ForConstructionPros.com

In early August, Takeuchi's North American operations celebrated the move into a new 250,000-sq.-ft., state of the art headquarters, training, parts and distribution facility at Valentine Industrial Park in Pendergrass, GA. The move marks the fifth relocation for the company due to continued growth.

Just one month later, it brought dealer and trade press representatives in to tour the new site. At the same time, it introduced the latest additions to its growing line of compact products.

New loader line
According to Mike Ross, national product and training manager, sales of compact wheel loaders (100 hp and below) have climbed steadily since 2002, and are expected to more than double from current levels by 2010. "It's really a good time for us to get into this business," he states.

Consequently, Takeuchi has jumped into the market with four new models. The TW50, TW60, TW65 and TW80 range in operating weight from roughly 8,700 to 12,600 lbs., and are equipped with Perkins or Deutz diesel engines rated from 51 to 73 SAE gross hp. The compact units produce 8,992 to 15,287 lbs. of breakout force and 7,644 to 13,567 lbs. of lift capacity at ground level.

The loaders offer +/- 12° frame oscillation, as well as center pivot steering that enables 40° articulation left or right. A hydrostatic drive system incorporates outboard planetary final drives for efficient power transfer. Momentary push button control of the 100% front and rear differential lock ensures added traction in harsh terrain.