John Deere: Get the Gator
John Deere Commercial and Consumer Equipment recently hosted an event to introduce industry-related editors to its latest product offerings. Held in Sarasota, Fla., near one of its proving grounds, Deere introduced its new 5025 Series tractors. Ranging in engine horsepower from 56 to 91 hp, these tractors are designed to bring more productivity to the farm, ranch or worksite. The SyncShuttle transmission, which features nine forward speeds and three reverse speeds, is standard equipment on all models. Hydraulics are improved on the new tractors with an 18.5-gpm flow rate that allows for faster loader cycle times.
“Operator comfort was a big priority when designing these tractors,” says Mike Alvin, product manager, Augusta Tractor Works. “We've got a digital readout for ground speed on the dashboard display, and all controls are color-coded and easy to operate. The left-hand electrohydraulic reverser, mounted on the steering column, allows for fingertip directional control. And, for ease of operation, a new four-wheel-drive engage-on-the-go push button and indicator light is located on the dash instrument panel.”
The new Z-Trak Mower is a heavy-duty mower with zero-turn radius maneuverability. Designed for heavy-duty commercial and governmental applications, the 997 features a 31-hp Yanmar engine and the industry-exclusive 7-Iron deck. The 3-cylinder, liquid-cooled Yanmar diesel engine provides sufficient torque to power through tough conditions. A fully enclosed engine compartment reduces overall engine noise, making it well suited for governmental requirements. Operators can choose from a 60- or 72-inch 7-Iron side-discharge deck or 60-inch rear-discharge deck. The mowing height can be adjusted from 1.5 to 5 inches in .25-inch increments.
Deere also introduced its new T-Series Gator, a traditional addition to its lineup of Gator utility vehicles. There are three models in the new T-Series — the Gator TS, Gator TX and Gator TH 6×4. All of the models are faster (top ground speed of 20 mph) and more powerful than the previous generation of Gators, while also offering improved braking capabilities, increased payload and enhanced operator comfort.
Ingersoll-Rand: Parade of Products
Ingersoll-Rand hosted a new product introduction recently at its Charlotte, N.C., facility. The company had product managers on hand to introduce telescopic tool carriers, generators and backhoe loaders.
The VR-638 telescopic tool carrier is the newest in Ingersoll-Rand's line of utility lift trucks. It has been redesigned with a turbocharged 100-hp Perkins Tier II engine and hydrostatic transmission, which allows for smooth operation and speeds from inching through 20 mph. Three steer modes allow the operator to choose from 2-wheel or 4-wheel coordinated or crab steer. The VR-638's small footprint offers a best-in-class turning radius, allowing customers to easily access and work in confined spaces.
The company introduced its line of 13 mobile generators, which offer a minimum of 110 percent fluid containment that isolates all fluids from the jobsite and its surroundings protecting the environment. The generators employ digital Intellysis control panels for easy operation, easy location of diagnostic information and easy customization for specific applications. The interactive system allows users to manage generator output and other precise functions to complete even the most complex jobs. All models have single fuel tanks and minimum 24-hour run time capacities, reducing the need to refuel.
Ingersoll-Rand also introduced upgrades to its existing backhoe loader line, which is designed for utility installation, landscaping and rental applications. For increased productivity, the Ingersoll-Rand B-Series backhoe loaders are equipped with the standard Bob-Tach attachment mounting system and standard auxiliary hydraulics with two-way flow for both the loader and the backhoe. This hydraulic system means more versatility for end-users, offering operators the ability to run a variety of backhoe attachments including breakers, augers and compactors. The B-Series also now comes standard with JIC fittings on tube lines and hoses and standard-sized skid-steer loader tires, making it easier for customers and distributors to service and obtain parts for these machines.
JCB: The Dancing Diggers
JCB recently hosted an event for equipment dealers, their customers and media for new product introductions and demonstrations. Along with seeing the Dancing Diggers, participants had the opportunity to see new product demonstrations and to test out the equipment.
JCB's commitment to safety on the jobsite can be seen in its Robot skid-steer loader design. The single loader arm and side door allow the operator to climb in and out of the cab without having to climb over or under attachments or arms, which increases safety and convenience for the operator. The single loader arm shares the load through the chassis to minimize stress. The low-slung loader arm also means that there is less to restrict the operator's vision. Models 160, 170, 190 or 1110 skid steers and tracked skid steers have operating capacities ranging from 1,322 pounds to 2,425 pounds. A wide range of attachments is available for the Robot machines, including a tree spade, stump grinder, auger, trencher and backhoe attachment.
The new JCB Mini CX backhoe loader allows operators to do large jobs in confined spaces. The hydrostatically driven mini backhoe loader powers through jobs with its 20-hp, 3-cylinder JCB diesel engine. Low effort mechanical controls provide control and a simple forward and reverse shuttle provides the operator with safe and reliable drive performance. A full ROPS/FOPS canopy includes a fully adjustable static seat, ergonomically designed controls and all-around visibility.
Kubota: Compact Heaven
Kubota introduced new equipment at a media and dealer event in December in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., including compact tractors, compact excavators and lawn and garden tractors.
Kubota has engineered an optional floating hydraulic angle dozer blade for the KX161-3 compact excavator. A single lever makes it easy to operate and the movement of the dozer blade lever raises and lowers the blade and adjusts the angle of operation. When set at an angle, the blade allows for backfilling while traveling in a forward direction. After backfilling, the operator just travels backward over the ditch with the dozer in floating position to complete the finishing work. When using a trencher, earth piles up on both sides of the trench and the operator must reposition the machine to fill the trench. The angle blade reduces the need for repetitive repositioning of the machine for quicker backfilling.
The new KX71-3 compact excavator features a digging depth of 9 feet, 9 inches, and has a width of less than 5 feet, allowing it to fit through narrow openings. With track and track shoe widths of 5 feet, 1 inch, and 12 feet, respectively, the KX71-3 has low ground pressure and greater stability.
The KX71-3 is equipped with a ROPS/FOPS certified canopy or cab with an adjustable suspension seat with headrest. New wrist rests help reduce arm movement for increased efficiency. The two-speed travel switch is mounted on the dozer level to increase floor space. A short stroke-operating lever requires less arm movement and increases control with only the slightest flick of the wrist.
