New Holland makes the point that its product line has the most vertical-lift models in the less-than-1,601-pound category (three); and that its LS140, with a rated operating capacity of 1,250 pounds, is the smallest vertical-lift machine in the market. The company's three smallest machines, the LS140, LS150 and LS160, feature an Advanced Warning System that monitors critical machine systems and an onboard diagnostic system.
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 3
Product-line features: Among the distinctive features of the New Holland skid-steer is the company's Superboom, a vertical-lift design that, according to the company, provides increases in lift capacity, forward reach, machine stability and productivity.
Komatsu
Seat-Bar Instruments and Boom-Float
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 2
Product-line features: Borrowing technology from its larger earthmoving machines, Komatsu has incorporated its HydrauMind hydraulic system into its skid-steers. The system is designed, says Komatsu, "for both single and simultaneous movements to achieve unsurpassed controllability in positioning the bucket."
Bobcat
Roomy Cab and Direct Injection
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 5
New models: S130, S150, S160
Product-line features: Bobcat cabs feature the company's BICS interlock control system, rear-pivot seat bar and easy-to-remove windows, along with available factory air-conditioning (most models) and a keyless-start security system. The machines use dual-path engine cooling and heavy-duty drive chains that are adjustment-free.
Volvo
Wide Selection of Buckets
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 2
Product-line features: Volvo skid-steers feature a permanently lubricated universal joint for transferring power from the engine to the hydrostatic transmission, welded unitized frames, adjustable drive chains and corrosion-resistant pins in the loader linkage.
Thomas Equipment
"Tiny but Tough"
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 4
New models: 137
Product-line features: Thomas uses a direct mechanical coupling between the engine and hydrostatic-drive pumps on many of its machines, along with heavy-duty drive chains. All the company's skid-steers have a five-year/5,000-hour warranty, which provides three-year/3,000-hour full-machine coverage, and additional two-year/2,000-hour coverage for the drive train
Caterpillar
Restyled Cabs and Radial-Piston Motors
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 2
New models: 216B, 226B
Product-line features: Caterpillar's skid-steers are equipped with low-effort, pilot-operated hydraulic controls configured in the standard ISO pattern, but can be converted to an "H" pattern in larger models. Common design elements include radial-piston drive motors, hydraulically driven cooling fans, adjustable axles and a wide selection of proprietary work tools.
Gehl
PowerView Boom and Control Choices
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 3
New models: 4640
Product-line features: Loaders feature the company's self-leveling bucket linkage and PowerView boom, designed to enhance side visibility. A choice of control systems includes Gehl's proprietary T-Bar (Hands-Only) system, plus the "Dual-Hand" and "Hand-Foot" systems.
John Deere
ROC Gains 500 Pounds with Counterweight
Product-line features: Deere will soon replace its 200 Series skid-steers with all-new 300 Series models, including the 317, 320, 325, 328 and 332. Thus, the model 317—with a standard ROC of 1,750 pounds—will replace the 240 Series II as the smallest machine in the Deere range. The new models feature a patented vertical-reach boom, John Deere 250 Series PowerTech engines, redesigned electrical systems and enhanced hydraulic systems.
Case
Powerful Auxiliary Hydraulics
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 1
Product-line features: According to Case, its XT skid-steer line is built around the concept of "compact power," which combines high engine horsepower and high hydraulic horsepower with a heavy-duty frame. The concept results in a machine with long life and durable performance.
Mustang
Tailor Widths for Maximum Maneuverability
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 3
New models: 2044
Product-line features: Mustang Mfg., a Gehl company, has been building skid-steers since 1965, and bills itself as the "second-oldest skid-steer manufacturer in the world." Like Gehl, Mustang builds a pair of really big machines, the 2099 and the 2109, with rated operating capacities of 3,400 and 3,675 pounds.
Daewoo
Cummins A-Series Power
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 1
Product-line features: The Cummins engine used in the 430-PLUS has a displacement of 2 liters, is Tier-2 compliant, and features fuel-injection and air-handling systems designed to improve combustion efficiency.
JCB
Left-Side Entry and Servo Control
Models less than 1,601 lbs. ROC: 2
Product-line features: Among the most distinctive features of the skid-steer range is the single-loader-arm boom, which provides safe and convenient access to the operator's compartment via a left-side door. Plus, the "low-slung" design of the boom arm, says JCB, allows superior visibility to the rear and right side of the machine.
Buying File Feature: Smaller Skid-Steers Always in Demand
