Packaged for Added Performance

Emissions-friendly engines and related technology prove the driving force behind many new products designs.

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Bobcat Gets Bigger and Better
At a 3,300-lb. rated operating capacity and a 10-ft. 10-in. lift height, the Bobcat S330 skid-steer loader is the company's largest model. The vertical-lift path S330 builds upon the existing product line, while offering more lift capacity, increased horsepower and an improved cooling system.

The S330's transversely mounted, 85-hp liquid-cooled diesel engine delivers increased displacement and horsepower for added pushing power and drive torque when digging. Standard two-speed travel provides 6.9-mph normal travel speed and 12-mph high travel speed.

The SmartFan cooling system features a variable-speed fan that rotates at full speed only when required, allowing for increased cooling in extreme operating conditions. Automatic engine shutdown with hydraulic system monitor optimizes loader uptime by alerting the operator via gauges, warning lights and audible alarms when irregular conditions occur.

The skid steer comes with standard fingertip auxiliary hydraulic control, maximum/variable flow and forward/reverse detent. A deluxe panel option is available.

Operators can quickly and easily switch between attachments via the Bob-Tach attachment mounting system or optional hydraulic Power Bob-Tach system.

X2 Series Digs Up Multiple Improvements
LBX Co.'s Link-Belt X2 series excavators offers significant improvements over the LX series.

In field testing, X2 models burned 3 gal. less fuel per hour, thanks to clean-burning, fuel-efficient engines equipped with common rail fuel injection and EGR technology. The completely re-engineered Isuzu Tier III engines include a turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler and a four-valve OHC design.

The onboard computer senses and evaluates each load and allocates power where it's needed. In addition, four work modes adjust machine output by simply dialing the engine throttle to the specific setting.

The hydraulic system delivers a 10% increase in hydraulic horsepower. Load-sensing, automatic power boost delivers sufficient power for tough digging conditions or heavy lifting applications. Two-speed boom lifting and arm open/close functions, in cooperation with system regeneration, provide added digging, lifting and swing speeds in 90° applications.

Extreme Control technology supplies more responsive and precise joystick control, improving the operator's ability to feel the load. SMART travel (Smooth Multifunction Auto-Regulating Travel) allows an operator to simultaneously work and travel without significant loss of power in any function.

Every major component of the X2 series is designed for maximum strength, support and durability. Maintainability has also been improved thanks to extended service intervals, ground-level access to service points and onboard diagnostics.

Skid Steer FitsPopular Size Class
New Holland's new L175 skid-steer loader has a 2,000-lb. SAE rated operating capacity, situating it into the fastest growing size class for these machines. The 6,230-lb. unit provides a 4,300-lb. bucket breakout force. Power is supplied by a turbocharged engine rated at 60 gross hp.

"The L175 includes many of the same features available on New Holland's other skid-steer models, such as the patented Super Boom vertical lift linkage for better dump height and reach, a long wheelbase for exceptional stability, fast ground speeds and no rear towers to impair visibility," says David Daniels, brand marketing manager.

A full 10-ft. lift height and 29 in. of forward reach are combined with optimal stability to allow the machine to move bigger loads, enhancing productivity. Optional features include a two-speed configuration and deluxe cab with air conditioning.

Case Excavators Boost Efficiency
Case's CX B Series includes the CX160B, CX210B (standard, narrow and long-reach versions), CX240B (standard and long reach) and CX290B.

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.

The operator's cab is designed according to the latest ergonomic principles. The over-size windows provide an unobstructed panoramic view of the entire work area. Automatic climate control is standard; sensors continuously monitor the temperature settings to ensure operator comfort.

Critical service points are all concentrated in one location, which is easily accessed from the ground. The swing drive is completely maintenance free due to the semi-automatic central lubrication system.

C-series Travels on Both Wheels and Tracks
Volvo's C-series excavators include the EC160C and EC210C crawler models and the EW160C and EW180C wheeled versions. The models offer operating weights from 36,155 to 51,200 lbs. and power ratings from 117 to 152 hp. Maximum digging depths range from 18.7 to 24 ft., with breakout force from 25,066 to 33,069 lbs. Lifting capacity spans from 11,199 to 16,975 lbs.

Specific to the EC160C and EC210C is a strengthened high-tensile steel undercarriage frame and sealed-for-life greased track link. The EW160C and EW180C feature a strong undercarriage that enables jobsite speeds up to 22 mph. The dozer blade and wide-gauge outriggers allow the units to lift, load or grade as required.

All C-series models are equipped with more powerful, Tier III-compliant Volvo engines utilizing V-ACT (Volvo Advanced Combustion) technology. High torque at low revs allows for more efficient fuel consumption. The onboard computer balances maximum available power to hydraulic output, preventing the engine from becoming overloaded, regardless of engine speed or pump demand.

Intelligent hydraulics include boom, arm and swing priority. In-cab operator-selectable hydraulic flow and pressure increase performance, especially when regularly changing attachments. A hydraulically driven fan operates only as needed.

The Care Cabs offer more room, improved visibility, a multi-adjustable seat, pedals and joystick, enhanced suspension system for reduced vibration and electronic climate control. In-cab noise has also been significantly reduced.

Caterpillar's Largest Backhoe to Date
With a standard backhoe digging depth of 17 ft. 3 in., the 450E is the largest backhoe-loader in the Caterpillar lineup. A new extendible stick pushes digging depth even further to 21 ft. 4 in. A pilot-operated joystick control system allows for ease of backhoe operation.

Loader productivity is also greater than the previous model (446D) due to a larger bucket, increased hydraulic flow and stronger rimpull. The general-purpose loader bucket offers a 1.75-cu.-yd. capacity.

High-rotation backhoe linkage eliminates the need to change pin position when moving from loading trucks to vertical wall trenching. Thumb-ready sticks permit easy thumb installation. New combined-function auxiliary hydraulic lines on the backhoe support all one-way and two-way hydraulic work tools. A variable-displacement piston pump and closed-center, load-sensing hydraulics provide quick implement response and speed, as well as high forces at any engine speed.

Power is supplied by an electronically controlled Cat C4.4 four-cylinder, Tier III/Stage III emissions-compliant engine. The unit also incorporates four-wheel drive and ride control. New Cat axles and a modified transmission increase top travel speeds 25% to 25 mph.

To further enhance the efficiency of its backhoe-loader line, Caterpillar is providing the AccuGrade machine control and guidance system as a factory-installed option. Two systems are available. The site reference entry-level grade and depth check system enables the operator to excavate to pre-determined coordinates. The more advanced laser reference system utilizes an off-board laser transmitter to set a grade reference; it is available factory installed or as an easy upgrade from the site reference system.

Industrial loader addition
Caterpillar broadens its industrial loader line with the addition of the 414E IL, featuring seat-mounted joystick implement controls. With just one joystick, the operator gains full control of all five functions (raise, lower, float, tilt and pitch) of the three-point tool carrier, along with the ability to activate auxiliary hydraulics and work tools.

The Category II three-point hitch is fully integrated into the purpose-built box section frame, and is compatible with a wide range of Caterpillar and existing aftermarket work tools. The front loader is the same used on the 416E backhoe-loader.

The operator station is designed to reduce fatigue and boost operator efficiency. A sloping front hood and divergent lift arms allow for improved visibility to the front of the machine. For improved visibility and comfort while operating rear implements, the operator seat rotates 20° from forward.

The 414E IL is powered by a 74-net-hp Cat 3054C DINA (direct injection naturally aspirated) diesel engine. An optional turbocharged version is available. All-wheel drive, load-sensing hydraulics and Power-Shuttle transmission are standard.

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