Wacker Neuson Changes the Game with RTD-SC4 Trench Roller

Wacker Neuson's RTD-SC4 Trench Roller was designed to serve the needs of the rental industry and contractors. This new model meets several critical goals: superior durability and serviceability, minimal maintenance, a best-in-class operator experience, and productivity with safety at the forefront. 

When Wacker introduced the first articulated trench roller over 30 years ago, it took the industry by storm. The increased stability and compaction performance over rigid-framed trench rollers quickly launched the roller into the market leader position. Over the years, Wacker Neuson has built on this platform, incorporating features like dual width drums, COMPATEC compaction control, improved drive and remote control systems. 

Wacker Neuson took the redesign of its signature trench roller very seriously. “We defined our fourth generation trench roller based on rental dealer and operator input,” says Roberto Martinez, Director of Product Management and Market Development for Wacker Neuson America. “Through extensive voice of customer evaluations and our own industry experience, we have a clear understanding of application requirements, as well as what’s important to operators and dealers. We’re confident that this new model provides everything our customers expect and more.” 

Enhanced Design Architecture 

Inspired by proven designs of articulated agricultural tractors, the asymmetric design of the RTD-SC4 significantly reduces the number of parts, hoses and connections by more than 30%. This simplified hose routing improves serviceability. This translates into lower downtime and total cost of ownership. 

The new model also features a 1,000-hour service interval on the transmission and exciter system. Additionally, drum width can be adjusted from 23.6 to 32 inches, to fit the application/trench. 

Powered by the proven 19.8 hp Kohler KDW1003 series diesel engine, the RTD-SC4 will run within its optimized powerband for improved fuel efficiency and noise reduction. 

The design of the electrical system on the RTD-SC4 allows for functionality of Wacker Neuson’s optional COMPATEC compaction controls, as well as EquipCare telematics that deliver pinpoint location and a host of performance and maintenance data.

Safe and Efficient Control System 

A new and intuitive personal remote control for the RTD-SC4 puts all functions right in the operator’s hands. No more keys, throttle or displays on the machine, so there’s no need for the operator to enter the trench. Two-way communication between the transmitter on the remote and a transceiver on the machine provides operators and technicians with more information than ever before on a convenient LED display. 

The new control system features a pre-tip alarm, as well as tip-over shut-off and lock out. Both of these features help protect the machine from significant engine damage that can result from a tip over. 

Using proportional hydraulic components, the RTD-SC4 eases into drive, reducing movement of the drums when loading on a hard surface, such as steel or a concrete platform. Less movement helps improve safety. 

The RTD-SC4 uses an optimized radio technology that is designed to overcome small objects, yet powerful enough to safely stop the machine when it’s too far away. In addition, while multiple machines can be used simultaneously on a jobsite, each RDT-SC4 is uniquely paired to only its own personal remote control, further keeping safety at the forefront. 

Unique Features 

Another exciting addition to the new RTD-SC4 is a patent-pending automatic “return to center feature” which, when activated, automatically returns the articulation of the machine to center, when the steering paddle is released. This is ideal for trench compaction as it eliminates constant steering adjustments and fishtailing, making operation much more productive. Wacker Neuson’s RTD-SC4 is the only trench roller on the market with this technology. If desired, “Classic” mode can also be selected for more confined areas. 

With excellent reliability and a simple learning curve for the operator, this revolutionary, patent-pending trench roller is a staple for rental fleets. “This next generation trench roller is a real game changer,” says Gert Reichetseder, Wacker Neuson President & CEO, Americas. “It delivers both the industry-proven compaction performance you expect from Wacker Neuson and an exceptional operator experience. The beauty of this machine is that it combines both technological sophistication, for enhanced control, as well as mechanical simplicity, for durability, easy maintenance and reduced total cost of ownership. So, both operators and rental dealers win.”