August 2013, Vol. 68 No. 8
Equipment Spotlight
Skid-Steer Loaders: Equipment Spotlight
Skid steer loaders from Bobcat, John Deere, Volvo CE, Caterpillar and Case.
Bobcat
With a rated operating capacity of 3,875 pounds and an operating weight of 10,008 pounds, the S850 is now the largest Bobcat skid-steer loader. Thanks to vertical-style lift arms, the S850 offers a lift height of 144 inches; given it the most lift height of any Bobcat loader. It is powered by a 92-hp water-cooled diesel engine. Routine maintenance on the S850 has been minimized to enhance operator productivity. The redesigned cooling system makes it easier to clean out the cooling system, with an oil cooler that swings up, allowing the operator to clean the areas between the oil cooler and radiator. Operators have the choice between standard hand/foot controls or the new Selectable Joystick Controls. The control levers on the optional Selectable Joystick Controls move up and down in conjunction with the seat to reduce arm movement and fatigue as the operator controls the machine. The joystick mounts slide forward or backward to adjust to the preference of each individual operator. bobcat.com
John Deere
The new 328E skid steer boasts 25 percent more floor space than previous models and for easy hydraulic attachment, John Deere added connect-under-pressure auxiliary couplers. The engine side shields now can be installed more securely with the improved design. Customers asked for automotive-style courtesy lighting, so now lights can be preset to stay on for up to a 90-second interval before shutting down after the operator exits the machine. Options include electrohydraulic (EH) controls you can switch to ISO, H-pattern, or foot pedal controls for operation with the push of a button. Plus, the 328E features more power while maintaining our patented vertical-lift boom for exceptional lift height and reach. And its EPA Interim Tier 4 engine features automatic cleaning without impacting machine operation in most conditions. 800.503.3373, deere.com
Case
The Case SV185 medium-frame skid steer loader meets the federal Tier 4 Final emission standard with new engine technology and a diesel oxidation catalyst solution. The SV185 has been updated with a new ISM diesel four-cylinder turbocharged and after-cooled engine with a high pressure common rail fuel system design and electronic controls. While the SV185 remains at 60 gross hp, it has 7 percent more torque than the previous version. Users also have the flexibility to increase the machine’s rated operating capacities by a hundred pounds — 1,950 pounds — with optional counterweights. 866.542.2736, casece.com
Volvo CE
Featuring a unique single loader arm design, Volvo skid steer loaders and compact track loaders deliver superior loading performance and durability found in a traditional skid steer design, along with the improved visibility, safety and enhanced cab access of a side-entry machine. The robust design and reinforcement of a single loader arm provides reliability and effectively distributes the load. Without the horizontal cross member found on two-arm vertical lift machines, operators experience excellent all-around, class-leading visibility. 828.650.2000, volvoce.com
Caterpillar
The Cat 272D Skid Steer Loader features a Cat C3.8 engine which meets Stage IIIB and Tier 4 Interim emissions standards with a net engine power of 95 hp. A robust 23-gpm auxiliary hydraulic system allows efficient use of a broad range of work tools. Larger lift cylinders provide a 19-percent boost in lifting force. An electrically activated quick coupler allows a simpler design that eliminates hydraulic lines, connectors and valves. Self-relieving quick disconnects allow work tool changes to be made quickly and easily. Rated operating capacity for the 272D is 3,200 pounds at 35 percent of tipping load. An optional counterweight kit increases rated operating capacity to 3,450 pounds. 309.675.1000, cat.com
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