Packaged for Added Performance

According to Dave Wolf, Case marketing manager, these full-sized excavators feature measurable increases in fuel efficiency and productivity. "During testing, we were seeing almost a gallon an hour difference in fuel use," he states. "If you multiply that times 2,000 hours of operation per year times $2.50 a gallon for diesel fuel, that's a savings of $5,000 per year that goes straight to the bottom line."

The CX B Series also offers a 17% increase in horsepower, thanks to the use of electronically controlled, common rail Tier III-certified engines. The units are rated from 120 to 207 net hp. Hydraulic horsepower has also been increased 4% to 10% across the line.

The ultra-quiet (68.6 dBA) cabs offer independent seat adjustment from the joystick controls, as well as memorized operator adjustment. An air seat is optional. Other features include left- and right-hand console changes, improved visibility and the ability to store up to 10 auxiliary hydraulic flow patterns.

Maintainability and serviceability have been improved 39%. Service features include a green plug for easier, cleaner engine oil changes; easier access to the engine oil filter; relocation of the hydraulic oil filter in the pump house; and ganging together of grease zerks.

More Power in a Compact Package
The Kubota B26 Tractor Loader Backhoe (TLB) produces added horsepower, loader lifting capacity, backhoe digging power and depth.

The unit's 26-hp Kubota liquid-cooled diesel engine provides a combination of high torque rise, low noise and vibration and cleaner emissions. Other features include a reinforced, integrated mainframe and four-wheel drive with a differential rear-axle lock.

The B26 incorporates a braceless loader frame that improves forward visibility. Loader lift height is 7 ft. 10 in. with a capacity of 1,300 lbs. A skid-steer-type quick coupler enables use of a variety of front implements. A third-function auxiliary hydraulic valve is an available option.

The Category I three-point hitch can lift 1,676 lbs. at 24 in. behind the lift points, and stores in a convenient onboard space when not in use. The hydraulic independent PTO enables PTO engagement without having to stop the tractor.

The backhoe produces more than 4,000 lbs. of bucket breakout force and a digging depth of 8 ft. 4 in. A quick-mount system is standard. An optional backhoe auxiliary kit allows operation of various hydraulic tools.

Deere Builds Up Its D-Series
Three new models in the John Deere D-Series excavator line include the 160D LC, 200D LC and 225D LC. In addition to retaining many features of their predecessors, the new models offer faster hydraulics, a redesigned cab, undercarriage enhancements and a new cooling

system.

The 121-net-hp 160D LC and 164-net-hp 200D LC are powered by John Deere PowerTech Tier III engines. The 164-net-hp 225D LC features an Isuzu Tier III engine. The units range in operating weight from 39,980 to 53,936 lbs.

The new excavators incorporate a faster hydraulic system. In addition, a Powerboost feature, available in the 160D LC, provides increased digging forces.

"Improved hydraulics ensure faster digging and more work per hour," says Mark Wall, product marketing manager. "Drawbar pull, swing torque, lift capacity and arm force have improved significantly, as well."

Bucket force for the three machines ranges from 22,697 to 29,099 lbs., with drawbar pull from 38,030 to 45,636 lbs.

Totally redesigned cabs include a fully adjustable suspension seat (air suspension heated seat optional) and extra legroom. A 47% increase in right-hand window glass and a larger roof/hatch area ensure all-around visibility. Shorter pilot controls result in smooth, predictable control with less effort and less fatigue.

A completely redesigned multi-function monitor includes large, easy to read gauges, warning lights and icons that provide operating information at a glance.

Liebherr Gets Into the Compact Swing
Liebherr introduces the R 924 Compact Swing excavator, its first minimal tailswing model available to the U.S. market. The unit has a swing radius of less than 6 ft., yet delivers 32 ft. 10 in. of reach and 28 ft. 3 in. of dump height. Its 164-hp Liebherr four-cylinder diesel engine and electronic regulating system efficiently convert engine output into hydraulic performance.

The new model has an operating weight range from 52,690 to 58,643 lbs. and bucket capacities from .46 to 1.57 cu. yds. Its rugged undercarriage is designed for stability on a range of terrains.