Walt Moore, Editor
Case Construction Equipment recently introduced three new F-Series wheel loader models: 721F, 821F and 921F, with net-horsepower ratings of 179, 211 and 242, respectively. Powering the new loaders is a Case 6.7-liter diesel engine that is Tier 4 Interim-certified and uses selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to control nitrogen-oxide (NOx) emissions. The new models not only meet current emissions standards, says Case, but also have more power and are as much as 17 percent more fuel efficient, compared with their E-Series predecessors.
With SCR technology, says Case, engines in the new loaders are tuned for maximum efficiency; high combustion temperatures reduce particulate matter (PM) to compliance levels in-cylinder, thus eliminating the need for a diesel particulate filter. To reduce NOx levels, the SCR system injects diesel exhaust fluid into the exhaust stream, initiating a chemical reaction that transforms NOx into harmless nitrogen and water.
The new F-Series models, as did the E-Series, provide four work modes (max, standard, economy and auto) to best match machine performance to the application. With the F-Series, Case has “upgraded” the work-mode system, with an eye toward improved fuel economy. In “auto” mode, says Case, “the electronically controlled engine automatically adjusts between power curves to move the maximum amount of material per gallon of fuel.”
An electronically controlled, 4F/3R power-shift transmission, with manual kick-down and selectable auto-shift/manual-shift control, is standard. Axles front and rear are the outboard-planetary type using limited-slip differentials. An optional efficiency package, aimed at further improving fuel economy, includes a new 5F/3R transmission with lock-up torque converter, open-differential axles and advanced-system programming.
“The five-speed transmission offers good value,” says Tim O’Brien, marketing manager, “with an 8-percent increase in fuel savings over a comparably equipped model with a four-speed transmission.”
The pilot-controlled implement hydraulic systems in the new loaders are closed-center, pressure/flow-compensated types that use a variable-displacement pump to deliver flows of 54.2, 63.2 and 76.5 gpm, respectively. An auxiliary-hydraulic system is optional and allows use of a range of attachments.
In the cab, single-lever joystick control for lift and tilt is standard, with a forward/reverse-shuttle switch and a kick-down button in the lever. Two-lever implement control is an option, as is the Case joystick-steering system (which retains the steering wheel). The PowerInch feature, integral with the 5F/3R transmission, is designed to provide more control (regardless of engine speed) when approaching targets in tight areas. Optional is a wide-angle rear-view camera with color monitor.
All three new machines use Z-bar linkage, and all are available with an extended reach (XR) option. In addition, the 721F is available in tool-carrier (XT) configuration with parallel-type linkage and an integrated quick coupler.
