 ft-lbs (boost)

Bucket capacity

0.7 - 2.0 cubic yards

0.7 - 2.0 cubic yards

Max dig reach

34 ft

35 ft 2 in

Max dig depth

23 ft 2 in

24 ft 1 in

At reach/height

20 / 5 ft

20 / 5 ft

Operating weight

56,430 - 63,790 lbs

64,270 - 72,260 lbs

Volvo Construction Equipment keyed in on efficiency gains with the launch of the Tier 4 Final EC250E and EC300E crawler excavators, which has features that optimize hydraulic flow while minimizing pressure losses. With the ability to manually control the flow to the hydraulics using an integrated work mode system, the operator can choose the work mode based on the job.

A boost in productivity is achieved with Volvo’s ECO mode, which reduces fuel usage without reducing performance. An optional automatic idling and auto-engine shutdown system allows the operator to set the controls for between 3 and 20 seconds, after which the engine speed will be automatically reduced to idle if the machine’s controls are inactive. If the machine is motionless for 5 minutes, the engine will automatically turn off.

Machine controllability is improved via a proportional two-pump flow that allows for a high quality grading finish in less time. Combined with the full electro-hydraulic control system, the high pump flow also creates faster response and cycle times, and an increased pump input torque further boosts cycle times.

Comfort and convenience are addressed through the excavators’ advanced human machine interface, which ensures the best placement of joysticks, keypad and LCD monitor for control, comfort and efficiency. Additional features include an attachment management system that stores the settings for up to 20 different hydraulic attachments and an After Treatment Control Module that that controls, monitors and diagnoses the aftertreatment system to ensure emission regulation compliance. The E-Series excavators also feature a heavy-duty superstructure with reinforced idler frame, track links and bottom rollers.

EASY STARTER

Wacker Neuson has launched two new models in its vibratory rammer line – the BS 50-4As and BS 604As. Powered by a 4-cycle 3.2-horsepower GX 100 Honda engine, the new units join a rammer lineup that includes 2-cycle oil injection models and premix 2-cycle and diesel models. The BS 50-4As and BS 0-4As feature low oil shutoff technology that detects if the machine has low or no oil and will not allow the engine to start. A purge bulb that evacuates air from the fuel line ensures easy starting, and a compensated carburetor ensures optimum air-to-fuel ratio to deliver air filter change intervals up to three times longer than previous models of rammers. A four-stage air filtration system, available on all Wacker Neuson rammers, includes a main element with 20 percent more capacity than the previous design. The rammer’s motion self-cleans the unit, and a cyclonic pre-filter provides more efficient dirt removal. Also, a fourth stage filter prevents dust ingestion during filter changes.

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 13

marketplace | continued LOTS OF LIGHT

Illuminate up to 2 1/2 acres of jobsite area with the LM-25-3S-EPL-4X150RTRB foldover light mast from Larson Electronics, which produces 48,000 lumens of light. The 25-foot, three-stage telescoping light mast has a boom that allows for 360 degrees of rotation and collapses to just 12 feet. The mast head, which is removable, is affixed with four Class 1 Division 1 150watt LED light fixtures, and the mast is elevated from its folding position with 1,000-pound hand winches fitted with 3/16-inch cable. The lights are suitable for wet areas and are explosion proof. Each fixture produces 12,000 lumens of high intensity light while drawing just 150 watts at 1.25 amps from a 120-volt electrical system. The unit’s tower features an optional 5-15 straight blade plug, 5-20 twist lock plug or a 6-20 twist lock plug. A 44-inch-wide, 2- by 2- by1/4-inch-thick mounting plate is attached to the upper section of the mast, providing a stable platform for the four light fixtures. The light mast can be mounted to trailers or other surfaces by a 1/4-inch-thick 15- by 13-inch base plate that has been predrilled to accept six 9/16-inch anchor bolts. The tower, which can support and lift 150 pounds of weight, weighs approximately 450 pounds.

SMALL SIZE, BIG FEATURES

Experience the easy operation of a small unit combined with the advanced features of a large horizontal directional drill with Ditch Witch’s JT9, a 64-horsepower drill the company says is the most powerful in its class. With a Tier 4 air-cooled Deutz diesel engine, the JT9 delivers 9,000 pounds of pullback force and holds 300 feet of drill pipe on board to finish large jobs quickly. The shortest drill in its class, the JT9 can reach and set up in tight spaces, as well as easily maneuver on the jobsite. Features include a heavy-duty anchor system, open-top vise wrenches and an integrated remote display. The operator is positioned near the center of the pipe rack for simplified pipe handling, and the turf-friendly tracks minimize surface disturbance. A comfortable operator’s station features an advanced display that provides engine diagnostics as well as a sliding ergonomic seat. With no grease zerks and daily maintenance points in a single, easily accessible location, the JT9 is easy to maintain.

14 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

YOU DON’T CALL IT A DAY UNTIL WAY INTO THE NIGHT. Quitting time for everyone else is just a lunch break for you. We can relate. We’ve been making heavy duty oils that improve equipment uptime and keep businesses running smoothly for over 40 years. It’s what makes Shell the number one brand of commercial lubricants in North America.* That’s oil that you can count on to work as hard as you. Day and night. For details, contact your local Shell representative at 1-800-231-6950 or visit us online at www.rotella.com

THE LUBRICANTS THAT WORK AS HARD AS YOU. The term “Shell Lubricants” collectively refers to the companies of Royal Dutch Shell plc that are engaged in the lubricants business. *Kline Opportunities in Lubricants, 2011-2013: North American Market Analyses Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE When it comes to uptime, there is no compromise.

That’s where Takeuchi equipment excels. These machines are built to deliver the performance, durability, easy service and operator comfort you need to get the job done faster. See what more than five decades of quality and innovation can do for you. Check out our new hydraulic excavators at takeuchi-us.com takeuchi-us.com.

©2014 Takeuchi Manufacturing. Contact your dealer for current warranty and financing program details.

FIND OUT WHAT OTHERS KNOW. VISIT TAKEUCHI-US.COM TO FIND THE DEALER NEAREST YOU. Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

marketplace | continued PAYROLL COST CONTROL

Quickly and easily enter labor and equipment hours directly from the jobsite with Dexter + Chaney’s mobile app, Payroll Time Entry, which provides accurate and up-todate job cost data. Designed for use with Android and Apple tablets and smartphones, the app allows both on- and offline use, and then synchronizes automatically with Spectrum Construction Software, Dexter + Chaney’s cloud-based construction software.

To use, supervisors or project managers can select the appropriate job and then enter time for all employees and equipment assigned to the job. Personnel and equipment can be reassigned as needed, and tracking enables monitoring labor and equipment costs associated with the job.

CONVENIENT UNIT

Boost power output while saving fuel with Miller’s revamped Big Blue 800 Duo Pro diesel-engine welder/generators, which offer estimated fuel savings of 34 percent when compared to two single operator units. The Tier 4 Final compliant unit delivers a 33-percent increase in rated power output that results in 27,000 watts of generator power and up to 800 amps of weld power for a single operator, or 400 amps each for two weld operators. Additional inverters can be plugged into the machines to create a multi-operator work platform, enabling operators to weld and use three-phase power simultaneously. The Big Blue 800 Duo Pro also features improved weld control, increasing arc quality and improving welding output for better welds on thicker material. Designed to perform well in applications with limited space, the unit also offers lower maintenance costs when compared to two separate machines. The Air Pak model includes an Ingersoll Rand screw-type compressor with a 30,000-hour life expectancy for gouging in heavy equipment repairs and maintenance. The compressor supplies up to 60 cfm of air at 100 psi with a 100-percent duty cycle, enabling pneumatic tool operation.

AN E.P.I.C. GENERATION EFFICIENT. POWERFUL. INTELLIGENT. COMFORTABLE. 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 | August 2014 17

machine matters | by Richard Ries

BACKHOES Is there a compelling reason for you to invest in the new models?

T

he 2013 Equipment World Spec Guide had 10 new models of backhoes in the 14-foot and greater categories. This year, there’s only one new model.

Since Tier 4 Final is set to come into effect next January 1 for most engines used in this backhoe size class, we wondered what manufacturers have done in addition to meeting these emissions regs. Is there a compelling reason for customers to invest in current models?

18 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

In response, all OEMs say they’ve gone way beyond the Tier 4 upgrade, making significant improvements to their large backhoes. Katie Pullen, brand marketing manager at Case Construction Equipment, summed it up by saying, “It’s actually a very exciting time in backhoe loader development. The market has remained strong as manufacturers have really stepped up their game in the last few years in terms of added features, capabilities and efficiency.”

Much of what’s new relies on maturing electronics and advanced hydraulics. One example is a system to damp rocking-horse oscillations during lift and carry, increasing operator comfort and decreasing bucket spillage. Other examples include auto idle, auto shutdown, and multiple user-selectable work modes. Once offered only in larger machines, these features have come down to smaller models of

all types of equipment. The net effect for customers is improved productivity and lowered costs. Reduced fuel consumption makes a big contribution to that cost reduction.

Delivering 74 horsepower, the JCB 3CX is powered by a Tier4 Final JCB Ecomax diesel engine that consumes around 2.3 gallons of fuel. With a maximum bucket breakout force of 13,603 pound-feet, the backhoe has a parallel lift loader geometry, reversible stabilizer feet, plus a reinforced excavator end. jcb.com

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 19

machine matters | continued Ranging from 17,500 to 19,500 pounds, Volvo’s BL60B and BL70B backhoe loaders use a D3.8H four-cylinder 3.8-liter Volvo engine.

The machines are fitted with two floor-mounted ergonomic levers, and feature a small turning radius, a narrow, tall arch designed boom and a one-piece chassis. volvoce.com

Understanding lower fuel costs Features such as auto idle and auto shutdown can make a big difference in fuel consumption, but if your operators already use fuelconserving practices – by minimizing idling time, for example – the impact of these features will be reduced. Work modes also help reduce fuel costs and it’s hard for even a good operator to replicate the effect of work modes through careful operating practices.

Some manufacturers’ comparisons of fuel consumption are overall numbers of a new machine compared to its predecessor. Some are numbers for specific applications or may be comparisons to competitors’ machines. There is no construction equivalent to the EPA’s test cycle for determining mileage in passenger 20 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

vehicles, so it’s up to customers to understand the numbers offered

by OEMs. It’s not that manufacturers are being deceptive, but in the absence of standardized reporting they’re free to present numbers as they wish.

JCB is among the companies offering big-picture fuel numbers for all the models it makes, including backhoes. “By early next year we will have saved our customers a staggering 264 million gallons of fuel,” says Tim Burnhope, JCB’s chief innovation and growth officer. “The machines that we sell in 2014 alone will help our customers to save 80 million gallons in their first year of use, when compared to the machines that we were selling in 2010.”

JCB’s 3CX backhoe loader from

2010 consumed about 2.3 gallons per hour. In current 3CX ECO models, the number is about 1.6 gph.

Part of the improvement comes from JCB’s Ecomax engines, which have been optimized for Tier 4 Final. Part of it comes from electronic control systems. EcoDig harmonizes output from three hydraulic pumps to maintain performance even at lower engine speeds, delivering up to 15 percent fuel savings. The TorqueLock feature of the EcoRoad mode provides a 25 percent fuel savings when roading in higher gears, an example of savings cited for a specific application.

More tools To further expand the versatility of what are already versatile machines, backhoes are designed to integrate

$ %# !

SWEAR AT YOUR FUEL COSTS. OR SWEAR BY EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT.

It’s easy to talk trash about fuel costs these days. But with good equipment management, you can stop talking and take action. Today’s built-in machine technology makes it easier than ever to spot excess idle time, track fuel usage and get the most work done for every drop of fuel you burn.

Visit www.cat.com/swear to learn more. Then see your Cat® dealer for a civilized conversation about the many ways equipment management can build more value into your business every day.

© 2014 Caterpillar All Rights Reserved.

CAT, CATERPILLAR, BUILT FOR IT, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “PowerEdge” trade dress and Product Link, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission.

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

machine matters | continued The Terex TLB840 backhoe loader has a Tier 4 Interim Perkins 1204E-E44TA engine and an optional 4-speed servo power synchro transmission with automatic shifting. The machine has a curved boom design to provide greater clearance, a dig depth of 14 feet 9 inches and a hydro mechanical self-leveling feature to avoid spillage. terex.com/construction

22 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

better with an ever-expanding list of attachments. This allows backhoe loaders to do jobs once assigned to mid-size excavators. “In comparison to an excavator, a backhoe loader does significantly less damage to the ground, is more maneuverable, is easier to transport, and still gets the lifting capacity of about a 7-ton excavator,” says Case’s Pullen.

Caterpillar is among the manufacturers improving the interface between the loader and the tool. Kevin Hershberger, senior marketing professional for backhoe loaders, points out that this year Caterpillar added a factoryinstalled hydraulic quick coupler for backhoe work tools, Caterpillar’s term for attachments.

The new coupler minimizes the effort and time required for an operator to exchange work tools. The Dual Lock coupler design delivers improved job-site safety by locking the front pin in place automatically when the tool is engaged. In addition, the sliding wedge coupler is self-compensating for pin wear to ensure that the work tool is retained tightly with no looseness in the pin joints. This feature helps deliver enhanced grading capability

when precision is required.

Some attachments were taken from skid steers’ repertoire, such as brooms. “Brooms and grapples are especially popular with municipalities,” says Louann Hausner, product marketing manager for backhoes and track loaders at John Deere. “With these tools a backhoe can be very effective in such applications as storm cleanup.” Deere is among the OEMs providing quick couplers on both ends of backhoe loaders; Deere offers them on all models. K-Series machines have a single loader lever with integrated electrohydraulic loader controls allowing a single lever to control a multi-function bucket.

Efficient operation of this expanded range of attachments requires that backhoes be designed for attachment use. Engine and hydraulic systems must complement one another. Extracting power while meeting emissions standards and improving fuel consumption requires sophisticated engine design. Andy Capps, backhoe product manager with Volvo Construction Equipment, says techniques to accomplish this include common rail injection, higher injection

ONE VS MANY

COMPACT TRACK LOADERS FACE OFF SEE WHO WINS GOING HEAD-TO- HEAD. Before you buy your next loader, watch compact track loaders perform in head-to-head competitions, or take a side-by-side look at the performance, serviceability and durability features that impact your potential profit. Not only do the videos show you which loader performs best for your rental customers, they explain the small details that increase customer utilization and reduce your downtime. Watch all the videos at BobcatAdvantage.com/CTLFaceOff1 or scan the code and find out who comes out on top.

BobcatAdvantage.com/CTLFaceOff1 1.877.745.7813 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. | 1139BB-2

EquipmentWorld.com | July 2014 23

machine matters | continued

The John Deere 310K EP backhoe loader is powered by a Deere PowerTech engine, meeting Tier 4 Interim regulations without aftertreatment components and diesel particulate filters. A single loader lever with integrated electrohydraulic auxiliary loader control eliminates the need for a second lever. The cab has been completely redesigned with a ventilation system that circulates cab air from front-to-back, directing airflow where it is most needed. deere.com

pressures, and injection mapping.

Volvo also added Smart Hydraulics that are load-sensing and provide up to a 30 percent increase in efficiency over previous backhoe models. They have a flow-sharing main valve that maintains balance when multiple circuits are operating simultaneously.

Not all attachment-related improvements are high-tech; some are basic design elements to accommodate the stresses created by attachment use as well as from digging, loading, and lifting. JCB uses keyhole castings on the 3CX to relieve stress at the end of the boom 24 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

cylinder by distributing cylinder forces through the core structure of the boom. The main frame and rear frame form a fully welded unit to cope with high digging loads.

The boom and the dipper are heat treated to relieve stress on the excavator end and have extra plating on their ends.

Volvo has similarly beefed up their backhoes. They offer a lifetime frame warranty that covers the main frame, the loader arm assembly, and the backhoe boom and stick. The warranty is available to the original owner and is non-transferrable.

Buy now or wait?

Emissions compliance comes at a cost for development and for the hardware needed to meet tougher standards. “Case has not yet introduced its Tier 4 Final models or pricing,” Pullen says, “but it’s reasonable to believe that most manufacturers will implement some level of increased pricing to account for the cost of the technology and the materials that go into it. So one compelling reason to invest now is that you know what the cost of a backhoe is right now, but you don’t know

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machine matters | continued The three new models in the Cat F series of backhoe loaders – 416F, 420F and 430F – are center pivot machines that feature a new Cat C4.4 ACERT engine, greater lift capacity, more bucket breakout force and increased backhoe control. The engine is equipped with the Cat NOx Reduction System and a diesel particulate filter for emissions reduction. Each model includes hydraulic refinement, new lift arms to increase hinge-pin height by 5 percent, a composite fuel tank and a new hinged cooling pack to improve service access. Cat.com

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 27

machine matters | continued what the cost of the new models will be in 2015. On the other hand, new backhoe loaders will be engineered with new features and components that help offset any price increase.”

Jon Beckley, global product manager for Terex, says Tier 4 Interim has driven some cost increases in machine purchase price; however, it has also driven fuel savings and increases in torque to improve machine productivity. The list of features introduced by Terex concurrent with Tier 4 development is lengthy. Examples include an optional 4-speed servo power synchro transmission with automatic shifting, a curved boom for more clearance to reach over obstacles, a high-torque slew system for easier backfilling and slewing uphill, a return-to-dig feature that reduces cycle times, a hydro-me-

chanical self-leveling feature that allows for load retention at full height, a hydraulic unload button that controls the loader’s lift speed and boosts the machine’s pushing performance, and a boom and swing locking system activated with a touch of a button. These features are on the latest Terex models, including the TLB840.

Hershberger says Tier 4 is just the latest discussion in an ongoing debate. The conversation regarding the best purchasing strategies is timeless. Some choose to purchase the tried-and-true model with a strong, established reputation in the market, while others prefer to be early adopters of the latest machine developments.

Proponents of each approach can list multiple compelling reasons to justify their choice, and undoubtedly each can cite historical situations where their strategy

worked out successfully. Normally the clearest perspective only comes through hindsight, looking back at the resultant impact. “The unknown factors are what keep us all working to improve, whether we’re manufacturers or customers,” Hershberger says.

In the long view, however, Tier 4-compliant machines may become necessary simply to get work. Once confined mainly to non-attainment areas where air quality was closely monitored, current bid requests and contracts often require contractors to use equipment meeting the latest emissions standards no matter where the work will take place.

“Where local authorities require the latest emissions-standardscompliant machines on site, contractors find Tier 4 Interim backhoes essential tools in order to bid on projects,” says Beckley.

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maintenance | by Tom Jackson | TJackson@randallreilly.com

8 reasons why you pay too much for tires... and what you can do about it

C

ontractors hate leaving money on the table at a bid letting. But how much money are you wasting by neglecting your tires or by neglecting to estab-

Maintaining the correct air pressure is the single most important thing you can do.

lish a tire management program?

The amount will vary, but more importantly your tire costs are one of the few variables you can control.

“Tires are probably your largest manageable cost.” says Guy Walenga,

director of engineering, commercial products and technologies at Bridgestone. “A tire is not a commodity. It is a unique piece of equipment that has a long original life and can be refurbished and have an extended life through retreading.”

We asked some experts to point out where contractors and equipment managers fall short on their tire management programs and what they can do to improve their ROI on this significant chunk of their operating costs. Here’s what they had to say.

1. Low air pressure.

If you’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it a thousand times. Maintaining the correct air pressure is the single best thing you can do to increase the longevity of your tires.

“Air carries the load,” Walenga says. “The tire is just a sophisticated balloon to keep the air in there.”

Under-inflation causes the tire to flex more, which causes heat, which causes the tire to break down sooner. A 22.5-inch tire will revolve about 500 times per mile, Walenga says. By design, the sidewalls deflect as the tire goes into and comes out of the footprint and that movement is what creates the heat. The lower the air pressure, the greater the flex and the more the tire heats up, he says.

Tires should be at their target pressures, cold, at the start of the day.

Tires mounted in duals need to be at the same pressure and additionally not have a variance of more than 5 psi, cold, between them.

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 31

maintenance | continued “That will cut the tire’s life in half. You change the flex point of the tire on the sidewall. You get excess wear in the flange area and create extra heat in the shoulder as well.”

“There is a process for mounting and it’s not hard,” Train your operators on how to inspect the tires as part says Walenga. of their daily walk-around.

“You have to put tire lubricant on both beads of the tire and both bead 2. Off-center mounting seats. It has to be tire lubricant. Not Good mechanics know you don’t diesel fuel, not dishwashing liquid. tighten any series of bolts in linear Then get the tire mounted on the fashion, but Johni Francis, global rim and throw a little air in there, products manager for Titan Tires says he’s seen it many times – some- just enough to get the beads to close up, maybe 5 pounds. Then roll that body changes a tire and torques all tire into a cage and air it up to its the lug nuts by going around in a service pressure from inside a cage.” circle instead of cross tightening.

Most people think that’s it, says “Then you have a wheel that’s off Walenga, but the next step is to camber,” says Francis. “That plays inspect the tire. Look for what the havoc on the wear of the tire and industry calls the guide ring. This is transmits a lot of vibration to the machine itself.” When the tire isn’t prop- a small concentric line, or two on the tire just above of the flange of erly mounted, the beads don’t seat the rim and that guide rib should apcompletely on the flange, he says. pear equidistant from the rim all the way around the tire. If it does not look equal all around, you are seeing a variation of more than 1.5 mm or 2/32-inch, which is the maximum variance alWhether it’s a new office or the utilities that run to it, lowed. Someyou get it done ahead of schedule. times one bead will seat properly and the other will get hung Get productive: volvoce.com/Build/ew up resulting in an off-center tire and a guide ring that is not

Smart works.

32 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

evenly spaced around the circumference of the rim. Check both sides of the tire for this concentric seating on the wheel.

“If it’s not concentric, air it down, relube the wheel and bead and try it again,” says Walenga. “If it still isn’t right, measure your wheel to make sure it’s concentric and if it is, then call your tire guy.”

Walenga also recommends that you use new valve stems, grommets and valve cores and torque them correctly. “You can buy these by the carton for nickels and dimes,” he says. “This is the stuff that keeps the air in that you’re spending a lot of time doing deep knee bends to maintain it.”

3. Bad alignment Proper alignment is another factor in stretching the longevity of your tires.

It’s best the check this periodically, say, every time you have a truck or vehicle in for PMs, and checking the alignment is not complicated or expensive, says Walenga. If you wait until you can see the wear in your tires you’ve likely already used up those tires prematurely and lost a percentage of their value.

4. No pressure monitoring As of 2008, tire pressure monitoring systems have been required by law on all new passenger cars in the United States. Off-road equipment isn’t subject to the same laws but there are dozens of different factory installed and aftermarket systems at different prices available for these bigger tires. The Tire and Rim Association is pushing for mandatory TPMS in off road equipment says Francis.

The simplest TPMS simply tells an operator or driver when the tire pressure is out of spec. Other systems can monitor temperature.

The most sophisticated systems use an RFID device that sends signals through a cellular service to a remote website.

“I can turn on my computer at

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

maintenance | continued home and see trucks running in Africa or anywhere else in the world,” says Francis. “If there is a problem we can phone the tire service overseas and tell them there is tire on a particular position on a specific truck that is running low.”

On big haul and mining trucks monitoring technology can provide metrics such as road gradient, weight distribution, road camber, turn radius, inflation pressure, temperatures and GPS, says Francis. All of these will help a fleet manager better pinpoint operation issues or side conditions that pose risks to tires, he says.

5. Lack of a program Consistently applied, a tire maintenance and management program can reduce or eliminate many of the problems and oversights that lead to early tire failure.

Train and expect your drivers and operators to inspect their tires before every shift says Eric Matson,

manager, global field solutions OTR, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. Check not just for air pressure, but tread depth, irregular wear, cuts or mismatched tires, he says.

Construction site analysis is another good habit to develop, says Matson. “Take a look at your site, and examine the roads leading in and out of it. Are these free of rocks and other debris that can damage tires? How is the site manicured?

How steep are the surface inclines and declines? Is there standing water on your site or has the site been engineered so that water drains away from it?”

You can also profit from identifying the root causes of tire problems, says Francis. Start with a periodic tire scrap pile analysis and look for common signs of premature failure such as: • Separations in the tire and uneven wear toward the shoulder often point to issues with overloading, underinflating or running

the tire beyond its recommended Ton-Mile-Per-Hour (TMPH) rating.

• Over-inflation may be the culprit behind impact damage and uneven wear toward the center of the tire.

• Frequent tearing or chipping of the treads may indicate that the fleet manager should select a different tread compound on their tires.

Establishing this baseline of performance will help you recalibrate maintenance and operations practices and make better tire selection decisions in the future.

If you lack the manpower or expertise for some of these maintenance and tire management programs consider partnering with your tire dealer, says Walenga, “Maybe you’ll want the dealer to come out every Saturday and check air pressure, change flats, and inspect or repair tires to make sure everything is ready to roll Monday morning,” he says. Some dealers might charge for

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this service, Walenga says, but some might throw it in as a value added service to customers who buy a lot of tires.

6. Wrong tire for the job Selecting the right tire for the job and site conditions is critical to maintaining a low cost-per-hour, Francis says. Examples: • Cut-resistant compounds are a good choice for harsh settings with sharp, uneven terrain.

• Wear-resistant compounds work well for machines that frequently stop and start on hard surfaces.

• Heat-resistant compounds are recommended for long hauls at higher speeds.

• Tread depth is also a key factor in tire life, and a fleet manager may consider a deeper L-4 or L-5 tread if an E-3/L-3 isn’t working.

Choosing the correct tire not only reduces O&O costs, but also can drastically improve productivity, says Francis. It’s important to look at

how tire choice impacts the bottom line – not just replacement costs.

7. Untrained drivers Much of the care and maintenance you put into your fleet’s tires will be for naught if your drivers and operators run the equipment or trucks in a harsh or reckless manner. Many tire experts will tell you that the majority of off-road tires are run to destruction long before the tread wears out.

But a little bit of education can go a long way. Studies conducted by Technology Maintenance Council (a trucking industry group) show that driver variation alone can account for up to 35 percent difference in fuel economy, says Walenga. And if you can train drivers to improve fuel economy you can do likewise to reduce tire damage. “Driver habit is very important to fuel economy and tire life.” Walenga says.

Under certain conditions in mines and quarries a tire dealer may rec-

ommend traveling at lower speeds, running fewer cycles or carrying smaller loads, Francis says. Such a suggestion is often hard to swallow for fleet managers, however. In the end, the tire dealer can consult with the fleet manager to decide which provides a greater cost savings – increased tire life or increased production. Whatever is decided, make sure the operators practice what is preached, he says.

8. Exceeding TMPH Make sure that your tires do not exceed their TMPH or work capability factor rating, says Matson.

Every construction tire has a specific TMPH/WCF rating which dictates how much it can carry at a specific speed, he says.

You can exceed your truck or equipment’s TMPH rating by going too fast or carrying too much weight for the tires’ ratings. Your equipment OEM and tire dealer can help you calculate the numbers.

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EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 35

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:

contractor of the year | by Lauren Heartsill Dowdle

Diversifying services resulted in contractors’ biggest project to date

N

Getting started Mueller’s first industry experience came when he was 8 years old, mowing lawns with a push mower.

Then in eighth grade, his parents gave him half of the money to buy a four-wheeler, and he got one and put a blade on it to plow snow. By the time he was 16, he managed the property at a grocery store and bank.

He later partnered with his friend, Jason, hence the company’s name, J&S. Mueller didn’t focus on the company full time until 2001 when he quit his engineering job.

Osceola, Wisconsin Thiel, who grew up on a dairy farm just five miles from the current office, J&S General Contracting joined the company in Year started: 1998 1998 as a silent partner. He Number of employees: 19 originally wanted to work Annual revenues: $3 million with computers, but after he Markets served: Excavation, landscaping, met Mueller and discovered concrete and snow removal services they had a lot of common

either lengthy winters nor a crippling recession slowed down Steve Mueller or Dan Thiel.

Instead, they combined their business savvy, passion for the outdoors, honest work ethic and love for their community to create J&S General Contracting in Osceola, Wisconsin.

Dan Thiel and Steve Mueller

interests, Thiel decided to take a different path.

He had 20 years of experience in the IT industry working as a programmer and project leader before leaving to focus on J&S full time in 2005.

The two brought a good balance to the business, with Thiel as the realist and Mueller as the dreamer, they say. “We always compromise,” Mueller says. “It’s gotten us through tough times.”

At the beginning, they just had a skid steer and a single-axle dump truck. They later expanded to add a Cat 924G wheel loader and screening plant. “If you have a screener, people will come,” Mueller says. “It became a quarter of our business.”

J&S now has mostly Caterpillar equipment, including compact track loaders, skid steers, backhoes, dozers, wheel loaders, pickup trucks, a tracked power buggy, dump trucks, EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 37

contractor of the year | continued

The contractors keep their equipment in a heated airport hanger so it’s ready to go at any time. They have 75 snow removal customers, including the business park, hospital, nursing home and airport.

mowers, smooth drum rollers, tractors and a UTV.

Changing it up Adding services during the recession was a common remedy for many contractors. But Thiel and Mueller turned these add-ons into a thriving part of their business.

Not only do they offer landscaping, excavation, concrete work and

snow removal services, but they also expanded their list of services to include playgrounds for schools, pools, selling hard goods such as rocks, hauling materials for railroad companies and installing an athletic facility for a local high school.

Their work at Osceola High School in 2013 ended up being their largest job to date: a $3.2 million project.

“You have 3,000 customers when you Sitework foreman Matt Adam meeting with Jesse Smith, the general contractor.

38 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

work for a school,” Mueller says, referring to the city’s voters. Before the project began, Mueller made phone calls to gauge public opinion on the project. It gave them encouragement that the referendum would pass and they bid on the project. Most of their employees live within a 15-mile radius so J&S is committed to the community, the school system and all of the organizations in the area.

Their business is also one of the few construction companies left in their area – but they’ve done a lot more than just survive. Since 2006, they’ve experienced a 360-percent growth.

“By having a broader base of services, we run a turnkey business,” Thiel says. “We’re a one-stop shop. Clients can just turn to us for everything.”

While offering a variety of services can set a business apart from the competition, Mueller and Thiel say it’s important to not overextend themselves. Instead, they focus on finding new services that are just an extension of their current expertise.

“J&S General Contracting is a firstgeneration construction company, and they started from scratch,” says Tom Scalzo, area sales manager for Fabco Caterpillar. “They not only survived during the economic downturn, but they actually grew during that time. Most of the time, it’s too risky to create success, but J&S General Contracting shows they’re a company that has succeeded and has grown since then.”

Company relations Forming solid connections with suppliers has been beneficial for the pair.

“They’re another critical part of your business, and I think we benefit from having good relationships with suppliers,” Thiel says. “They know the business, so establishing those relationships is key. I wish we had known that starting out.”

These relationships have been especially useful when they’ve considered buying a new piece of equipment. “If we spend $200,000 on a dozer, and it runs us out of business, the vendor has no business,” Mueller says. “So, they need to make sure they sell us good equipment that we need.”

New heights Going above and beyond is just part of Mueller and Thiel’s way of

life. They donate their time, money and materials to help groups and organizations in their area. “Our community is important,” Mueller says. “If you don’t provide for it, who will?”

They’ll even fly clients in their plane to get an aerial view of a project or take local farmers to pick up an equipment part.

“They are the most honest people I’ve ever met,” says Roger Breault, maintenance manager at Osceola Medical Center. “They’re definitely worthy of industry recognition.”

Not only do Thiel and Mueller build lasting relationships with their clients, but they also encourage their employees – many of who have been with the company for a decade – to do the same.

Each employee has a personalized business card they share with customers, and they wear logo apparel that includes their names while on the jobsite. During the employee interview process, each candidate takes a questionnaire to make sure they are the best fit for the position.

“The key is our people,” Thiel says. “We look for good, down-toearth people.”

Another aspect that sets them apart is their tech-savvy business

model. Each of their foreman have an iPad, so they can take photos and send them to Thiel to show what each has done that day. The company also has GPS installed on the equipment and daily log sheets where employees track their hours and projects they’re working on.

“Pretty much everything they do is above and beyond,” says Chris Wilcox, sales rep for Hedberg Aggregates. “Other contractors see them as good competition, and they don’t like going up against them when bidding.”

3 secrets to success 1 Diversify. J&S expanded their

radius from 30 to 60 miles during the recession, but tightened that radius when the recovery began. To diversify, J&S added different revenue streams such as playground installations and retail sales for do-it-yourselfers.

2 One base job. Dan Thiel says

the company strives to have one large scale project each year to serve as their anchor job. They handle a variety of large state, county and municipal projects, as well as projects such as the hospital and nursing home.

3 Retail. They now offer J&S General Contracting excavated the site to dig the pool and build up the backyard. Their concrete crew did all of the flatwork concrete around the pool and created the patio/fire pit area. The landscaping crew installed the retaining walls, decorative rock, mulch, edging, plantings and lawn.

retail sales of materials, such as screening dirt to sell to customers. “We’ve tried to broaden our base of where we can get revenue from,” Dan Thiel says. “In the future, this will be a bigger part of our revenue stream. We want to be able to provide materials for everyone that wants to enjoy the satisfaction of doing their own projects as well.”

“We can load their trucks and give them anything from edging and fabric to rock and mulches so they can do their own project,” Steve Mueller adds.

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 39

Heavy Machines, Inc. is now your Link-Belt Excavator dealer in Atlanta, GA! Whether you need a compact minimum swing radius Link-Belt Spin Ace for a trenching job, a 470X3 for material handling or anything in-between, Heavy Machines can help.

We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships that don’t end with the sale, and are proud to add Link-Belt excavators, demolition equipment and material handlers to our product offerings.

Stop by and see us. We’re here to serve you.

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

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

Treacherous tire repair

The accident: A welder was attempting to repair leaks to a weld on a skidsteer loader’s rim wheel.

Before welding, the welder attempted to seal the holes in the leaking rim wheel by using cans of a product designed to inflate and seal leaks in tires.

The welder did not realize the sealant would only fill holes in a tire, not in the rim wheel itself. When the product did not repair the leaks, the welder located the holes on the rim wheel and began to weld the holes. The wheel exploded, causing the pressurized tire to blow off the rim and into the victim. The force of the explosion caused the welder to land more than 20 feet from the loader. He was pronounced dead at the scene from multiple injuries.

The bottom line: A post-accident investigation determined the sealant the welder had used was flammable, and included a warning label that the propellant was composed of a highly flammable gas.

The welder ignored the warning labels and ignited the gas, causing the explosion. Furthermore, the welder failed to remove the tire

Illustration by Don Lomax

Taking shortcuts when repairing tires can lead to disastrous results

prior to beginning work, which put him at further risk for injury.

Rim wheel repair Several mistakes were made that caused the explosion in this accident. Before servicing rim wheels, familiarize yourself with the following safe operating procedures.

• Avoid hot work: Rim wheels undergo a heat treatment process that increases the wheel’s hardness. Performing welding on a rim wheel alters the crystalline structure of the metal, which could create a failure point.

This will weaken the wheel and make it unsafe for use.

• Remove the tire: Never work on any wheel assembly while the tire is still in place. Remove the valve core and deflate the tire, then demount the tire carefully

from the narrow ledge side of the wheel.

• No flammable products: Never use flammable sealants in field applications. If you choose to use a sealant/inflator to repair a tire as a quick fix, choose a product without a flammable propellant. The tire should then be removed from service and repaired or replaced.

Remember, once a tire is repaired and ready to be mounted, use a restraining device such as a cage or rack that constrains all rim wheel components prior to inflation. In the event of a sudden release of contained air, the barrier will withstand the maximum force of rim wheel separation and release. Never stand in front of or lean against the restraining device.

Information for this Safety Watch is from an accident, OSHA Publication 3086, Servicing Single-Piece and Multi-Piece Rim Wheels; 29 CFR 1910.177 and the Center for Disease Control’s NIOSH Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation Program. It is meant for general information only.

Date of safety talk: Attending:

Leader:

_____________________ EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 41

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

Una reparación traicionera de la llanta

Illustration by Don Lomax

Tomar atajos a la hora de reparar neumáticos puede resultar desastroso

El accidente: un soldador intentaba reparar fugas con soldadura en el aro de rueda de un mini cargador. Antes de iniciar, el soldador trató de sellar los agujeros en el aro con fugas usando latas de un producto diseñado para inflar y sellar fugas en neumáticos. El soldador no advirtió que el sellador solamente taparía los agujeros en una llanta y no en el aro en sí.

Cuando el producto no reparó las fugas, el soldador ubicó los agujeros en el aro y empezó a soldar los agujeros. La rueda explotó, causando que la llanta presurizada saliera disparada del aro y volara hacia la víctima. La fuerza de la explosión hizo que el soldador aterrizara a más de 20 pies del mini cargador.

Fue declarado muerto en la escena

a causa de múltiples heridas.

Conclusión: una investigación posterior al accidente determinó que el sellador que el soldador había utilizado era inflamable, e incluía una etiqueta de advertencia que señalaba que el gas estaba compuesto de un gas altamente inflamable. El soldador ignoró las etiquetas de advertencia y prendió fuego al gas, causando la explosión. Lo que es más, el soldador no retiró la llanta antes de iniciar el trabajo, colocándose en un riesgo de lesiones aun mayor.

Reparación de aros de rueda Fueron varios los errores que ocasionaron la explosión en este accidente. Antes de dar servicio a los

La información para esta Alerta de Seguridad proviene de un accidente, de la Publicación 3086 de la OSHA: Dando mantenimiento a aros de rueda de una pieza y de piezas múltiples; de la 29 CFR

Fecha de la charla de seguridad: Asistentes: 42 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

aros de las ruedas, familiarícese con los siguientes procedimientos seguros de operación.

• Evite el trabajo en caliente: Los aros de rueda son sometidos a un tratamiento de calor que aumenta la dureza del aro.

Soldar un aro altera la estructura cristalina del metal, lo cual podría crear un punto de falla.

Esto debilita el aro y hace que su uso se vuelva inseguro.

• Retire la llanta: nunca trabaje en ninguna rueda mientras que la llanta siga puesta. Retire la válvula central y desinfle la llanta, luego desmonte la llanta cuidadosamente desde el lado del borde angosto de la rueda.

• No use productos inflamables. Nunca utilice selladores inflamablesIllustration en aplicaciones para

by Don Lomax el terreno de trabajo. Si decide usar un sellador/inflador para reparar una llanta como una reparación rápida, opte por un producto que no contenga un gas inflamable. La llanta debería luego ser retirada de servicio y ser reparada o reemplazada.

Recuerde, una vez que una llanta ha sido reparada y está lista para ser montada, use un aparato de restricción tal como una jaula o una armazón que restrinja todos los componentes de la rueda antes de inflarla. En caso de una liberación repentina del aire contenido, la barrera soportará el máximo de la fuerza de la separación y liberación del aro de la rueda. Nunca se mantenga en frente de un aparato de restricción ni se apoye en éste.

1910.177 y del programa de Evaluación y Control de Víctimas Fatales del NIOSH del Centro de Control de Enfermedades. Tiene únicamente fines de información general.

Líder:

_______________

HERE TO WORK

CAT ON-HIGHWAY TRUCKS ®

RUGGED. MANEUVERABLE. VERSATILE. AERODYNAMIC. ATTACHMENT-READY.

WHATEVER YOUR PRIORITIES, there’s a Cat® Truck for the job. Choose from set-forward or set-back axles, day-cab or tractor configurations and custom specifications to fit your application. Productivity-boosting cabs, vocational-specific engine and transmission options, and bumper-to-bumper support across North America come standard.

You deserve vocational trucks as heavy-duty as your application. We’re built to meet that challenge.

Learn more at DriveCat.com.

© 2014 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, BUILT FOR IT, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow” and the “Power Edge” trade dress, 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

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

quick data | by Marcia Gruver Doyle | MGruver@randallreilly.com

Wheel loaders

A snapshot of new and used sales trends from Randall-Reilly’s Equipment Data Associates and TopBid auction price service.

Top financed new wheel loader*

Auctions

Deere 544K, 494 units

Wheel loader auction prices, 2009-June 2014

Declining prices: Compared with the first six months of 2013, average wheel loader auction prices for the top 10 models sold have dropped 5 percent during the first six months this year, decreasing from an average of $78,602 in 2013 to $74,516 this year.

100,000 95,000 90,000 85,000 80,000 75,000 70,000 65,000 60,000 55,000 50,000 45,000 40,000

$

94,712

Low: Jun. 2014

335,000

2011

2012

2013

Other top selling machine: Cat 938K, 479 units

Jun.

Jan.

Oct.

July

Jan.

Oct.

July

Apr.

Jan.

Oct.

July

Apr.

Jan.

2010

$

OTHER TOP BIDS

Oct.

July

Apr.

Jan.

Oct.

July

Apr.

2009

73,027

Apr.

$

Trend prices for the top 10 models of wheel loaders sold at auction, not seasonally adjusted.

Jan.

Number of units

High: Apr. 2011

Deere 544J, 327 units

‘14

Top auction price, paid for 2011 Cat 980K sold on Apr. 4, 2014,

by Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers International in Salt Lake City, Utah.

$332,500, 2011 Cat 980H, Ritchie Bros., Sept. 20, 2013 in Reno, Nevada. $325,000, 2012 980K, Ritchie Bros., Aug. 29, 2013, North East, Maryland.

00 0 , 5 $33

AVERAGE

00

HIGH

LOW

5 16,

$

07 0 , 3 $12 New

Wheel loader buying patterns* 12,000

Used low: 2009, 6,737 units

10,000 9,000

*Financed equipment, 2004-2013. Source: EDA, edadata.com

2013

2012

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

Number of units

2006

2,000

Caterpillar, 8,526 units

2

Deere, 4,870 units

3

Komatsu, 2,434 units

NEW Up 12%

New low: 2009, 3,026 units

2005

4,000

New high: 2006, 10,119 units

2004

6,000

1

New, used wheel loaders year-over-year change*

8,000 7,000

Used

Caterpillar was the dominant market leader over the past year in terms of financed units sold. For the first half of 2014, Caterpillar had nearly 40% financed market share, followed

by John Deere at around 23% and Komatsu at 11%.

* July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014, includes both new and used financed sales (Note: EDA reports are continually updated.) Source: EDA, edadata.com

Used high: 2004, 10,095 units

11,000

*July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014, Source: EDA, edadata.com (Note: EDA reports are continually updated.)

Top financed wheel loader brands*

Low/High/Average unit count: 274 June 2013-June 2014; prices for wheel loaders 5 years old and newer, U.S. sales only. Only includes bids $5,000 and above Source: TopBid, topbid.com

Top financed used wheel loader*

USED Down 2%

*Comparison of number of wheel loaders and toolcarriers financed July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014, and July 1, 2012 to June 30, 2013.

Source: EDA, edadata.com

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 45

EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT UNCOVER THE VALUE YOU WANT

Equipment Management Solutions (EMSolutions) is built to help you better manage your assets and lower your operating costs. Working with your Cat® Dealer, you can monitor location, fuel burn and utilization, as well as health and maintenance issues like hours, fluid contamination and more.

Equipment Management is just one of the areas where CAT CONNECT SOLUTIONS combines technology and services to boost your job site efficiency. Using the information gathered from technology-equipped machines, your Cat Dealer can help you find new ways to enhance production, reduce costs, improve safety and build the more sustainable, successful business you want.

SINCE 1933 Louisiana Cat www.LouisianaCat.com 866-843-7440

SINCE 1982 PUCKETT MACHINERY CO. www.puckettmachinery.com Flowood, MS 601-969-6000 800-748-3095

SINCE 1927 RIGGS CAT riggscat.com Little Rock, AR 800-876-1021

SINCE 1985 WARREN CAT warrencat.com Oklahoma City, OK Tulsa, OK 1-866-2WARREN

© 2014 Caterpillar All rights reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow,” the “Power Edge” trade dress as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without permission. www.cat.com www.caterpillar.com Text INFO to 205-289-3554 or visit www.ccjdigital.com/info

pro pickup | by Bruce W. Smith

SAFE UNDER COVER Toolbox buyers guide

Toolboxes that keep valuables safe – and tools from cluttering cab and bed

O

ne of the first accessories that finds its way onto a work truck is a toolbox, or in some job applications, multiple toolboxes.

That’s why it’s important to choose toolboxes of the highest quality in construction and security features.

The good news is there are dozens of regional and national toolbox brands from which to choose, and plenty of styles to fit the need, whether it’s a conventional crossbed toolbox or a custom-fabricated unit unique to your business.

There are also a number of combo tool/fuel boxes that are a great upfit for a work truck or trailer.

Combos work well when you need an extra 30 to 50 gallons of

Lock Smart Fumbling through a half-dozen keys just to find the one that fits a toolbox latch wastes valuable time. Having toolboxes with the OEM keys also opens up the possibility that someone else has the keys to your toolbox.

A quick fix to both issues is either ordering your new toolboxes with BOLT Locks (www.boltlock.com; 877-251-8798) – or retrofitting toolboxes that have paddle-style latches with their special lock kit.

BOLT’s Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit ($45) eliminates the need to carry a wad of extra keys for toolboxes by permanently programing the toolbox lock to the specific vehicle’s ignition key.

The kit works with most toolbox brands featuring paddle-style handles.

Another option to consider is upgrading your toolboxes to remote-opening/locking just like your truck’s doors. At least that’s one toolbox manufacturer’s plan.

Weather Guard showed their QuickDraw keyless remote entry system at this year’s The Work Truck Show, and hinted it should be available by the end of this summer.

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 47

pro pickup | continued 2014 Toolbox Showcase

Toolbox Lighting Sometimes trying to find something in the toolbox when it’s dark is a feat unto itself; trying to hold a flashlight while rummaging around inside isn’t the best method, and the cab’s bed light is almost worthless as the toolbox lid invariably blocks good light.

An easy solution for hands-free access is to install 12-volt LED strip lights, either one long piece or a couple short ones, along the back edge of the box. (Use lights that are waterproof.)

Strip lights are easily mounted to the toolbox interior using double-sided automotive tape. They can be wired in to the cab/bed light circuit, or on a separate switch placed on the exterior of the toolbox or under the bedrail.

Good sources: Agricover/Access, Superbright LEDs.com, WalMart and Home Depot. diesel on hand to keep a piece of equipment working when there’s no time to shut down and make a fuel run or wait for a fuel delivery.

When it comes to prices, toolboxes are a lot like the tools they carry: you usually get what

you pay for in quality and performance.

If you are accessorizing a new work truck, or replacing an existing toolbox, here are some of the newest products that will keep those valuables secure and under cover.

A close relationship with your dealer means downtime won’t keep you up at night.

Smart works.

Discover how: volvoce.com/CSA/ew

48 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Brute Flatbed Top Sider Flatbed work trucks are always in need of secure, accessible, organized storage solutions. The new Drawer Flatbed Top Sider from Unique Truck Accessories does all those and more. Built from .100 brite diamond-tread aluminum, these modular tool boxes have drawers that glide on heavy-duty ball-bearing slides and secure with Strattec high-quality locking cylinders. www.uniquetruckaccessories.com; 800-239-2343

Highway Products High-Sider These heavy-duty high-side boxes from Highway Products feature 1/8-inch-thick marine-grade aluminum construction and theft-resistant T-handle stainless steel locks to keep tools secure against break-ins. The doors double as a work space, and the weather stripping is “A”-grade automotive so what’s stored inside stays dry and clean. Lifetime guarantee; built to order. www.800toolbox.com; 800-866-5269

Are you paying $6-8,000 for a high quality V-Plow?

WHY?

LIST PRICES*

VXF85

Power-V XT

$4,849*

$6,162*

MVP Plus

Super V-2

$7,081* $7,282*

Xtreme V2 $7,361*

*Prices are based on manufacturer’s suggested list prices from individual dealer locations (Jan. 2014). Any company, product and/or service names are for identification purposes only. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Nothing Works Like A Dogg! Š 2014 Buyers Products Company

goplowingnow.com

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

Jeremy Hiltz, our 2014 Contractor of the Year, has a great story.

So do you.

One way to make sure it gets told is to become one of our 2015 Contractor of the Year finalists. equipmentworld.com | May 2014

®

2014

CONTRACTOR OF THE

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

EW0514_Cover.indd 74

P.18

Our Contractor of the Year program honors the forward thinkers, high achievers and just plain good people in construction. These are the construction companies that get the job done right, on time and within budget. Their clients sing their praises, their vendors wish all clients were like them, and their workforce is dedicated and loyal.

Sound like your company?

Then it’s the perfect candidate to become one of our 12 Contractor of the Year finalist firms in 2015.

Our finalist representatives receive a free weekend at the exclusive Wynn resort in Las Vegas.

Plus you will be Caterpillar’s honored guest at the Las Vegas NASCAR race next March – complete with pit tours, driver appearances, and VIP tent hospitality.

6/20/14 1:57 PM

Interested? Just go to equipmentworld.com/coy to get started.

Sponsored by:

pro pickup | continued 2014 Toolbox Showcase (continued)

KSH Tool/Fuel KSH Fuel Products designs and manufactures all of its Toolbox/ Tank Combos out of high quality materials. Customization to fit your specific pickup application is not a problem; in fact, it is key to providing customers with an auxiliary tank that provides the fuel capacity/storage you need. www.kshmarine.com; 928-680-6610

LUND Truck Toolbox Constructed with heavy-duty diamond plate aluminum and fully welded seams, LUND’s Storage boxes provide top quality performance. Reinforced dome style lid with weatherproof seal, high-grade locking handles, piano hinge and adjustable strikers protect contents from theft and weather.

USA-made with limited liability warranty. www.lundinternational.com; 800-241-7219

EquipmentWorld.com | August 2014 51

pro pickup | continued 2014 Toolbox Showcase (continued)

Delta Tool/Fuel Delta’s 74-gallon combo transfer tank/ toolbox is built with .125 tread-plate aluminum and includes two center baffles for strength and to prevent contents from shifting too quickly. Two 2-inch NPTreinforced bungs allow for reversing the lockable filler cap for access from either side, and welded tie-down brackets secure the tank in the truck bed. www.deltastorage.com; 800-643-0084

Mirax Generator Box This Generator Box from Mirax Fuel Products is custom made to fit the most popular portable gensets including the Honda 2000. Features include locking front lid and a removable plate on the side that provides air circulation while the generator is in use – and easy access to the pull cord and on/off switch. The removable plate on the front provides access to the control panel, cord outlets and air circulation while the generator is in use. www. miraxfuelproducts.com; 928-680-5670 52 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

Northern Tool Crossover This Northern Tool + Equipment Deep Design Aluminum Crossover holds 30 percent more cargo than low-profile boxes. With weather-resistant seals, locking truck-style pull handles, self-adjusting strikers and a continuous piano-style hinge, this truck box will hold up everywhere you go. www.northerntool.com; 800-221-0516

Transfer Flow Combo Box Transfer Flow’s 40-gallon toolbox and refueling tank incorporates a toolbox with more than six cubic feet of storage space. It fits domestic and imported full-size pick-ups, and comes pre-assembled with a 12-volt refueling pump, 12-foot hose/nozzle, wire harness with dash-mounted power switch and mounting hardware. The fuel fill neck is located inside the locking storage compartment for added security. www. transferflow.com; 800-442-0056

Owens Products Ellipse XPL All Owens Products toolboxes are made of thick diamond-tread aluminum that won’t rust, pit or corrode. The Ellipse Series boxes feature a domed lid for added storage space with convenient and easy to use push-button latching system. They are available in two standard finishes: bright aluminum or black powder coat, as well as 14 special order powder coat colors. www.OwensProducts.com; 800-726-9367

Weather Guard Low-Pros These new Low-Profile Side Boxes from Weather Guard provide maximum secure cargo storage without compromising rear visibility. They are built with heavy-gauge aluminum construction and durable clear or black finishes. WG’s Extreme Protection Lock protects against break-ins while the automotive-style latch provides smooth “one-touch” opening. Three-year warranty. www.weatherguard.com; 800-456-7865

Thule UWS Crossover Built two inches lower on the bed rail for a better view from the rear window, Thule’s UWS toolbox features patented fully foamed lid that creates a rigid wall between outer aluminum layers to help prevent bending or warping. Its .063 aluminum construction supports heavy-duty loads and tool drops, while built-in twin trays hold smaller tools. www.uwsta.com; 800-432-4685

Westin HDX Series Westin HDX Tool Boxes are commercial grade tool boxes made of heavy-duty .06-inch corrosion resistant aluminum with lids that sit flush with box body on all sides so there’s no lid overhang. The lid closure also features a closed cell U-Lock bulb that seals the closure. Lids can be opened from either end of the box with the anti-theft stainless steel folding T-handles. www.westinautomotive.com; 800-345-8476

Looking for safety resources? ..............................................

Equipment World’s Safety Watch articles are now available for download on our website. Designed for use in training and in toolbox talks, the articles cover a range of important safety topics such as falls, trenching, welding, back-over accidents and more.

..............................................

Each Safety Watch features an actual construction accident, and outlines ways to prevent similar accidents from occurring on your jobsite.

AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH and SPANISH

Visit equipmentworld.com/safetywatch

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

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EquipmentWorld.com • August 2014

57

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

EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

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081-135A Equip World 4.5x4.5.indd

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Prev. Users

• 1/2" thick polyethylene • Features the bold diamond plate tread on one side and a finer, slip-resistant tread on the other side • Ideal for 120 ton vehicles as well as Adam Savage/Adam Savage pedestrian traffic Inks

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EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

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RAC Geo II GPS based EQUIPMENT INFORMATION

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The RAC Geo II contains a built-in GPS receiver that can be used for distance measuring in place of an external sensor. This reduces your overall cost since you don’t have to buy an external sensor and simplifies your installation since no wiring is required. The RAC Geo II also saves you time since no calibration is necessary.

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August 2014 • EquipmentWorld.com

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Ad Index Equipment World August, 2014 Advertiser Phone/contact

Page

800-633-2021 56 800-369-5365 60 970-384-0510 44 888-544-6287 58 800-342-0905 61 800-505-3580 22,23 800-263-1060 58 440-542-3720 60 www.BuyersLEDLights.com 49 www.casece.com 2 www.cat.com 46-A www.cat.com 21 www.cat.com 43 www.chevrondelo.com 25 800-760-4049 35 800-633-5953 54,55 800-633-5953 36 800-633-5953 50 800-365-7260 59 877-613-7970 30 562-802-3088 60 www.equipmentworld.com 58 800-633-5953 53 888-935-3884 57 800-633-5953 56 www.fitzgeraldgliderkits.com 27 844-366-8204 29 888-349-4287 46-b 800-458-6684 56 800-267-2665 58 888-468-3211 59

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

1. Text INFO to 205-289-3715. Text

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800-776-0940 60 www.kawasakiloaders.com 17 www.kohlerengines.com 33 www.kohlerengines.com 60 800-428-4800 IBC www.heavymachinesinc.com 40-A 603-765-2298 60 866-458-0008 61 888-375-7905 28 64 (BC) www.rotobec.com 57 866-431-5305 61 877-OIL-VACS 57 800-626-6046 60 800-231-6950 15 800-667-9328 26 www.takeuchi-us.com 16 www.topconpositioning.com 11 888-908-0325 51 800-843-3324 5 www.trimbledmensions.com 40-B 800-223-4540 60 888-907-8050 34 www.volvoce.com 32 www.volvoce.com 48 www.volvoce.com 10 www.volvotrucks.us.com 12 www.WD40.com 8 800-494-2963 61 615-501-0600 6 * Indicates regional splits

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EquipmentWorld.com • August 2014

61

1/19/12 3:27 PM

final word | by Tom Jackson TJackson@randallreilly.com

How to launch a career in construction

I

n the previous installments of this series I wrote about what it takes to survive your first week and month as a construction newbie (see the March, May and June issues).

Assuming you survived and have proven to be a dependable employee, here’s my final bit of advice on how to make a career in construction.

The key in your first few years is to find and work for a great company. If the company you’re working for now is deficient in any of the following areas, keep your eyes open for better opportunities: 1. Safety. You should get at least one safety briefing, tailgate talk, what have you, every week.

Advanced safety training, such as OSHA certification, is a plus, as is a safety bonus program. If you see safety shortcuts, or if safety is ignored, find somebody else to work for soon.

2. Training. It may take a while before the boss deems you sufficiently worthy to send you off site for some advance training, but after a year or so, good companies will help employees start building skills with training courses. This may be an advanced operator course, crane certification or some kind of construction related seminars, workshops or tradeshows.

3. Career. Is there a path to promotion? Moving up can take a long while in a small company, but big or small they should be able to tell you what it takes to go from laborer, to supervisor to a higher level manager.

4. Loyalty. Many companies have frequent turnover on the low end of the skill scale. But if the managers and supervisors are bailing out for an extra 50 cents an hour, the company may

62 August 2014 | EquipmentWorld.com

have problems. If you get the feeling you’re on a good team, you like the people you work for and you’re eager to do well, you’re in a good company.

5. Benefits. It almost goes without saying, if health and medical benefits, overtime and paid vacation aren’t offered, you’re not looking at a legitimate company.

Once you’ve found a great construction company to work for, think about where you want to go in the industry. Are you content to be a well paid skilled laborer, or do you want to do more? Would you like to run your own company someday?

Construction is one of the few businesses you can launch on your own and build up into a multi-million dollar enterprise with nothing more than hard work and smart decisions. Read any of our Contractor of the Year articles (there is one every month in Equipment World) for examples of how this is done. Striking out on your own isn’t for everybody. It’s high risk and high stress, but if you’ve ever wanted to be your own boss, the construction industry is one of the best places to do it.

Construction is also one of the most satisfying careers you can get into. With the right company you will never stop learning and you will always be getting better. The challenges build character and the camaraderie is great. There are plenty of forgettable jobs in this word, but not construction. To apply your mind and muscle to the raw materials of wood, stone, steel, dirt, concrete and asphalt, and build something solid, lasting and useful, there isn’t anything else like it in the world.

You’ve chosen well. Now don’t screw up.

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LANDOLL CORPORATION 800-428-5655 • www.landoll.com Text INFO to 205-289-3715 or visit www.eqwinfo.com

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