Case Technology Simplifies, Civilizes M Series Dozer Operation

Five new M Series dozers all got power upgrades with SCR-only emissions systems, but new electronic systems easily tailor machine response to match control sensitivity to individual operators

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On our recent trip to Case's demonstration center in Tomahawk, Wis., Case was clearly proud of the pushing power of its five new M Series dozers, but we were struck at the refinement of its controls.

“Once an operator starts running it, one of the first things he or she will notice is the increased horsepower of the drawbar pull that all of the M Series have over the previous models,” says John Bauer, brand marketing manager at Case. "We have seen about a 14-percent increase in horsepower.”

There is much more to the M Series than brute drawbar pull. Operators will also notice that this machine can be tailored to match their skill level and operating needs through an intuitive machine interface. The shuttle and steering sensitivity can be set to three different modes –smooth, moderate or aggressive. And on all but the two smallest machines, you can also adjust blade sensitivity. The two smallest machines are limited by manual control of the hydraulic valves, while electrohydraulics in the larger machines offer control-customizing flexibility.

Video: Case M Series Blade-Control Demo

“Job application may dictate how you want the machine to respond,” says Eric Nettleton, global product manager for Case dozers. “Being able to customize that really aids the operator in being more productive. We have gone through extensive customer validation, internal validation and through thousands of hours to put in what we think are going to be the most likable settings for shuttle, steering and blade sensitivity.”

The machine interface also allows you to decide whether you want a decel pedal or a brake pedal. You simply scroll to brake or decel, it’s just that easy.

A load-management system manages power output.

“The computer recognizes the load the machine is under and will adjust the pumps and drive motors appropriately to keep the machine operating at the level that maximizes the output for the conditions,” says Nettleton. This reduces track slip. “You can go from 6 mph into a heavy push and the machine will adjust itself. You will never stall. The machine adjusts the speed range automatically.”

Another unique feature is blade shake. The push of a button on the joystick starts a momentary hydraulic mode that shakes sticky material off the blade to reduce carry back.

“The blade shake actually cycles the tilt cylinders,” says Nettleton. “They tilt back and forth rapidly to shed the material.”

Despite the refined features, controls on the M Series are intuitive. “It is simple and easy to understand without having to pull out the operators’ manual,” says Nettleton. “You can do so much with hydraulic systems, computers and programming that change the performance. It is an easier solution.”

Another item you will notice when you enter the cab is a lack of cumbersome safety gates. With the Case M Series these have been replaced with a simple red button that deactivates the brake from the dash.

Case claims power benefits from the SCR-only system for complying with Tier 4 Interim exhaust limits because it eliminates the exhaust-gas recirculation common on most similar engines.

“The engine isn’t recycling exhaust gas, it’s running at its peak performance,” says Nettleton. The SCR system, with attendant diesel exhaust fluid, cleans up the exhaust stream. There is no particulate filter to clean.

We found the new Case M Series offers technological advances that actually deliver simplified operation, and promise simplified maintenance.

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