Get a load(er) of these
Published 22/12, 2023 at 11:18What a great time to be in the market for a new compact loader or skid steer!
Manufacturers continue to roll out new products with the power that rivals their larger brethren, yet with efficiency and productivity that keeps operating costs comfortably low. The range of electric options is also expanding as well, providing benefits for both sustainability and working in close confines. While specific machines may not be available in every market, or go by different model names, the descriptions provide a helpful benchmark for comparing products and making wise purchasing decisions. So take a look…and get to work!
Kubota introduces SVL75-3 compact track loader
Kubota’s SVL75-3 replaces the SVL75-2 model and is equipped with a wide range of performance, comfort and productivity features. It’s powered by a 55.4kW Kubota engine and has a rated operating capacity of 1,129kg at 35% or 1,613kg at 50%, an impressive 27.5kN of breakout force, and a hinge pin height of 3,117mm. An ‘Advanced Multifunction Valve’ (AMV) helps ensure smooth movement of all hydraulic functions with a lower risk of stalling. The ‘Electronic Travel Torque Management System’ monitors machine load to optimally control hydraulic pump output. Other features include two speed travel and an ‘Advanced Auto Downshift’ system that automatically downshifts from high to low gear while making turns. The SVL75-3 is equipped with Kubota’s new one piece sealed cab designed to prevent dirt, dust, rain, and debris from entering the cab while also reducing noise levels. The one piece sealed cabin can be tilted up 1,435mm without having to lift the boom, providing access to the hydraulic pumps, valves, lines, and hydraulic tank.
ASV’s Yanmar powered RT-40
ASV’s repowered RT-40 ‘Posi-Track’ loader has a 28kW Yanmar engine and features a 1,227mm width, 2.56m lift height, and a top speed of 11.4kph. The machine also boasts high tractive effort, being designed for exceptional pushing and digging power. The RT-40’s quick attach fits a variety of attachments and works with an optional adaptor plate for full sized or walk behind/stand on loader attachments. The RT-40 comes standard with variable auxiliary hydraulic flow and can operate efficiently at a high auxiliary circuit flow rate. Labour intensive belt servicing is eliminated thanks to a direct drive pump, which, along with the machine’s large line sizes and hydraulic coolers, transfers more flow and pressure directly to the attachment to help prevent power loss. The RT-40 is tested to operate at full load 100% of the time in ambient temperatures ranging from 40o to 40o to 47.7o. Its cab features rollover and falling object protection, sheltering operators from outside elements with available enclosed configurations designed to eliminate the fatigue that comes with standing. With 274mm of ground clearance, the RT-40 is designed to travel over rocks, logs, stumps, and other obstacles with less risk of getting hung up.
Mecalac launches multifunctional compact loader line for North American market
Mecalac has launched a new product line of robust compact loaders to North America comprising of six models: MCL2, MCL4, MCL4+, MCL6, MCL6+, and MCL8. The MCL2 and MCL4 models have an 18.6kW engine, while the remaining models come with a 36.5kW engine. Each machine has been designed for transportability between jobsites with transport weights ranging between 1,740kg and 2,850kg and minimal width ranging from 1m to 1.3m depending on tyre selection. Mecalac’s ‘M-Drive’ and speed control features - standard on the MCL6 and MCL8 models, and optional for the MCL2 and MCL4 models - allow the loader to function as a tool carrier, providing control of rpm by hand throttle and speed via a foot pedal. Each model in the series has an option for auxiliary hydraulic lines on the boom and at the rear of the machine, as well as 12v three pole plugs which further enhances versatility by allowing the use of hydraulic attachments on either end of the machine.
The series aims to maximise attachment possibilities with 30l/m flow on the MCL2 and MCL4 models and 60.2l/m flow on the MCL6 and MCL8 models. The MCL4+ and MCL6+ models come standard with a short boom, whereas the other four models come with a long boom. The optimum height to width to length ratio ensures agility on any jobsite. Each machine has a 45o articulation that keeps the front wheels traveling in the same path as the rear wheels while driving.
Also from Mecalac, theAX1000
Mecalac’s new AX1000 articulated loader has been designed to combine performance with self-stabilising manoeuvrability along with a monoboom. Combining large, tinted windows with the monoboom design, the AX1000 eliminates the two loader arms obstructing the operator’s view providing clear visibility and with enhanced safety, whilst boosting productivity. It is also designed to offer greater stability because the machine’s pivot joint is offset at a positive angle. As the machine articulates, the centre of gravity is transferred to the rear, so it can re-level itself, greatly reducing the risk of the machine toppling over. The AX1000 has a standard bucket volume of 1m3, a 56kW engine, and a lift capacity of 4,100kg. It is also designed to maintain lifting power from the ground to its highest point. The machine’s interior features have been updated with the ergonomically laid out pilot control designed to condense multiple functions from the auxiliary hydraulics into one joystick. The cabin includes a multi position comfort seat, glove box with ample storage space and a powerful three stage ventilation and heating system.
Yanmar introduces compact track loader
Yanmar’s TL100VS is the first machine in the company’s compact track loader line. It features a Tier 4 Final Yanmar diesel engine; a torsion axle suspended undercarriage with a pivot link system at the rear axle and large line sizes. Features range from error detection and notification to real time operational status updates and daily work reports. Bar tread tracks are designed for ride quality and vibration resistance. Yanmar has also launched the construction grade TL65RS, TL75VS, and TL80VS machines.
Manitou/GEHL updates compact loader lineup
Manitou/GEHL used ConExpo 2023 to launch three all new ‘V’ series compact skid steer loaders and three ‘VT’ series’ compact track loaders. These new models have a capacity of 953kg to 1,247kg. Breakout force is now 12% higher on average, compared with the previous range, while the tank capacity is increased by 14% for greater productivity. All models are vertical lift and feature a new lift arm design, as well as keyless start requiring only code activation, LED lighting, and a patented pilot joystick system. For added comfort, the track loader range is equipped as standard with the patented ‘IdealTrax’ system designed for automatic track tensioning and extending the life of the tracks. Numerous options are also available to meet the requirements of each user. The operator’s station has been redesigned with an improved version of Manitou/GEHL patented folding door, as well as a new window and roof design for better sightlines.
Bobcat unleashes its most powerful compact wheel loader
Bobcat’s new L95 is the company’s largest and most powerful compact wheel loader. With a standard bucket capacity of 9m3 and 3.2m of lift height, the L95 has been designed for material handling and other jobs that require high manoeuvrability. Its electronic hydrostatic transmission has been designed for easy direction changes, efficient acceleration, and effortless speed control. A combination of transmission and horsepower management automatically adjusts the loader’s drive system to maximise pushing and loading power. Standard features on the L95 include flex drive, automatic ride control, high flow auxiliary hydraulics, and an attachment control mode. The Tier 4 turbocharged engine delivers high torque performance and efficiency, while achieving emissions compliance without the use of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) or selective catalyst reduction (SCR). Bobcat compact wheel loaders come standard with the ‘Power Bob-Tach System’, allowing operators to share buckets, forks, angle brooms, snow pushers, grapples, snow blowers, augers, and other compatible attachments with other Bobcat equipment for even greater versatility.
Also from Bobcat, a preview of the world’s first all-electric skid steer loader
At ConExpo 2023, Bobcat unveiled the S7X, a prototype of what the company says is the world’s first all-electric skid steer loader. Like the T7X, the S7X is powered by a 60.5kWh lithium ion battery, features electric drive motors and utilises ball screw actuators for lift and tilt functions. The S7X is designed to balance sustainability and performance with zero emissions and is said to be equipped to outperform its diesel powered equivalent, all while offering operators a smooth and comfortable experience with minimal vibration and nearly silent operation. The machine can operate for up to eight hours on a single charge depending on the application, giving most operators more than a full day’s work when breaks and downtime are considered. A full charge takes approximately 10h. To bring the S7X to life, Bobcat partnered with Moog, Inc., a worldwide developer of motion control components and systems for industries ranging from aerospace and defence to construction. Bobcat also collaborated with Moog through its work on the T7X. Bobcat has yet to announce when and where the S7X will be made available.
Wacker Neuson’s new compact track loader
Though the smallest model of Wacker Neuson’s lineup of compact track loaders, the new ST27 is said to be a powerful addition to the company’s compact medium frame size lineup. Weighing in at 3,334kg, this machine is easily towable and with a rated operating capacity of 857.3kg at 35%. When combined with the ideal operating weight of a 55.2kW Kohler KDI 2504 turbocharged engine, the ST27 offers an attractive power to weight ratio. The compact design, measuring 1,524mm wide and under 2,032mm in height, is designed for working in tight spaces with low overhead clearance. The design also offers a reach at dump height of 927mm, making it is easier to dump material into the centre of a dump box while also keeping the loader farther away from the vehicle or trailer being loaded. For vertical lift, ST27 offers a hinge pin height of 3,048mm and dump height of 2,395mm.
Driving is designed to be enhanced via a standard auto shifting two speed drive system that can be active or disabled based on the application, with the system said to automatically sense the operators need to shift. The auto feature engages in and out of the two speeds based on joystick input. The vertical loader arm linkage is designed to maximise visibility to the rear. The shape of the rear linkage aligns with the cab posts in the operator’s line of sight in order to minimise visual obstructions, creating a better view to the rear. Additionally, the dedicated track frame design allows for a lower profile loader arm orientation, vastly improving side visibility. The ST27’s cab fully tips forward with the loader arms down, providing complete access to all maintenance components. The machine is engineered to be user friendly with a simple, open design and efficient layout.
John Deere expands ‘P-Tier’ lineup
John Deere has expanded its ‘Performance Tiering’ offering with the shift from ‘L-Series’ to P-Tier for the 244, 324, and 344 compact wheel loader models. The new P-Tier compact wheel loaders will carry over all L-Series features while also introducing new productivity enhancing qualities as standard features. Ride control, previously an optional upgrade on L-Series models, is now standard on all P-Tier compact wheel loaders. Ideal for customers moving materials over long distances, or on hard surfaces, ride control is designed to cushion boom movements during transport, acting like a shock absorber to help minimise material spillage. In addition, P-Tier compact wheel loaders feature ‘Articulation Plus’ which enables rear wheel steering. This steering system combines 30o of standard articulation with an additional 10o of rear wheel steering.
Designed to provide increased ease of use for operators when utilising attachments, the upgraded combined creep control and throttle lock found within the attachment assist controls package allows users to run the machine with higher rpm and lower ground speeds with overall fewer manual inputs. An enhanced ‘pause and resume’ function means that reactivating the feature after a change in direction or switch to neutral is seamless. An additional feature now offered on P-Tier compact wheel loaders is an optional auto reversing fan, which is said to be a solution for customers operating on sites with an abundance of debris or dust. Additional options include attachment assist controls, which include integrated three pin electrical controls for attachments and combined creep control and throttle lock.
CASE’s new mini track loader
With an operating capacity of 454kg and a compact profile that is designed to manoeuvre through yard gates and other tight areas, the new TL100 mini track loader is designed to provide contractors with a powerful, cost effective option for upleveling productivity on small jobs. The 17.7kW machine also features a 14pin electrical connector and a common industry interface (CII) for attachment flexibility and performance. With more than 40 attachment options available, the TL100 is designed for such jobs as digging, earth moving, setting fence posts, grappling brush, and grading. Thanks to its compact size, the machine is easy to transport from site to site, easy to get on and off, and causes minimal disruption to the ground. The construction grade build is designed for toughness and power, empowering crews to work more efficiently than ever with less manual work.
Meet the new line of small articulated loaders from CASE
CASE’s small articulated loaders comprise of a six model line featuring power ranges from 17.7 to 44.4kW; an operating capacity from 680kg to more than 1,360kg, options for diesel or fully electric, and a full range of more than 110 attachments. Several of the small articulated loaders, including the SL12TR model released this autumn, feature a telescopic arm to provide an extra-long reach for loading trucks or moving material into tough to reach places. Where lifting capacity is a priority, CASE will offer more rugged models with traditional Z bar loader linkage designed for heavier loads.
In 2024, Case will launch the all-electric SL22EV that is said to deliver the same power as its diesel counterparts and can be fully charged in one hour. This electrified machine is designed to provide a low noise, zero emissions solution for getting work done in a broader range of environments, whether it’s indoor work where air quality is paramount or a close quarter residential neighbourhood where contractors need to keep noise levels down.
New Holland debuts small articulated loaders
New Holland Construction has a new five model line of small articulated loaders. The ML12 showcases a lifting capacity of 1,100kg, tipping load capacity of 1,000kg, and lifting height of 2,169mm. With a width of 919mm, the 1.1t ML12 also features an electro hydraulic controlled differential, hydrostatic four wheel drive, standard lift path, and a common instrument interface (CII) mechanical attachment coupler.
With the same horsepower and width as the ML12, the ML12T is designed to excel with its telescopic reach arm loader and lifting height of 2,819 mm. This extended lift allows operators to load and unload materials from large trucks, while the extended reach provides more flexibility in dumping, levelling and grading tasks. Multiple tipping load paths of up to 748 kg, depending on loader position and 1,200 kg operating weight works well in light construction scenarios such as moving light debris and pallets. Displaying a 1,400kg lifting capacity and 1,500kg tipping load, the ML15 is designed for heavier materials. Its 19.3kW engine and 1,575kg operating weight support a cab that features a safety entry bar, non-suspension vinyl seat, armrests, and exterior mirror features to create a comfortable driving experience.
The ML22X model is New Holland Construction’s first electric powered small articulated loader. When fully charged, the 24.9kW lithium ion battery powers the machine for up to six hours, depending on the task. Multiple charging options are available to meet the various needs of operators. The onboard charger fully charges the battery from 0 to 100% in just under nine hours, while the fast charge connector provides a full charge in less than two hours. It has a lifting capacity of 2,200kg, tipping load of 2,054kg, and lifting height of 2,451mm. Finally, the ML23 showcases a 2,451mm lifting height, 2,260kg tipping load, a 2,200kg lifting capacity, and 19.3kW at 2,300 rpm, and has been developed for easy transportation and loading.
CAT’s new 255 and 265 compact track loaders
The CAT 255 and 265 compact track loaders feature new 55.4kW engines designed to maintain horsepower across a wider rpm range and boast significant torque increases with gains of 13% for the 255 and 43% for the 265. A redesigned engine compartment mounts the engine and cooling package lower into the frame for improved stability. Compared with the 259D3 model, the new 255 loader delivers 36% more tilt breakout, 26% higher lift breakout force, and a 24% increase in rated operating capacity. Height to the B-pin for the 265, compared to the 289D3, increases by 193mm, resulting in a maximum lift height of 3.35m for easier truck loading. The 265 also delivers 19% higher tilt breakout force and 22% higher lift breakout force. The closed centre auxiliary hydraulic system allows the 255 and 265 to operate all CAT ‘Smart Attachments’ with the standard auxiliary hydraulics provided.
Reengineering of lower machine components has been designed to deliver a stronger and stiffer undercarriage for improved machine stability and less pitching when filling the bucket with material. Its torsion suspension undercarriage is said to deliver better operator comfort, track wear, and material retention, while the stiffer design results in smoother graded surfaces. Both the 255 and 265 compact track loaders feature a larger cab design. A range of new mechanical and air ride suspension seat options are available, including a ‘high comfort’ seat that is both ventilated and heated. New auto temperature control plus vent outlet positioning above the operator is designed to help the new HVAC system quickly cool the cab’s interior.
The new compact loaders feature a low entry point which is designed to make entering and exiting the loaders much easier. The operator can open the cab door without the lift arms being fully lowered to the frame stops. Visibility is said to be improved via the lower engine mounting, a 59% larger rear window and bigger top window that are designed to provide a 15% increase in viewable area.
Yanmar’s New V7 Compact Wheel Loader Features Premium Capabilities and Speed
Yanmar Compact Equipment introduces the all-new 35-kW V7 compact wheel loader to the North American market. The 4,250-kg machine fills the gap in the Yanmar wheel loader line between the V4-7 and the V8 and features a low operating weight, comfortable cab area and high bucket capacity. Its compact design, intuitive controls and high travel speeds maximize performance and efficiency for operators in landscaping, rental, municipalities, snow removal and other applications.
The V7 features a 0.7 m3 bucket capacity, with optional light material bucket brings increases bucket capacity for additional productivity. The compact wheel loader also includes a powerful Tier 4 Final Yanmar engine allowing for a lifting capacity of 35.5 kN. In addition, the V7 features approximately 40 degrees of articulation and includes a newly designed articulation oscillation joint allowing oscillation in the center of the wheel loader instead of the rear. This maximizes ground contact with all four wheels for optimal tractive force.
Ergonomic joystick controls simplify machine operation. Creep mode allows for precise attachment control while Automatic Ride Control with Limited Slip Differential improves convenience and efficiency. Operators can easily access relevant machine information and options via a color display.
Bright LED lights improve work area visibility while optimizing power consumption. Hydraulic quick couplers allow fast attachment change-out. Contractors can lift loads without the need for constant readjustment of the load angle thanks to the V7’s parallel kinematics which keeps material level as its raised and lowered
