CE EQUIPMENT CONNECTION - Compact Equipment

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CONTENTS
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COMPACT EQUIPMENT (ISSN 1552-1281) is published monthly with an Attachment Buyer's Guide in February by Benjamin Media, Inc. 1770 Main
Street, PO Box 190, Peninsula, OH 44264. Copyright 2008, Benjamin Media, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced
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Promoting the use of compact equipment by the owner/operator and
business professional in the commercial, private and rental markets
VOLUME 7 • NUMBER 1 • JANUARY 2008 • COMPACTEQUIP.COM
Departments
6 Editor’s Message
8 News
12 Market Watch: Construction
Equipment Forecast for 2008
14 Talking Shop: Skid Steer Drop
Hammer Maintenance Tips
44 Product Profile: Komatsu
Compact Excavators
50 Truck Stop: Stake Bodies
58 E-Biz
58 CE Advertisers Index
4 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com
MEMBER
Pg. 24
Keys to Keen Operation By Keith Gribbins
The minds behind the machines offer skid steer insights.
The CUL Concrete Crew By Pam Stask
Three attachments that transform a compact
utility loader into a dedicated concrete machine.
Mighty Material Movers By Amber Reed
Power buggies come in small packages
but give us full-size performances.
Calling in the Air Force By Amber Reed
Select the best air compressor for your tools and jobsite tasks.
World of Concrete Preview By Pam Stask
Take a look at the products that will
be on display at this year’s event.
Power Hungry By Jennifer Oredson
Gen set engines keep the lights on and your crew working.
Pg. 44

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F R O M T H E E D I T O R . . .
Trade Show Survival Guide
Navigate the New Season of Vegas
Machine Trade Shows Like an Old Pro
When you’re in the desert, especially the middle of the Mojave, it’s
always wise to have a plan. The City of Las Vegas sits smack dab in the
center of Nevada’s high plains, surrounded by the Mojave’s rust-colored
moonscape, and this electric oasis is your destination in 2008. From
January through March, Vegas will be the epicenter for everything
equipment. America’s largest trade show facility (the Las Vegas
Convention Center) will host the three most important trade fairs for compact machinery
— World of Concrete (Jan. 22-25), ARA’s The Rental Show (Feb. 11-14) and AEM’s
CONEXPO-CON/AGG (March 11-15). Now you just need a plan.
• Book’em Dummy — We hope you’re building a time machine, because you may need
to warp back six months to find good room reservations. CONEXPO will be the
world’s biggest machine trade show in 2008 and 200,000 attendees from around the
world booked three years ago, so good luck, McFly.
• Hi-Heel Sneakers — Buy a swank pair of black or brown sneakers or expect wheelchair
treatment at the airport. Walking the 2 million sq ft of exhibit space in the Vegas
Convention Center (there are no trams) and wearing new shoes or (God help you)
high heels will feel like you just ran an Iron Man in clogs.
• Eating with Aliens — Don’t chow down on
that awful, over-priced slop on the show
floor. The convention center is attached to
the Hilton Hotel, so just walk over to the
casino and find reasonable dining like the
Paradise Café or Quark’s Star Trek Bar. Eat
Vulcan Sauce wings, razz Klingon waiters
and rest your tired feet.
Vegas Flies: If you’re leaving any of the major trade fairs
on the last day of the show (especially CONEXPO), give
your crews a three hour window to crisscross the
airport. Security will be obscene and the concourses
will be swamped with drunk, broke contractors.
• Early Bird Specials — Those in the know
pre-register or show up a day before the
show to get their badges. Greenhorns wade
through the sea of humanity that line
up the first morning to get credentials.
Pre-register online early enough and they’ll
send your dog tags in the mail.
• Plot Your Course — Every machine
manufacturer (from Komatsu to Caterpillar)
wants you in their booth; follow the siren
sales pitches of the super models working
the floor and you’ll never leave the first hall. Use the show directory to map who you
want to see to save time and your barking dogs.
• Get Free Crap — Designate a Sherpa, that new young kid whose Vegas trip your
company’s comping. Give him a garbage bag and stock up on product literature and
everything free — T-shirts, pens, Nerf balls, hats, toys, whatever — and magnanimously
distribute it at the office upon your return.
• Taxi Cab Hell — If you stay to the end of the day, expect to battle zillions of zombiefied
attendees for cabs and the public train. Your best bet is to leave early, use the Monorail
on the opposite end of the Hilton or just nurse your wounds at the casino bar.
• Drink with the CE Crew — We’ll have a booth at WOC and CONEXPO, so find us, ply
us with booze and we’ll tell you the best booths to visit and the coolest new compact
machines released for the new work season.
Keith Gribbins
Managing Editor
kgribbins@compactequip.com
Publisher
Bernard P. Krzys
Associate Publisher
Robert D. Krzys
Editor
James W. Rush
Managing Editor
Keith Gribbins
Associate Editor
Jason Morgan
Assistant Editor
Pam Stask
Contributing Staff Editors
Sharon M. Bueno
Bradley Kramer
Greg Thompson
Creative Director
W. M. Conley
Senior Graphic Designer
Edward A. Haney
Graphic Designers
Sarah Hayes
Chris Slogar
Elizabeth Stull
Marketing Manager
Pete McNeil
Regional Sales Representative
Ryan Sneltzer
Circulation Manager
Alexis R. Tarbet
Web Manager
Mark Gorman
Reprint Information
Wright’s Reprints
Ph: 877.625.5295
Fax: 281.419.5712
Editorial & Advertising Offices
1770 Main St., P.O. Box 190
Peninsula, OH 44264 USA
Ph: 330.467.7588
Fax: 330.468.2289
E-mail: info@compactequip.com
compactequip.com
6 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Web-Exclusive Features
Expanded Print Articles
Online-Only Stories
Equipment Videos
Break on Through to the Online Side
This month, read all about dump truck selection guidelines in the online
only feature, “Truck Overload.” Truck manufacturers offer advice on picking
out the perfect dump truck. From sizing a truck to maintenance, the feature
explores the important questions that should be addressed before buying.
Get CE Unbound by Clicking on the Banner Ad at COMPACTEQUIP.COM

CE News
United Rentals Supplies
“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition”
When the producers of ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home
Edition” needed reliable equipment tough enough to help
build a house in seven days, United Rentals was there with
the iron. The world’s largest equipment rental company and
the crew of the popular television show joined forces with
hundreds of volunteers in November to build a new home
for the Hughes family of Louisville, Ky.
The United Rentals branch in Louisville arranged the
donation of more than 50 pieces of equipment for the
duration of the job, including aerial lifts, light towers and
portable power generators. It was the eleventh time the
company had provided support to the “Extreme Makeover:
Home Edition” team in 2007, following successful projects in
Colorado, Connecticut, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota,
New Hampshire, Vermont, Washington and Wyoming.
Diane Korman, senior producer for “Extreme Makeover:
Home Edition,” said: “We are very excited United Rentals is
working with us. Because of United Rentals’ vast reach across
North America, we rely on them for the extreme equipment
and round-the-clock service we expect and need to get the
job done — regardless of the conditions or location.”
Jason Habermel, branch manager for United Rentals
in Louisville, seconded that team work: “This was a total
community effort on behalf of the Hughes family, and
we were thrilled to be a part of it. We wanted to support
the crew in every way possible: deliver equipment day or
night, coordinate services with neighboring branches and
volunteer our time to assist on site. It’s truly exciting and an
honor to help build a beautiful home from the ground up in
just a week.”
The house was donated to the Hughes family, which
was struggling to provide for their disabled teenage son.
Night doesn’t stop the hardworking crews of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” or United Rentals for that matter. The UR branch in Louisville arranged the
donation of more than 50 pieces of equipment for the duration of the Hughes family’s new home, including aerial lifts, light towers and portable power generators.
The new house was specially designed to accommodate
19-year-old Patrick Henry, who was born blind and with
severely impaired arms and legs. Faced with mounting bills
for Patrick Henry’s home care, the Hughes family faced
nearly insurmountable diffi culties until ABC stepped in
to help.
The challenges of constructing the Hughes’ home for their
special needs are chronicled in the episode that will air in
January. “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is broadcast on
Sunday nights at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
8 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

JCB Breaks Ground for New North
American JCB Customer Support Center
It can’t be said that
the executives of JCB are
afraid to get their hands
dirty — or at least their
machines dirty. Using a
few bright yellow backhoes,
the top brass (with
help from local offi cials)
broke ground in late
November for the new
JCB Customer Support
Center, a 200,000-sq-ft
service and support center
for the company’s
North American operations.
The ground breaking
is a symbol of JCB’s
increased focus on customer
support, which is
also demonstrated by the
appointment of the new
vice president of customer
support Mike Werner.
“Returning to JCB was
like coming home and
Since JCB is widely credited with building the world’s fi rst backhoe (at least in Europe), six dignitaries
broke ground simultaneously by operating backhoe loaders rather than the traditional shovels.
reuniting with family. It is an extraordinary company and
it was an easy transition,” Werner said. “I saw the return as
a tremendous opportunity to be a part of something very
signifi cant at JCB. The company is positioned for growth in
this market and the new center marks an important step in
that growth process.”
The JCB Customer Support Center will resemble a
smaller version of the headquarters for JCB, with its
familiar green façade. The headquarters building serves as
the North American operations headquarters. Since JCB is
widely credited with building the world’s fi rst backhoe, six
dignitaries, including John Patterson, CEO of JCB World
Wide and Graeme Macdonald, president of JCB Inc., broke
ground simultaneously by operating backhoe loaders rather
than the traditional shovels. The six backhoes used were
manufactured at the Savannah facility.
“This is a very signifi cant day for JCB and its North American
operations,” said Patterson. “The JCB Customer Support
Center will serve as a global distribution center for North
America, South America and the Pacifi c Rim. But, at the
same time, it will stand as visible proof of our commitment
to customer support, particularly for our North American
customers.”
While the World Parts Center at JCB’s world headquarters
in the United Kingdom is the main distribution center for
JCB parts, the JCB Customer Support Center will serve as the
distribution point for parts sourced in America.
“Completion of the JCB Customer Support Center will
enable us to improve the level of service we offer to our
North American dealer network and also position us for
signifi cant market growth when the economic climate
improves,” Macdonald said. “Locating the support center
here in America makes both logistical and economic sense.” Circle 5 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 9

CE News
FMI and CMAA Present the
Eighth Annual Survey of Owners
Construction Industry Making the
“Technological Shift” to Tackle New Challenges
The fi ne folks at FMI have their fi ngers on the pulse when
it comes to construction market analysis. Now FMI (the
management consultants and investment bankers to the
construction industry) with the help of the Construction
Management Association of America (CMAA) announced the
publication of the FMI/CMAA Eighth Annual Survey of Owners.
The survey, based on more than 200 responses from a wide
variety of owner types and industries, reveals that collaborative
construction work processes are increasing and that Building
Information Modeling (BIM) usage is accelerating.
This indicates the construction industry is adopting new
business approaches and making the “technological shift” to
meet the seven challenges — “the perfect storm” — converging
on the construction industry: 1) aging infrastructure; 2) schedule,
speed complexity and ability to design and construct globally;
3) global competition; 4) alternative delivery and fi nancing
systems; 5) aging workforce; 6) attraction of Gen Y and retention
of Gen X and Baby Boomers; and 7) investment in purposeful
training.
“One consistent trend we’ve noticed throughout the years
is the increased application of collaborative work models to
bridge the industry’s historically ‘silo-ed’ work processes,” said
Marisé Mikulis, senior consultant with FMI.
The report indicates that design/build as a constructionexecution
technique is used by at least 17 percent of owners
on the majority of their capital construction programs, up from
less than 10 percent in 2005. The report also states that reliance
on CMs and PMs is increasing vs. past owner studies; 79 percent
of the time owners hire
a construction manager,
program manager and
other resources to support
capital program delivery.
This movement to collaborative
work models is
paralleled by an expanded
use of BIM. The report
notes that approximately
35 percent of all respondents
have used BIM processes
and technology
for one or more years.
Seventy-four percent of
respondents who are
current BIM users would
The FMI report in all of its glory.
Based on more than 200 responses
from a wide variety of owner types
and industries, the report reveals
that collaborative construction work
processes are increasing and that
Building Information Modeling
(BIM) usage is accelerating.
be likely, or very likely, to
recommend use of BIM
systems.
For more information
about the FMI/CMAA
Eighth Annual Survey of
Owners, visit FMI’s Web
site at www.fminet.com.
Polaris Defense Introduces
Multi-Passenger Military Vehicle
The U.S. Army of the 21st century needs to be quick and
mobile, which means they need a set of wheels that can
go almost anywhere now. To fi ll those increasing demands
of our go-everywhere troops, Polaris Industries recently
announced the company had delivered a military version
of Polaris’ RANGER utility vehicle to the U.S. Army at Fort
Campbell, Ky.
Equipped with a steel exoskeleton, high-capacity fuel tank, run fl at tires and
a completely sealed power train (which can ford up to 30 in. of water), the
MVRS800 ultra light tactical vehicle is one badass UTV (technically speaking).
The MVRS800 is the newest addition to the Polaris family
of ultra light tactical vehicles produced for the military. It
is powered by a 760-cc, 40-hp Patriot engine that operates
on JP8, the U.S. military’s standard fuel. This breakthrough
engine was fi rst introduced by Polaris earlier this year on the
militarized all terrain vehicle (ATV), the MV800.
To withstand rugged terrain and the harsh environments
the military expects these vehicles to perform in, the MVRS
features a rugged, steel exoskeleton, high-capacity fuel tank,
run fl at tires and completely sealed power train which can
ford up to 30 in. of water. For easy transport of soldiers
or gear, the vehicle also has a front storage rack, multiple
D-rings, weapons storage and a rear bed with fold-down
sides. The rear bed is adaptable to accessories such as litter
racks and rear seating. Polaris also offers a gasoline powered
version of this vehicle called the MVRS700.
“Polaris continues to assess the needs of the Armed Forces
to provide them with vehicles that offer capability that
can meet a wide variety of needs,” said Mark McCormick,
managing director, Polaris Defense. “The MVRS is based on
our popular line of RANGER side-by-side vehicles known for
their toughness and smooth riding capability. Basing the
MVRS on the RANGER platform ensures a cost-effective ultra
light tactical vehicle that can conquer the toughest military
demands.”
Polaris Defense has been successfully providing a family
of vehicles to the U.S. Armed Forces since 2001. Established
to provide vehicles, spare parts and training to the military,
Polaris Defense is dedicated to supporting its customers with
a total capability for the demanding needs they have in all
environments worldwide.
10 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

CE News
LETTERS
TO THE
EDITOR
More Facts on Vacs
I just fi nished reading your article “Suck It Up” in the November issue of
Compact Equipment [Truck Stop, page 50]. Once again, you and the talented
staff at the magazine have synopsized the industry in a short, but very concise
and detailed article for anyone considering purchasing or upgrading to a
new vacuum system. With over 15 years of experience with vacuum systems, I
would like to add a number of issues worth considering with vacuum systems
and some features that work and do not work in my opinion.
Firstly in the 1990s, many contractors watched me provide utility locating
(potholing) with great interest and subsequently purchased large truckmounted
vacuum systems in the belief that bigger is often better. Well, nothing
could be further from the truth. Although many large truck-mounted systems
are stronger and many are built with heavier grade materials, they also cost
much more, are most expensive on diesel and maintained costs and often
have little or no tool circuits for utility location, gate box cleaning or landscape
projects.
In addition, many of these systems were originally intended for municipalities
and designed to suck wet spoils and sludge materials and therefore were
never intended to suck dry materials. With large vacuum trucks, the prolonged
vacuuming of dry dirt and debris can result in premature wear and tear of the
system due to the conveyance of material at high speed through the hoses,
fi ttings and bends before being deposited in a debris tank. This high speed of
material will result in expensive maintenance and repair costs. In comparison,
smaller truck- and trailer-mounted vacuum systems are often more suited to
utility location and cleaning projects and when used properly will be cheaper
to purchase, operate and maintain over the long haul.
One major disadvantage of smaller systems is the cleaning and maintenance
of the fi ltration systems. While large and more expensive vacuum systems
have purging systems to help clean vacuum fi ltration systems, smaller vacuum
systems typically do not have these features. Removing and washing or
cleaning a fi lter cartridge is not always possible and washing a fi lter in winter
time is often not an option. With varying site conditions and use from site to
site, pre-planning the operation and maintenance is very important as is the
Sound Off
Answer These Questions, Get It Printed and Win a Free Pair of CE Gloves and an Outerwears Pre-Filter
In 2008, CONEXPO-CON/AGG will be the biggest machine trade show in the
world. How many of our readers will be attending this giant machine fest?
What events, attractions and manufacturers are you excited to see? What do
you love most about Vegas trade shows, and what tips can you give our newer
readers about navigating North America’s ultimate machine fair?
We here at Compact Equipment are always trying to get our readers
more involved with the magazine. We’re interested in communicating
your opinions and interests, so we can make a better publication. In
hopes of creating a direct dialogue with our readership, we’ll be asking
a question each month in our Letters to the Editor department. If you
send a response to the questions above and it gets printed, we will
send you a pair of Compact Equipment leather work gloves and a nice
equipment pre-fi lter (courtesy of the fi ne folks at Outerwears) — along
with an autographed copy of the magazine with your letter (signed by
editors Keith Gribbins and Jason Morgan). Send your responses directly
to kgribbins@benjaminmedia.com.
training of operators to identify and plan the cleaning of the fi lters before
working on a site.
After more than 15 years of vacuum excavation on highways and busy
streets from coast to coast, there are a few other factors to consider. While
trailer systems are often less costly to purchase, they can also be very
diffi cult to live with in urban areas and in areas prone to snow and ice
conditions. In addition, when going off the pavement, it is very easy to get a
trailer stuck especially when there is signifi cant material in the tank.
A feature that I never considered when purchasing my fi rst vacuum
system was tools and storage space. Although it is very easy to load and
equip toolboxes in the shop, it is entirely diff erent to open and close tool
and equipment boxes on the shoulder of a busy highway or street. In my
opinion, when working a vacuum system on busy streets and highways, be
it a trailer or truck unit, all systems need to have tools and control panels
and toolboxes at the back of the system to avoid the dangers of walking
or moving around the systems and to ensure all operators minimize close
contact with high speed traffi c in nearby travel lanes. As vacuum systems
are noisy, no traffi c can be heard over
the blowers or the power plants and
engineering a solution to keeping
operators safe is paramount.
Finally, although a boom on a vacuum
system can greatly reduce operator
fatigue and sometimes allows
single operators to complete projects
alone, the draw back is the danger of
swinging booms into oncoming traffi c
or not securing a boom when moving
the vacuum. Reduced clearance
for bridges and overhead signs are
always a concern with equipment that
is over 10 ft tall. Airports, for example,
have many bridges with low clearances
at 10 ft which is a design for airport
transportation requirements but
lost truck-mounted units exceed this
height clearance.
Proper training in the use of a vacuum system to me is very important and
experienced operators can ensure a long, safe, productive and economical
life of any vacuum system. Thanks again for a great article.
Michael A. Twohig
SUE Consultants
San Jose, Calif.
www.sueconsultants.com
With over 15 years of experience
with vacuum systems, Michael
Twohig would like to add a number
of issues worth considering
and some features that work and
do not work in his opinion.
Left: Outerwears Pre-filters are designed to deflect dirt away from
the air filter to enable the maximum amount of air to flow to
the filter and allow the engine to run longer.
Right: Be ready to tackle every day’s new challenges with a free pair of CE
leather gloves — just send a response to our Sound Off column.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 11

AEM Releases Annual Outlook Report
Construction Equipment Manufacturers
Forecast Modest Growth in 2008
Compiled by CE Staff
As the saying goes, all good things come to those who
wait and that can be seen in the construction equipment
manufacturing industry for 2008. While the overall machine
business in the United States and Canada was to remain fl at
through the end of 2007, a rebound in 2008 is expected,
according to the annual forecast of the Association of
Equipment Manufacturers (AEM).
AEM is the North America-based international trade
group representing the off-road equipment manufacturing
industry. Each year, it surveys its construction equipment
manufacturer members about expected sales of the machines
that build, repair and maintain America’s and the world’s
roads, bridges, dams, houses, offi ces, schools and other
public and private infrastructure.
In the latest AEM outlook survey, overall construction
equipment demand by year-end 2007 was predicted to
decline 1.9 percent in the United States and remain fl at in
Canada at minus 0.1 percent, while worldwide business was
anticipated to increase 9.9 percent.
In 2008, growth is expected in the United States, Canada
and worldwide, with the biggest gains in global markets — an
increase of 2.8 percent for the United States and 2.9 percent
for Canada and growth in worldwide markets of 8 percent.
Commentary on Outlook
The AEM outlook survey asked respondents to rank the
infl uence of several factors on future construction equipment
sales. As expected, the impact of the housing slump was a key
factor, as well as the state of the general economy, including
interest rates and credit availability. Adequate transportation
funding will also have a major impact on the business of
many, according to the survey. Construction machinery
manufacturing is export intensive, and the strength of the
dollar against other currencies is also expected to affect
business growth. Machinery makers also cited commodity
shortages and prices, including steel and energy.
“Overall, we’ve seen a slowdown in the past year or so,
but it comes after some very good years for the equipment
manufacturing industry,” stated AEM president Dennis Slater.
“The residential housing slump in the United States has sent
ripples across the entire economy, not only the construction
industry. However, growth in non-residential construction
For year-end 2007, earthmoving equipment sales were actually anticipated to decrease 8.9 percent in the United States and
5.1 percent for Canada, but other worldwide markets for earthmoving equipment were predicted to gain 12.4 percent in 2007.
12 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

continues to offset losses in the housing market. For
equipment manufacturers, the continued global demand
for construction machinery is also balancing
the slowdown in our domestic business. Economic
signals are mixed, but there is guarded optimism
that our economy will remain resilient and not descend
into recession.”
Slater provided additional commentary about the
outlook survey and factors impacting future business
volume:
“The public works sector has grown steadily over
the past decade and road building is an important
contributor. We have guaranteed funding for the
next few years under SAFETEA-LU federal transportation
legislation, which will provide some stability
for construction equipment manufacturing.
However, it is a continuing fi ght to ensure that the
authorized funding is actually released each year.
And, a major concern is the estimated multi-billion-dollar
shortfall in the Highway Trust Fund.
“Unlike highways, clean water infrastructure
work doesn’t even have a trust fund to address
the critical maintenance and repair needs in this
sector. Looking to the future, we see tremendous
business opportunities related to these projects.
Clean water is, most importantly, good for the
environment and people. But it is also a source of jobs where
our equipment is used.
“Rental is a major distribution channel for construction
equipment, especially for smaller- and medium-size machines.
Over the past few years, the nature of the rental business has
changed. It has not only grown, but that growth has come
with major consolidation among companies. There are fewer
and larger players, with much more negotiating clout when
dealing with manufacturers. And, in recent years, more rental
companies are being bought by private equity fi rms, and their
focus on cash fl ow can affect capital spending.
“Our outlook survey is meant to provide a snapshot look
at the industry, and some product areas are experiencing
stronger growth than others. Even then, a company’s individual
situation may depend on its particular market mix or
geographic footprint,” Slater noted.
Industry Forecasts by Major Product Lines
The AEM annual outlook forecast covers 71 whole machine
product types and 23 types of attachments and components,
grouped into seven general categories. AEM conducts the
survey in the third quarter of the year and consolidates
manufacturers’ estimates of overall business activity. Each
forecast in the AEM survey is the average of responses from
companies in each product line, predicting industrywide
expectations rather than individual company performance,
and unit sales rather than company profi tability. The complete
survey is online at www.aem.org.
Sales of concrete and aggregate equipment were anticipated
to increase 4 percent in the United States by year-end 2007,
and show gains of 5.7 percent for Canada and 8.7 percent
for other worldwide markets. Market predictions for 2008 are
growth of 5.2 percent in the United States, gains of 6.2 percent
for Canada and increases of 10.1 percent in other worldwide
markets. Machines in this category include: crushers; screens;
Machinery makers also cited commodity shortages and prices,
including steel and energy, having an impact on sales in the new year.
Adequate transportation funding will also have a major impact on the
machine business, according to the survey, as will rental company demand.
feeders; conveyors; washing equipment; rock drills; concrete
batch plants and pavers; concrete truck mixers; and dewatering
screens.
For year-end 2007, earthmoving equipment sales were
anticipated to decrease 8.9 percent in the United States,
5.1 percent for Canada and other worldwide markets were
predicted to gain 12.4 percent. In 2008, sales are expected
to decline 1.7 percent for the United States and 0.5 percent
for Canada. Other worldwide markets are predicted to gain
7 percent. This segment includes: crawler and wheeled
excavators; rear dump and articulated haulers; backhoe,
crawler, wheel, compact and skid steer loaders; motor graders;
crawler tractors; trenchers and ditchers; wheeled log skidders;
horizontal directional drills; and scrapers.
Year-end 2007 business for light equipment is expected to
decrease 1.0 percent for the United States, while increasing
2.5 percent for Canada and 6.3 percent for other worldwide
markets. Light equipment business for 2008 is predicted to
gain 3.7 percent for the United States, 4.1 percent for Canada
and 5.3 percent for other worldwide markets. The light
equipment market includes machines such as: hydraulic and
pneumatic breakers; vibratory plate compactors; concrete
screeds, saws and vibrators; pumps and trowels; generators;
light towers; towable mixers; contractor pumps; power
buggies; vibratory walk-behind rollers; air compressors;
lasers; core rigs; and truck-mounted air compressors.
Yearly anticipated sales for construction equipment maunfacturers cannot
be explained and detailed in just
two pages. Visit us online at www.
compactequip.com/unbound to read
an expanded version of this story.
Additional results and information from
the AEM Outlook Survey can be found
only at our CE Unbound Web portal.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 13

Hammer Time
Tips for Choosing, Maintaining and Using
a Skid Steer Drop Hammer Attachment
By Eric Morse
When it comes to demolishing concrete pads,
driveways, sidewalks or roadways, contractors
have two choices — breakers or drop hammers.
According to John Sad, attachment product
specialist with the Bobcat Co., choosing which
tool to use depends on the goal of the job.
“If a full pad of concrete needs to be
demolished, the drop hammer is the perfect
attachment,” says Sad. “If there are only certain
portions of a pad that need to be removed, a
breaker might be better.”
That doesn’t mean that a drop hammer
can’t be used on a pad when only part of the
concrete needs to be removed. Sad says that if a
drop hammer is going to be used in partial pad
removal, the concrete should be segregated.
“A drop hammer is indiscriminate when
breaking concrete,” says Sad. “If the contractor
is using a drop hammer next to concrete that
needs to be saved, they must segregate the
concrete by slot cutting it before beginning
work.”
The thickness of the concrete will determine
which tool should be used to slot cut the
concrete. A walk-behind saw, a slot cutter
and a wheel saw or a planer with slot cut
drum should be used to cut a path between
the concrete to be saved and the concrete to
demolish.
When the decision is made to use a drop
hammer, contractors need to size the attachment
to their carrier. The rated operating capacity
of the machine and the weight of the
attachment will determine what model of
drop hammer can be used on a carrier. For
instance, the Bobcat drop hammer weighs
1,900 lbs, so it can be used on carriers with a
rated operating capacity of 1,900 lbs or higher.
Most manufacturers of skid steer or track
loaders include the rated operating capacity
of the machine in the model name. For example,
a Bobcat S205 skid steer loader has a
rated operating capacity of 2,050 lbs.
Once a drop hammer and carrier have
been identifi ed, it’s important to make sure
that the attachment is used properly on the
jobsite. Properly using a drop hammer begins
with maintenance.
Operating the drop hammer properly is just as important as keeping the attachment
maintained. The drop hammer feet should be in contact with the surface when in operation.
This will prevent the drop hammer from dry fi ring, which could cause damage to the attachment.
14 Compact Compact Equipment Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

A drop hammer is indiscriminate when breaking concrete. If the
contractor is using a drop hammer next to concrete that needs to
be saved, he or she must segregate the concrete by slot cutting it
before beginning work or the above will happen.
Inside the drop hammer is a chain mechanism with a
catch. The catch grabs the weight and raises it up. When the
chain rotates over the top, the catch falls and releases the
weight. The chain in this mechanism should be lubricated
before starting work each day. Also inspect the chain tension,
the tensioner springs and the tension arms. Sad says that the
mounting frame and all welds on the drop hammer should
be inspected daily before use for damage or wear. All grease
points should receive grease before starting the day’s work.
Keep a look out for drop hammer attachments with
unique features like a cushion safety valve, which needs
to be inspected daily before use. “The cushion safety valve
allows the operator to stop the weight from falling if they
decide they don’t want to break concrete in the area they’re
working in. If the weight in the attachment is getting ready
to drop and hasn’t reached the catch, and the operator
decides not to break there, the operator can press the detent
switch and the weight will drop slowly,” says Sad.
To make sure the cushion safety valve is operating properly
before beginning work, the operator should activate the carrier
hydraulics to lift the weight and disengage the hydraulics
when the weight is halfway up the cycle. If the cushion safety
valve is working properly, the weight will fall slowly.
Once the daily inspections and the lubrication of the chain
and greasing are complete, the drop hammer is ready to be
used. Sad says that operating the drop hammer properly is just
as important as keeping the attachment maintained. “The drop
hammer feet should be in contact with the surface when in
operation. This will prevent the drop hammer from dry fi ring,
which could cause damage to the attachment,” says Sad.
To move the carrier during operation, Sad says that the
feet of the drop hammer should be kept on the ground and
the loader should be skidded from side to side or in forward
or reverse to change position.
How long it takes to break concrete with a drop hammer will
depend on the pounds-per-square-inch rating of the concrete.
Thinner concrete will take fewer blows to demolish than thicker
concrete. The Bobcat drop hammer has 20 cycles per minute.
Sad says that operators will have to develop a feel for when the
concrete is demolished. Most of the work the drop hammer
performs occurs underground, where operators can’t see.
If any maintenance needs to be performed on the drop
hammer, the attachment can remain on the carrier, but
make sure the machine is turned off and the hydraulic lines
are disconnected. The drop hammer should also be on a
level surface when performing any maintenance when it is
disconnected from the loader.
For the most part, a drop hammer attachment is a simple
machine that won’t require a lot of attention if maintained
and used properly.
“A chain that is oiled every day is going to last much longer
than a chain that isn’t,” says Sad. “Make sure that the drop
hammer is perpendicular to the surface when operating and
only move the carrier when the weight is going up. If you
do these three things, the drop hammer will have a long and
productive life.”
Eric Morse is a public relations manager with Two Rivers Marketing,
Des Moines, Iowa.
Most of the work the drop hammer performs occurs underground, where operators can’t see. How long it takes to break concrete with a drop
hammer will depend on the pounds-per-square-inch rating of the concrete. Thinner concrete will take fewer blows to demolish than thicker concrete.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 15

New projects often present challenging paths for
companies, but equipped with the right set of keys,
contractors can overcome most obstacles to ensure
success. That not only means having the right tools
in your toolbox, but knowing how to use them like a
pro. When it comes to optimal equipment operation
(with a popular machine like a skid steer), owners and
operators need the knowledge and experience to
handle such expensive and powerful iron. To help our
Maintenance Matters
Skid steers are jobsite grunts. Because these overachieving
machines are tool carriers (taking hundreds of different
attachments), they can work all day long in a zillion different
applications — digging, sweeping, augering, hammering,
cutting, hauling, loading and ever onward. To keep these
workaholics running day in and day out, preventative and
routine maintenance is a must. Keep these fi ve tips close and
ensure your loader rolls large for years to come.
1. According to the Operator’s Manual — The better one
takes care of a machine, the better it will provide for needless
downtime, plain and simple. The operator’s manual,
although sometimes not looked at very much, is the bible
when it comes to keeping any piece of equipment in its
top form. Keep it accessible and follow the procedures the
manufacturer suggests. In most instances, warranty coverage
on equipment is based on material and workmanship.
It doesn’t cover lack of maintenance.
2. A Few Beginner Checks — Aside
from the operator’s manual important
information, many machines
have an abbreviated decal in the
engine compartment area for key
maintenance — follow what it recommends!
3. Engine Oil Levels — Changing oil
and fi lters at the recommended
intervals is vital (again, it’s in the
operator’s manual). It’s no different
than keeping oil and fi lters changed
timely, according to mileage on
cars on trucks. Equipment depends
on this maintenance based on the
hours of operation. Watching fuel
cleanliness and the changing of
the fuel fi lter is important as well.
4. Engine and Air Filter — Check
your engine’s coolant fl uid level,
checking air fl ow while cleaning
the radiator and coolers on an asneeded
basis. Working regularly in
dirty and dusty conditions? Than
it’s most likely that the coolers
are getting clogged and need that
readership amass the decades of education needed
to drive, maintain, own and understand a skid steer
loader, CE has tapped the biggest thinkers behind the
machines (product specialists from Case to Mustang)
to share their insights into optimizing your skid steer
investment. From creature comforts to hydraulic
performance, explore the many features and facets
behind the most popular compact machine in North
America.
By Doug Snorek, Mustang Marketing Manager
important cleaning with either compressed air or low
fl ow water pressure (pressure washers can and do damage
cooler fi ns). The air fi lter is generally not recommended in
routine service, but watch the monitoring system for the
air fi lter and only conduct maintenance when indicated
to do so.
4. Other General Machine Checks — Hydraulic fi lter
monitoring and replacement hydraulics are the “lifeblood”
of any skid steer or compact track loader, no
different than our blood fl ow to keep us going. With
clogged fi lters, a machine isn’t keeping its oil in proper
condition and will consequently have problems. Other
checks include the usual proper tire pressure and torquing
of wheel bolts, ensuring all hydraulic fi ttings are tight so
there are no leaks.
The operator’s manual is the owner’s bible for routine maintenance. Peruse its pages, pop open
the back of your machine and inspect essential checks such as oils, engines, fi lters and hydraulics.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 17

Buckets of Knowledge
Maximum productivity does not necessarily mean running
at maximum RPMs. Ingrain that idea into your skid
steer operators and their productivity will increase. Smooth,
controlled operation is just one important aspect of skid
steer training for your crew. Training programs are available
from a variety of sources, including your equipment dealer
and manufacturer. The following are some important productivity
tips that your training program should address.
1. Use the Bucket’s Full Capacity on Every Load — A full
bucket is more important than speed. Fill a skid steer’s
bucket as you would a wheel loader. Lower the bucket
until it’s fl at on the ground or work surface, then drive
into the bank or pile as far as you can before losing power
or traction. Raise the bucket slightly to make sure that all
tires are fi rmly on the surface; then roll the bucket back to
keep it fully loaded. If the skid steer loader approaches the
pile without enough down pressure on the bucket or with
the bucket not fl at on the ground, a “ramp” of material
Buckets 101: A very full load can spill over the back of the bucket. This reduces
productivity and the spillage can land in the operator’s compartment or
on the operator’s feet, resulting in a potential safety concern.
may accumulate at the front of the pile, reducing loading
effi ciency. Setting a slight downward angle on the bucket
can eliminate this problem. Ordering your skid steer with
ride control will also help increase productivity. Ride
control acts like a shock absorber, cushioning the bucket
from the front-to-back rocking motion that a skid steer
experiences under load. It not only helps you retain more
material per load, it also reduces operator fatigue.
2. Load Loose Material with a Scooping Motion — When
loading from a pile, a scooping motion of the bucket
will result in more productive loading than a gouging or
cutting motion, which is more appropriate to digging and
loading sticky materials.
By Jim Hughes, Marketing Manager of Case Construction Equipment
3. Keep Loaded Buckets as Low as Possible — Keep your
loader’s center of gravity low by keeping your loaded
bucket low. Drive straight up and down slopes with the
heavy end of the machine always uphill. When the loader
is carrying its rated capacity, you can drive it forward up
slopes, but drive down slopes in reverse.
4. Keep the Bucket Level While Unloading — A very full
load can spill over the back of the bucket. This reduces
productivity and the spillage can land in the operator’s
compartment or on the operator’s feet, resulting in a
potential safety concern. When dumping into a truck,
bin or container, drive forward slowly, lift the arms until
the bucket has cleared the container side walls and dump
the load by tilting the bucket fully forward. If your skid
steer is not equipped with self-leveling, be sure to level
the bucket while raising the loader arms. If your operation
involves a lot of truck loading, be sure to order your skid
steer with a self-leveling option.
5. Understand Your Options for Attachments
and Tools — Skid steer loaders are among
the most versatile of construction machines.
Look into the dozens of attachments and
tools that are available and understand
the impact of each attachment on your
application and the effect it may have on
your productivity. If you switch out buckets
and attachments frequently, be sure to order
a hydraulic coupler. It allows you to switch
attachments without ever leaving the seat of
the machine, which makes you much more
productive than manually releasing the
coupler while changing attachments. Talk
to your equipment dealer to make sure you
are using the correct attachments for every
application, that your machine is confi gured
correctly and that you understand the correct
installation and operation for maximum
effi ciency, productivity and safety.
6. Maintain Your Equipment Properly —
Following your skid steer operator’s manual for
daily service checks and routine maintenance
will keep your machine in top condition.
Performing these checks daily and changing the
fl uids at the proper intervals means that your skid
steer loader will operate at peak productivity.
7. Find the Ideal Machine — The most productive skid
steer is the one that provides the operator with ease
of operation, high operator comfort, high visibility
and high productivity so he or she can feel confident
on the jobsite. A confident operator is a productive
operator and that means more money in your pocket.
A productive skid steer is also properly matched to the
application and conditions. Providing your operator
with training, along with appropriate tires, auxiliary
hydraulics, bucket and specialty attachments, as
well as options like A/C, highway safety equipment
(rotating beacons and backup alarms) will maximize
productivity.
18 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Check the Flow
Skid steer loaders often are the go-to earthmover for
landscape, agriculture and construction projects thanks to
their small size and versatility with work tools. Buyers have
a wide range of choices when it comes to manufacturers and
models — even when it comes to hydraulics. Manufacturers
offer high-fl ow and standard-fl ow machines, usually in a
variety of sizes for each confi guration.
1. How It Works — A diesel engine and a set of hydraulic
pumps (drive and implement/auxiliary) comprise a skid
steer loader’s power train. Hydraulic pumps are connected
to the engine; variable displacement pumps provide power
to the hydraulic drive motors and fi xed displacement
pumps provide power to the loader arms, move hydraulic
fl uid through fi lters and provide pressure to run the pilot
controls. Engine speed will determine the amount of
power the system can generate.
2. Hydraulic Ground Drive — When an operator is not running
a work tool, the drive pumps can direct full power
to the wheels or tracks. A lot of power is needed to propel
the machine into a dirt pile and break the load out, but if
the implement pumps were to supply pressure and fl ow
for this operation while the drive pumps were still drawing
max power, the engine could stall. To combat this, some
machines automatically reduce the displacement of the
pumps preventing the engine from stalling while maintaining
torque to the wheels or tracks at a reduced speed,
providing maximum power to the
implement circuit.
3. Gear and Piston Pumps — When
selecting a machine, contractors
should consider the type of
pump the high-fl ow system is using.
Most high-fl ow systems are
designed by adding a gear pump
to the standard fl ow circuit to
add incremental fl ow at the same
system pressure as the standard
system. This increases the available
hydraulic horsepower by
increasing the speed of the work
tool, but it does not provide additional
torque to the work tool.
Additional torque would require
the high-fl ow system to provide
higher system pressure too. Variable
displacement piston pump
high-fl ow systems are currently
the only such systems that provide
higher system pressure.
4. High and Standard Flow — Each
manufacturer may have different
criteria for “high fl ow” or “standard
fl ow” among their own machines.
A machine with a highfl
ow circuit typically exceeds 26
gpm and 3,300 psi. The typical
fl ow for a standard-fl ow machine
is 22 gpm.
By Keith Gribbins, Managing Editor of Compact Equipment
5. Keeping Things Cool — When considering a machine with
high fl ow, it is important to take the cooling capability
of the machine’s hydraulic system into account. Because
high-fl ow machines generate more hydraulic horsepower
they can also generate signifi cantly more heat in the
hydraulic system. Gear pump high-fl ow systems generally
will produce more heat than a variable displacement load
sensing pump system. This is due to the gear pump system
utilizing a relief valve to manage pressure in the auxiliary
circuit.
6. Know Your Tool’s Flow Needs — Generally, a machine with
high-fl ow hydraulics is able to operate work tools designed
for standard-fl ow hydraulic machines, but the reverse
pairing (high-fl ow tools with a standard machine) is not
recommended. The hydraulic system of the standard-fl ow
machine will be unable to supply the fl ow needed to properly
operate the work tool.
7. Rent to Own — For contractors who work most often
in medium-duty applications, owning a standard-fl ow
machine and work tools and renting a high-fl ow machine
for the occasional heavy-duty projects may prove the best
solution. Contractors may also consider renting both
types of machines in order to test their capabilities on real
jobsite conditions.
Hydraulic hose hookups and fi ttings are matched to the machine, ensuring a proper match and
tight fi t eliminating the chance of leaking and loss of pressure. A manufacturer designs the
machine controls to work with specifi c corresponding tools as a system and the pairing is
intended to maximize the performance and controllability of the work tool.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 19

The Complete Cab
If your offi ce is stuffed inside the cab of a skid steer all
day long, shouldn’t you be comfortable? When faced with
dusk till dawn work shifts, cold and hot seasonal swings
and daily dust and debris, a complete cab package for a skid
steer is often a necessity — not an option. Comfort, visibility,
intuitive controls, low noise levels and key operational
features will add to the everyday skid steer experience and
keep your team pleasant and productive.
1. Allow for Increased Visibility — Any operator will tell you,
good visibility from the cab is crucial in order to get the
job done easily and effi ciently. For maximum visibility,
skid steer cabs should feature large, see-through doors,
which provide visibility to all corners. Another feature
that can maximize visibility is a see-through cab roof that
allows for a clear view of the bucket or attachment, even
when it is positioned at its full height. Rear visibility is
equally important, so look for a machine with good rear
visibility, a low engine hood and no rear frame to block
the view. The lights on the machine are not to be ignored
either, so make sure they will be effi cient in dark, dusty or
foggy conditions. The same features that increase visibility
will also give your operators an open, uncluttered sense of
space, helping them increase their focus.
2. Ease-of-Use and Precision — Cab design is sometimes
overlooked, but is a vital contributing factor to the
machine’s ease-of-use and precision. Look for instrument
panels and operator controls that are logically labeled,
highly visible. Also, operator controls that are vertically
positioned will provide easier accessibility and avoid
obstruction of the operator’s view. When it comes to
By Dave December, Brand Marketing Manager for New Holland Construction’s Skid Steers
precision, controls are key. Look for a machine with
hydraulic pilot controls that are low-effort and provide
instant control response with minimum movement,
which will not only offer more precise control, but lessen
operator fatigue.
3. Creature Comforts — If your skid steer crew isn’t comfortable,
they won’t be productive. While contoured arm rests, contoured
suspension seats, climate control and even more comfortable
controls might seem like a luxury, they are features that allow
your crew to focus on the job at hand, rather than an aching
back, sore arm or the sweltering (or freezing) temperatures.
The more comfortable your operators are, the less fatigued and
distracted they will be, greatly increasing overall productivity,
not to mention employee retention.
4. Decreased Noise Levels — Another distraction and discomfort
to your operators can be exterior noise from the
jobsite and from the machine itself. Choose a skid steer
with an enclosed cab or one that features noise-absorbing
or noise-eliminating trim. These will allow for increased
concentration, especially important in challenging jobs
that require absolute precision.
5. Room to Stretch Your Legs — Tied to operator comfort
is the spaciousness of the cab. A larger cab with increased
head and elbow room is not only more comfortable
for your crew, but also allows operators to more easily
navigate the jobsite. But bigger is not always better. With
more spacious cabs, it is important that the percentage
of see-through surface space is also high, to provide
maximum visibility.
This operator is wishing that he ponied up for the enclosed cab when he’s performing loud and dusty tasks with a grinding landscape rake.
A cab decreases noise levels and provides the added comfort needed for eight-hour work shifts in the dirty haze of construction.
20 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Tow to Tow
One morning your skid steer is hauling dirt and gravel,
the next afternoon it’s cold planing asphalt on a job across
town. Versatility is what makes a skid steer such a popular
and productive piece of equipment, but it’s also what makes
it a machine on the move (to the next jobsite). While a
commercial driver’s license is not needed to haul most skid
steers, good towing and hauling practices are a prerequisite
for owning such a mobile machine. Before you load up, strap
down and roll off to your next skid steer job, be sure you
follow the safe and smart guidelines below.
1. Size the Machine and Trailer — Selecting the right trailer
for the job always begins with identifying the dimensions,
weight and loading characteristics of the piece of equipment
you will be hauling. Today’s skid steers are classifi
ed into nine categories by the Association of Equipment
Manufacturers (AEM). They’re classifi ed by rated operating
capacity, which is 50 percent of the loader’s tipping
load (tipping load is the capacity at which the rear wheels
lift off level ground). Most skid steers fall into a wide range
of operating capacities — from 600 to 3,700 lbs. But more
important to your crews is the operating weight of the
skid steer (the weight of the unit including tires, bucket, a
full tank of gas and a 175-lb operator). Most skid steers fall
between 4,000 and 9,900 lbs in operating weight.
2. Hauling Attachments? — Along with your skid steer,
you will need to contemplate what other attachments or
accessories you will be carrying on the trailer. Backpack
blowers? Cold planer attachments? Shovels? Bags of
mulch? Take a backhoe attachment for instance — most
weigh about 2,000 lbs. That extra weight will need to be
added into the trailer formula. After you’ve assessed your
average weight requirements for towing, you will need
to fi nd a trailer with a corresponding GVWR, which is
the gross vehicle weight rating. A 6,000-lb axle weight
trailer, utilizing two 6,000-lb axles, has a GVWR of
12,000 lbs. But then you have to subtract the weight of
By Keith Gribbins, Managing Editor of Compact Equipment
the trailer and that would give you the weight of what
you could haul.
3. Add a Little Extra GVWR — Picking a GVWR that leaves
about 1,500 lbs of excess payload is always a smart idea.
That allows your driver greater margins in safety and
fl exibility in what he or she is hauling that day. And it
adds longer life for the components of the trailer (constant
heavy loads will take their toll).
4. Size the Sides — Along with choosing the best GVWR is
making sure that the length and width of your trailer is
suitable for your crew’s needs. Most skid steers range anywhere
from 4 to 6 ft wide and 10 to 12 ft long, depending
on the make and model, so size your trailer specs accordingly.
Many machine owners go with 16-, 18- or 20-ft long
trailer beds for their skid steer operations, always considering
extra room for attachments. These trailers usually
cost between $1,500 and $6,000 and that price tag gets
even higher once options and hydraulic lifts are added.
5. Getting Hitched — When looking for the right hitch, your
main concern is the weight of the trailer and its payload.
You have two weights to be concerned about here — gross
trailer weight (GTW) and tongue weight (TW). GTW is the
trailer weight plus its contents. The TW is the amount of
weight applied directly on the ball. Once you know these
two weights, you can choose the appropriate hitch in the
right class (typically Class 3, 4 and 5 when considering
skid steer towing). Just make sure your towing vehicle can
handle that weight rating too.
6. Chains and Thangs — Double check to make sure you’ve
got safety chains and that you’ve got them hooked up.
You’re better off to cross those chains, going underneath
the tongue of the trailer diagonally, so that if anything does
happen to the hitch, when the hitch drops, it catches on
those crossed chains rather than digging into the ground.
While a commercial driver’s license is not needed to haul most skid steers, good towing and hauling practices are a prerequisite
for owning such a mobile machine. Most skid steers fall between 4,000 and 9,900 lbs in operating weight, so make sure
you get a truck with a GVWR rating high enough to pull the combined weight of the skid steer and trailer.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 21

Safety First
Skid steers are agile and powerful machines, which
means they need to be handled with equal parts safety and
experience when on a busy jobsite. Not to mention, these
little loaders have the stigma of mediocre visibility, so extra
attention and training is needed to handle a skid steer with
professional-like performance. In the end, a trained operator
is going to be a more productive operator, which means
these fi ve tips will help streamline your crews, as well as keep
them safe.
1. Heads Up for Safety — Always be alert, pay attention
to the jobsite surroundings and follow all safety
and operational direction for the machine by the
manufacturer.
2. The Basics — Ensure to train any operator properly
before allowing them to get into the machine. It’s
essential to have competent and careful operators who
are trained in the safe operation of the machine and
handling of loads. It’s recommended that an operator
have in possession or be capable of obtaining a valid
motor vehicle license.
By Kelly Moore, Gehl Product Manager for Skid Steers and Compact Track Loaders
3. Jobsite Hazards — The use of skid loaders are subject to
certain hazards that cannot be eliminated by mechanical
means, but only by exercising intelligence, care and
common sense. Hazards include, but are not limited to,
hillside operation, overloading, instability of load, poor
maintenance and using the equipment for a purpose that
it is not intended or designed.
4. Various Applications — Different applications may require
optional safety equipment such as a backup alarm, mirror,
strobe light or an impact-resistant front door. Be sure your
operators know the jobsite hazards and that you equip the
machine as needed.
5. Machine Operation — Last, but not least, is proper machine
operation. Ensure all operators know the basics of the
loader they are to operate. Know how to stop the loader
before starting it. Properly fasten and adjust the seatbelt,
in addition to lowering the operator restraint bar. The
controls and operation section of the loader’s operator’s
manual will best cover the proper techniques to safely and
productively operate the loader.
Knowledge is power. First off , became familiar with the loader’s various features and controls. Know how to stop the
loader before starting it. Properly fasten and adjust the seatbelt, in addition to lowering the operator restraint bar.
22 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Versatile Buckets
1. Ballad of the Multipurpose Bucket — This adaptable
bucket is very often shortchanged by calling it a fourin-one
bucket or a clamshell bucket. However, their use
and popularity seems to be fairly regional across North
America for some reason.
2. Load Like a Normal Loader Bucket — The multipurpose
bucket will be heavier than a normal general purpose
bucket, and you may lose a little bucket capacity or
lift capacity due to the difference in design. However,
once you try one, you won’t go back to general purpose
buckets, and no worries, the skid steer has plenty of power
to handle this attachment.
3. Crane It Up — You can open the bucket, mount a hook on
the top lip or just simply wrap a chain or strap around the
back edge and lift materials such as pipe like a crane.
4. Now Scrape It Up — Open the bucket and place both
cutting edges fl ush with the ground. Imagine the two
sections forming a “tent” or “triangle” shape above grade.
Then driving in reverse, you can start to peel layers of
material.
5. Time to Doze — Open the bucket and drive forward. Now
the back edge becomes the dozer blade. It is contoured in
a dozer shape already and allows for good material “roll.”
Circle 7 on reader service card
By Joel Powell, Product Specialist Group Manager for Compact Volvo Construction Equipment
6. Move onto Backfi ling — As with any bucket, place the
loader into the fl oat position, typically by locking the left
pedal or right joystick fully forward and angle the bucket
edge to your preference against the ground. Then you
can drive backward (or forward) and the loader arms will
allow the bucket to fl oat along the contour of the ground
and fi ll in the low spots.
The multipurpose does it all. The bucket is usually quite heavy duty in nature
and makes for great digging and excavating. Just ensure you have a replaceable,
bolt-on cutting edge, so you can prolong the life of your bucket investment.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 23

Unique concrete jobs often call for novel approaches
— especially those small-scale worksites in residential
backyards or bustling city side streets where you make
and sometimes break up a construction project.
If you envision every job as a blank canvas, a versatile
compact utility loader is a great multi-tool to tackle every
artistic aspect of those unique concrete applications. These
machines can be used for a wide range of projects, from
pouring and building a concrete patio to demolishing
it a few years later. Equipped with the right attachment,
compact utility loaders (CUL) have earned the moniker of
a “do-everything machine” for jobs that require specifi c
and multiple hydraulic tools for completion.
Don Reed, sales manager for Ramrod, explains the
ultimate tool carrier simply: “The unit is defi ned by its
attachment,” he says. “A CUL is a power drive unit, so
whatever an operator attaches to it specifi es what it does.
The attachments make it dedicated to a particular task.”
The attachments an operator and crew add to a CUL make
it an ideal machine for pint-sized, one-and-run concrete
projects. By connecting concrete specifi c implements to a CUL
(breakers, buckets and cement bowls for example), a crew can
tackle tough jobs that involve all things concrete. There are
concrete breakers or hammers that come prepared to smash
and split tough material into smaller portions ready to be
hauled away. Then come the concrete buckets and cement
bowls, the brew kits and distributors of viscous concrete
— ideal for shaking, mixing and pouring their materials so
operators and crews can get small projects done, in even
smaller time frames. All three of these attachments can be
attached to a compact utility loader to turn the already hard
working machine into a master of concrete construction.
24 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Breaking Out
When the time comes for destruction, a CUL can be
paired with a concrete breaker to rip, destroy and shatter
the tough material that stands in its way. Concrete breakers
are attachments that are primarily used for demolition
purposes. For example, CUL breakers are often utilized to
break up concrete in driveways, patios and parking lots.
These heavy-duty attachments allow for areas to be broken
apart and carried away for new construction to take place;
attach a grapple bucket to your CUL and haul off the debris.
A concrete breaker is categorized by its impact energy in ftlbs.
The impact energy class can range from 150 to 300 ft-lbs
for compact utility loaders.
“The higher the class of the breaker, the more fl ow and
pressure will be required from the hydraulic system,” explains
Dan Roberts, Toro Sitework technical service representative.
“Concrete breakers are also measured in blows per minute.”
Like all CUL implements, the breaker is attached to
the front end of a CUL through a universal quick-attach
system. For a CUL to operate a breaker, it must produce 8
to 12 gallons per minute (gpm) of hydraulic fl ow for the
attachment to work effi ciently. When using the breaker for
work on sidewalks, driveways, etc., Jaime Wines, product
manager of compact utility equipment for Ditch Witch,
suggests positioning it vertically and lowering it until it
reaches its point of contact. Then the hydraulics should
be activated and the breaker is ready to operate. Although
the breaker attachment is relatively simple to operate,
positioning it when operating may pose some challenges
to the operator.
“The big place you will have diffi culties with breaking
is when you’re working pure horizontally,” says Reed.
“Horizontal operation is not recommended with a compact
utility loader breaker. An operator can work in any other
position than horizontal. It’s mounted so it can be adjusted
any way. When the breaker is working in pure horizontal
applications, you’re just not maximizing its power.”
A breaker attachment for a compact utility loader can
range from $6,000 to $11,000, depending on manufacturer
and any added options.
Different chisel points, moil points and asphalt cutters
are available options to customize a breaker attachment to
accommodate different work conditions. By adding various
dedicated chisel or moil points, an operator can handle
specifi c jobsites with the best possible break point for the
project. Operators should always look to adding options to
customize his or her unit for particular projects.
“It is important to choose the right tool and options for the
material being broken,” says Roberts. “Some manufacturers
offer a tamper tool option in order to compact the soil after
demolition, prior to pouring new material.”
A breaker attachment does require regular maintenance
checks to ensure it is working properly. Today’s breaker
attachments require less maintenance than those prior,
especially with keeping its battery charged.
“If you went back a couple of years, the breaker would need
to be recharged on a frequent basis,” explains Reed. “Now they
can go a year or two before needing to be recharged.” The moils
on the breaker should also be checked to identify any excessive
wear. The material that an operator is hammering is a big factor
in how often the moils will need to be replaced. Another
maintenance concern comes from the CUL itself. Since the attachment
causes a vibration to the machine, parts on the CUL
should be checked to ensure they are fastened on correctly.
“A real challenge lies in that the hammer is vibrating all
the time, so the bushings on the arms of the CUL may need
to be replaced or reinforced,” says Reed. “Regular machines
will need to replace the bushings once or twice a year, while
a dedicated machine will have to reinforce and/or replace
them every six months or a year.”
Not much can stand in the way of a concrete breaker. When utilized correctly, a breaker attachment can smash large pieces of concrete.
Using the breaker in a horizontal position is not recommended; the operator should reposition the attachment to truly maximize its power.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 25

Little in size but mighty in spirit, cement bowls can tackle projects that involve small
amounts of cement or concrete to be dispersed on the jobsite. Ranging in capacities of
2.2 to 3.1 cu ft, bowl attachments are perfect for places where cement trucks don’t fi t.
Other maintenance issues and requirements can be found
with the attachment’s operator’s manual, says Wines. The
manual should be consulted for necessary maintenance
checks throughout the year.
Bowls of Cement
Another attachment that turns a CUL into a concrete
construction machine is a cement bowl. Together, the loader
and attachment work in harmony to complete small-sized
concrete projects. Cement bowls are used to mix materials
on jobsites where bringing in a large concrete truck is
not possible, allowing crews to get their cement projects
completed without losing productivity. Roberts explains that
cement bowl attachments for CULs are attached to an auger
power head, which rotates the bowl. These attachments
usually have paddles and/or fl ighting inside them to mix the
cement as the bowl rotates.
Cement bowls are generally measured by their volume (in
cubic feet) or the weight of the cement they can mix (in
pounds). A cement bowl often can hold and mix more material
than the machine can carry, so capacity in pounds is
a more useful number to compare. The maximum mixing
capacities of cement bowls range from 2.2 to 3.1 cu ft, which
makes them ideal for tackling small jobs where not a lot of
cement is needed.
“A cement bowl would be used for smaller jobs,” says Reed.
“A fencer may use it for cementing post holes. It can be used
for maintenance or small repair jobs. A bucket is good for
projects where a contractor has to
travel a bit for jobs — where you use
a little bit of cement somewhere and
move on to the next project.”
The compact utility loader’s
hydraulic fl ow rate affects the rotation
speed of the cement bowl. A higher
fl ow rate is suggested for operating
the attachment, so operators have
precise control over the cement bowl
and its speed.
“It is good to have higher fl ow rate
for this attachment so operators can
slow the CUL’s engine rpm in order to
turn the bowl at the desired speed,”
says Roberts.
In order to use a cement bowl
attachment, certain precautions
should be taken during and after
operation — considerations that
can ensure productive work on
any jobsite. Roberts offers three
operational tips when using a
cement bowl attachment: 1) do not
exceed the maximum capacity of
the cement bowl; 2) slow down the
bowl’s revolutions when pouring
the cement to avoid spills and
unnecessary jobsite mess; and 3)
clean the bowl while the cement is
still wet to make end-of-day cleanup
quick and easy.
A cement bowl attachment for a
CUL costs between $600 and $1,000,
depending on the manufacturer. Just
don’t forget the simple maintenance,
which must be performed to the
attachment. The bowl should be
cleaned out after every use; Wines recommends for an
operator to refer to the attachment’s operator’s manual for
proper maintenance. When storing the attachment between
uses, make sure the bowl is clean and kept in a position
where it will not retain water.
“Keep the cement bowl out of rain and other weather
elements,” says Reed. “The attachment is made of metal and
could possibly rust.”
Concrete Mix Up
Like a child shaking two dice in their hands and carefully
dropping them onto a game board, CULs employ the
same tactics when using a concrete bucket. The mixture is
ground fi nely in the bucket and dispersed precisely onto
the jobsite. Concrete buckets are attachments used to mix
and discharge cement or concrete in tight work areas where
cement trucks are not an option or one isn’t needed because
it is a small job.
“Buckets are good for small- to medium-sized jobs. You can
use it for fi xing a portion of driveway or patio,” says Reed.
“Landscapers, fencers, demolition guys and contractors
would fi nd them useful.”
Sizes of concrete buckets vary depending on the size
of the CUL and what necessary jobs it must perform.
There are standard buckets and heavy-duty reinforced
buckets available, says Reed. A reinforced bucket employs
heavier-gauge steel, so it can handle larger capacities on
26 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Five Tips for Operating a Concrete Breaker
Dan Roberts, Toro’s Sitework Technical Service Representative, Off ers Advice for Operators and Crews Using Concrete Breakers
1. The Pressure’s On
Never operate the breaker without pressure on the tool. This is called
dry fi ring and can damage the breaker housing, the tool or the CUL.
2. Piece by Piece
When breaking the material, work in small sections — start at the
edge of the material and work toward the center. Attempting to
break too much material at once can cause the bit to get stuck,
causing unnecessary injury to the attachment or CUL.
3. No Prying Allowed
Do not use the breaker to pry material. This is a common mistake
operators make. Excessive prying with the breaker will damage the
attachment and decrease its service life.
4. Stuck in a Rut
If the breaker does get stuck, do not use the drive system’s hydraulics to
release it. In doing so, an operator can cause harm to the breaker or CUL.
5. Easy Upkeep
Grease the tool and pivot points daily. If the breaker has a bushing
that supports the tool, it needs to be greased regularly to prevent
damage to the housing.
the jobsite. Bucket capacities typically range between 4.7
and 13.5 cu ft.
A concrete bucket mixes the material and prepares it
to pour. The attachment uses a discharge chute to place
concrete exactly where it is needed, which is ideal for an
operator to have precise control when fi lling a small area
with concrete. Concrete jobs can be completed quickly, as
a full bucket can be discharged in 50 seconds. According to
Reed, Ramrod offers a bucket that can be tilted 85 degrees,
while most other units angle around 60 degrees.
A concrete bucket can range in price from $1,500 to
$6,000, depending on the manufacturer and options added
to the attachment.
The available options for concrete buckets include powered
and non-powered, varying sizes and side or front discharge.
Side delivery buckets allow the operator to dump the concrete
to the left or right, rather than forward, says Reed. This
option enables the operator to pour the mix without having
to backup the CUL and pull forward. Concrete buckets have a
similar maintenance regimen as cement bowls. In particular,
the bucket should be cleaned immediately after use.
“It’s important to keep the bucket clean after using it,”
explains Reed. “Otherwise the concrete can cake up inside.
Just spray it down and it’s clean and ready to go for the
next time.”
Next time a compact utility loader is called upon to
complete a concrete specifi c job, operators can look to three
different attachments that can defi ne the machine’s purpose
and practicality. Whether it’s destroying already constructed
concrete or mixing up a new batch, there’s an attachment
that can help get the job done right.
Pam Stask is assistant editor of Compact Equipment.
Circle 8 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 27

When hauling concrete around a jobsite, many contractors use a specialized
little loader like a power buggy. But what most crews don’t realize is that
a power buggy can also double up, hauling rock, dirt, mulch, landscaping
bricks, trees, shrubberies, sand, sod, fertilizer, gravel and every other small
material you need around the work site.
“Power buggies aren’t just for hauling concrete anymore,” says Kurt Jenicek, rental
manager at Nu Way in St. Louis.
Dedicated haul and dump vehicles, power buggies are used to reduce cycle times
and manual labor when transporting jobsite materials. Traditionally, power buggies
have been used for transporting and placing concrete on construction jobs where site
restrictions prevent easy access for a dump truck. No longer just a tool for construction
contractors, power buggies are also used by landscapers and maintenance crews, as
well as weekend warriors and do-it-yourselfers.
“Power buggies are a cost-eff ective and labor-effi cient way to transport, dump and
spread bulk materials,” says David Spears, product manager, Terex Power Products. “Small,
maneuverable and lightweight, you can easily use a power buggy in applications where
bigger equipment, like skid steers or backhoe loaders, won’t fi t or are not practical.”
Also, says Spears, power buggies are designed with tub splash protection so they do
not slush materials during hauling and placing, allowing workers to move more material
per trip.
Today, innovative users are putting their power buggies to work on site preparation,
landscaping, pool installation, demolition and debris removal, maintenance and
cleanup projects. Power buggies are also being used in day-to-day applications around
cemeteries, golf courses and nurseries.
Spears mentions more unique applications he’s heard of are farmers who use power
buggies to haul manure, feed and tools. And, paper mills are using power buggies to
haul timber and sawdust.
“Because power buggies can fi t through standard 36-in. doorways, you can use
them on both indoor and outdoor worksites,” says Spears. “They are easy to operate,
they have low acquisition and maintenance costs, and they run on standard gasoline.
The uses and applications for these machines are endless.”
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 29

Power buggies cost $7,500 to $10,000, depending on the options, says Spears. And, because they do not have gearboxes, transmissions,
driveshafts or clutches to wear out or breakdown, power buggies are low maintenance machines, making them cost-eff ective to own.
The Basics about Buggies
Essentially, power buggies are labor-saving devices
— replacing the physical stress on workers armed with
wheelbarrows. Power buggies basically come in three bucket
capacity sizes — 11, 16 and 21 cu ft. A standard wheelbarrow
only offers workers a 6-cu ft capacity.
“To pick the size of power buggy that is right for you, it
is important to know how much material you need to haul
and how far you need to haul it,” says Jenicek.
The smallest power buggy available on the market is the
11-cu ft capacity, walk-behind model. This model utilizes
an 8-hp engine with a hydrostatic powertrain drive — the
operator only needs to select forward or reverse and squeeze
a handlebar lever for propulsion — and a single-lever
hydraulic dump mechanism. The 11-cu ft power buggy has
the ability to transport up to a 1,600-lb payload capacity and
to travel 3 to 4 mph.
The most popular model on the market is the ride-on, 16-cu
ft power buggy, according to Spears. With a 2,500-lb payload
capacity, this mid-size buggy is engineered with an 11- to 13hp
engine, as well as the hydrostatic powertrain and hydraulic
dump mechanism. This unit travels 6 to 7 mph.
The ride-on, 21-cu ft power buggy is the largest size
available. With an 18-hp engine and 3,200-lb payload
capacity, this size offers the most capacity for the price. Like
the 11- and 16-cu ft models, the 21-cu ft buggy also has the
hydrostatic powertrain and hydraulic dump mechanism.
This unit travels 7 mph.
Little Buggies Off er Big Savings
According to Spears, if you compare using a standard
wheelbarrow to a 16-cu ft power buggy, one power buggy
would be the equivalent of using three wheelbarrows, and a
21-cu ft power buggy is the same as using four wheelbarrows.
Power buggies get more done per dollar, or per hour, of labor.
For example, to move 10 yds of material 200 ft, it would take:
Wheelbarrow…………….50 trips at 3 mph
16-cu ft buggy…………...20 trips at 6.5 mph
21-cu ft buggy…………...13 trips at 6.5 mph
For a 400-ft round trip, it is:
Wheelbarrow…………50 trips x 400 ft = 20,000 ft traveled
16-cu ft buggy………..20 trips x 400 ft = 8,000 ft traveled
21-cu ft buggy.……….13 trips x 400 ft = 5,200 ft traveled
With 5,280 ft to a mile, that equals:
Wheelbarrow……………3.78 miles
16-cu ft buggy…………..1.51 miles
21-cu ft buggy…………..1.00 mile
Translate that into the time it takes to transport the material:
Wheelbarrow…………3.78 miles at 3 mph = 75 min.
16-cu ft buggy………..1.51 miles at 6.5 mph = 15 min.
21-cu ft buggy………..1 mile at 6.5 mph = 8 min.
Now add up the cost of four laborers on the job at $20 per
hour each to load and transport the material:
Wheelbarrow…..$80/hr x 1 ¼ hours = $100 labor
16-cu ft buggy…..$80/hr x ¼ hours = $20 labor
21-cu ft buggy…..$80/hr x 8 minutes = $12 labor
Some manufacturers off er a fl atbed option, instead
of a bucket for their power buggies, which is great for
hauling timber or wooden pallets in a busy supply yard.
30 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

“Labor requirements and the size of
the job will most often dictate whether
you should utilize a power buggy, but
convenience is an important factor too,”
says Jenicek. “Using a power buggy instead
of a wheelbarrow saves on physical labor,
as well as the time and money it takes to
haul material from point A to point B.”
Options Increase
Buggy Potential
Options make power buggies more
versatile and maximize their usages in
a wide variety of applications. Power
buggies are pretty simple machines
with only a few options, including
polyethylene or steel buckets, fl otation
or foam-fi lled tires and pull or electric
start. Some manufacturers offer a fl atbed
option, instead of the bucket, as well as
tracks vs. wheels. So, how do users know
which options make the most sense
for their needs? It all depends on the
applications.
“When selecting options for your
power buggy, you need to know what
type of material you will be moving and
in what ground conditions you’ll be
operating on,” says Spears.
Jenicek concurs: “If you haul a lot of
stone, block or timber, you may want
your power buggy equipped with a
fl atbed rather than a bucket. If you are
doing demolition work, foam-fi lled tires
are a better option because you don’t
have to worry about fl ats. Tracks may be
the best option for you if you’re working
in sandy, muddy or other diffi cult soil
conditions. But, fl otation tires are better
if you’re working on sensitive turf or wet
grass. You may choose a steel bucket if you
use your buggy for landscaping or debris
removal projects because it is harder to
puncture poly. The poly bucket is most
often used in concrete applications due
to the ease of cleanup.”
Easy on the Pocket Book
Power buggies cost $7,500 to $10,000,
depending on the options, says Spears.
Because they do not have gearboxes,
transmissions, driveshafts or clutches to
wear out or breakdown, power buggies
are low maintenance machines, making
them cost-effective to own.
To keep a power buggy in good working
condition, no matter what applications
it’s doing, it is important to follow the
daily service checks. Be sure to: check
engine and hydraulic oil levels, as well
as the fuel level; examine the hydraulic
lines for leaks, breaks or holes; check to
make sure the tires are properly infl ated
and the tread is not worn; and grease all
the fi ttings. Also, to maximize the buggy’s payload capacity, these units need
to be thoroughly cleaned out at the end of each work day to remove all excess
material.
Maximizing the Potential
According to Jenicek, 75 to 80 percent of people are still using power
buggies for concrete work, but because these universal haulers can easily
get in and out of congested worksites, are easy to maintain and have
heavy-duty capacity, they continue to grow in popularity with more nontraditional
users.
“It comes down to simple economics,” concludes Jenicek. “It is simply faster,
cheaper and easier to use a power buggy.”
Amber Reed is a technical writer with Performance Marketing, West Des Moines, Iowa.
Circle 9 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 31

Every compressor salesperson claims to have the best
product for the best price, but how can a contractor determine
they’re getting the right compressor for the job? How does
a contractor know what size compressor is needed? How
powerful should the engine be? What should you expect of
your dealer or rental house?
According to Ted Flatt, director of strategic accounts for
portable compressors at Ingersoll Rand, keep one thing in
mind when choosing a compressor: What is the compressed
air going to drive? Once you know the application, it’s
just a matter of matching the intended use to a specifi c
compressor size.
Applications
The majority of uses for compressed air in construction
applications are for cleaning, blasting, renovation, installation
or demolition.
Abrasive Blasting
Abrasive blasting applications use compressed air to remove
scale, paint and rust from surfaces in order to prepare metal
surfaces for painting, enameling and tinting. Compressors
can also be used in conjunction with abrasive materials,
such as sand and steel grit, to blast paint and residue off of
bridges and water towers.
Painting
In painting applications, compressors are used to power
painting tools and speed painting productivity on a variety
of surfaces. For example, truck-mounted compressor models
are often used for highway line painting.
Utility
Compressed air can be used in utility applications to operate air
tools when repairing electric, water and sewer lines. Contractors
can also use the air pressure for line testing to ensure there are no
leaks and determine whether or not a line is able to hold certain
levels of pressure. Compressors are also often used for powering
directional drilling equipment laying fi ber-optic cable.
Demolition
Portable compressors are an ideal power source for pneumatic
and hydraulic tools used to break concrete pavement,
demolish concrete foundations and walls, as well as to cut
pavement and sub-base.
“Tools designed to be used with air compressors will have
a pressure and volume rating listed on them,” says Flatt. “By
knowing those two numbers, it’s just a matter of selecting
the model that provides enough pressure and volume to run
the tool. Basically, selecting a compressor requires matching
the intended application to the pressure and volume of air
necessary to complete the project.”
32 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

The most important intangible factor to consider when making a purchase is the sales support that comes with the compressor —
parts, service, warranties and the relationship with the dealer. The dealer should serve as a consultant when selecting the best compressor.
Pressure and Volume
Pressure and volume are the two most important variables
when selecting a compressor. Pressure is notated in terms of
pounds-per-square inch (psig), and volume is referenced in
terms of cubic-feet-per-minute (cfm).
Most manufacturers offer a wide range of diesel-driven
portable compressors starting at 90 to 1,600 cfm and pressure
ranging from 100 to 350 psig. Some compressor distributors
carry smaller, portable electric compressor models
ranging from 2.6 to 15 cfm, as well as larger, tow-behind
or skid-mounted models. For the majority of construction
applications, a contractor needs a compressor in the 90- to
250-cfm range.
Pressure
When selecting the compressor, the fi rst variable to
investigate is the pressure rating, according to Flatt. An
understanding of pressure rating can be derived from
the particular model name on the compressor unit. For
example, Flatt says Ingersoll Rand has assigned a lettering
system to each model in order to understand each unit’s
operating pressure output. For example, the letter “P”
equals 100 psig, the letters “HP” equal 150 psig, the letters
“VHP” equal 250 psig and the letters “XHP” equal 350 psig.
Most general construction applications, which include
operating light pneumatic tools, require a compressor
with at least 100 psig. Applications such as blasting or
painting can require compressors with operating pressure
in the 150-psig range.
Volume
According to Flatt, the second variable a contractor needs
to determine when choosing the right compressor is the
amount of air volume necessary to operate the tool. The
volume rating of the compressor can also be identifi ed by
the number on the compressor. All manufacturers use the
same numbering system for the volume rating, so it is easy to
identify the volume of air being delivered by the compressor.
For instance, a compressor with 185 in the model name
denotes a unit that outputs 185 cfm of air.
Tool Guidelines
Determine the necessary volume for the application by
the size and the number of tools that will be running off
the compressor. The more tools expected to run off one
compressor, the higher volume of compressor will be needed.
Any compressor distributor will be able to provide the
necessary cfm for each tool and can help determine which
size of compressor is needed to fulfi ll the requirements of
the job.
A good guide to follow when selecting a compressor is
to size the compressor for the maximum tool-to-cfm ratio
of the tools expected to be used. This is true whether one
or multiple tools are employed. For multiple tools, add up
the cfm required from each tool and size the compressor
accordingly to the total cfm needed. For a single tool, size
the compressor to run one, two or three of that particular
tool.
For instance, the largest paving breaker might be approximately
85 cfm; therefore, to operate one breaker a 90-cfm
compressor is needed, for two breakers a 185-cfm sized compressor
is needed or to run three breakers a 250-cfm compressor
should be used. The most common air compressor
for general contractors offers approximately 185 cfm. This
size of unit will comfortably operate two pneumatic tools,
such as a paving breaker or clay spade.
“When you know what the tool’s cfm rating is, sizing
a compressor to meet the application is very easy to do,”
says Flatt.
What to Consider When Making a Purchase
“All compressor manufacturers in the 90- to 250-cfm range
offer oil-fl ooded, rotary screw models with asymmetrical
profi les,” says Flatt. “So, when it comes down to choosing
the brand of compressor, consider other factors.”
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 33

One way to determine if a compressor is right is by looking
at its “design margin.” Design margin is the ideal operating
level of a machine — the level at which a machine can
produce without working too hard.
One of the most important components of any portable
compressor is the engine. Most portable air compressors
are rated as either continuous or intermittent duty. For
compressors that run all the time, engine horsepower
“margin” (ideal operating level) is typically 85 percent of its
maximum rated horsepower. Compressors that are stopped
and started repeatedly have a horsepower margin of 93
percent of their maximum output.
The engine is the item on the compressor that experiences
the highest amount of wear, according to Flatt. “The actual
compressor doesn’t wear or cause problems. As long as the
manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is
regularly followed and care is taken with the engine, the
compressor will have a long working life.”
Contractors should also be confi dent that the engine is
going to last. Flatt suggests investing in an engine that has
a warranty to back it up and is convenient to have serviced.
“The perfect situation for any purchaser is to buy a piece of
equipment, put it to work in the fi eld and never hear about
it again,” says Flatt.
Options to Consider
Compressors come standard with tail lights and clearance
lights to adhere to government safety regulations, but other
features such as composite end panels, which are more
corrosion resistant and better withstand jobsite conditions,
will help distinguish competitive models.
“A-frame towbars provide greater stability to the unit
during towing because of its wider base design,” says
Flatt, “and lockable latches that protect the unit against
vandalism, are both options that don’t always come
standard but should be considered when purchasing a
compressor.”
Other options to keep in mind when choosing your
compressor are: diagnostic display lights, a generator, a
central drain line and independent torsional suspension,
as well as additional choices, including hoses and fi ttings,
a hose reel, a larger battery, an adjustable hitch, a spare tire
and electric and hydraulic brakes.
An Important Factor
According to Flatt, the most important intangible factor to
consider when making a purchase is the sales support that
comes with the compressor — parts, service, warranties and
the relationship with the dealer.
The dealer should serve as a consultant when selecting the
best compressor. Once the application for the compressor
is determined, the dealer should be able to help match
the intended use to a specifi c compressor size. The dealer
should also be able to provide a guarantee of support after
the sale.
“The reputation of the compressor manufacturer and the
brand name on the product drive customers in this market
to buy,” says Flatt. “If a dealer or a manufacturer’s support
network doesn’t satisfy contractor needs, purchase from one
that does. In the end, sales support is the most valuable part
of the purchase.”
Amber Reed is a technical writer with Performance Marketing in
West Des Moines, Iowa.
A good guide to follow when selecting a compressor is to size the compressor for the maximum tool-to-cfm ratio of the tools
expected to be used. For instance, the largest paving breaker might be approximately 85 cfm; therefore, to operate
one breaker a 90-cfm compressor is needed and for two breakers a 185-cfm sized compressor is needed.
34 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

This Month on CE Unbound:
AEM Releases Annual Outlook Report
Construction Equipment Manufacturers
Forecast Modest Growth in 2008
(Expanded Version Online — Print Version on Page 12)
Keys to Keen Operation
The Minds Behind the Machines
Offer Skid Steer Insights
(Expanded Version Online — Print Version on Page 16)
Check Back for an Exclusive Online Video
Truck Overload
A Crash Course in Dump Truck Selection
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Get ready to test your luck at the
34th annual World of Concrete (WOC), the international
commercial concrete and masonry construction show,
Jan. 21-25 at the Convention Center in Las Vegas.
While it may not be as nerve-racking or risky as slot
machines and blackjack, this year’s expo will off er
hundreds of new products, the latest equipment and
technological innovations in the industry, as well as an
informative education program — a winning hand for
any construction professional. Not to be missed, indoor
and outdoor demonstrations are available where
attendees can test products before deciding to buy.
Here, participants not only get to view the equipment,
but possibly make key purchases for their businesses.
Noted as the largest annual international show for
the commercial concrete and masonry industries,
WOC attracts attendees ready to see the newest
products in the industry to help develop and further
their business. For many concrete professionals, this
is the most important show to see. At WOC 2007, 60
percent of attendees listed seeing new products as
their main reason for attending. Last year’s WOC show
also attracted 1,739 exhibitors and a record number
of professional registrants of 91,628 attendees — the
largest show in the event’s history.
WOC showcases the many trades that make up the
concrete industry. Among those trades, the World of Masonry
will be on hand to display the latest masonry innovations.
With more than 35,000 sq ft of exhibit space, professionals
can see and try all the latest masonry products,
equipment and technology through interactive exhibits.
Concrete Knowledge
A key component of WOC is the educational program.
Known as the best how-to educational program in the
business, the 2008 curriculum will off er more than 150
sessions, as well as new educational tracks, continuing education
opportunities and a Master Certifi cate program.
This year, the Master Certifi cate program has taken
on a new look. Now, both three-hour and 90-minute
seminars will qualify toward the certifi cate to add
36 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

more options and fl exibility to the 12hour
course requirement. The revised
program requires nine hours in one
of the eight, three-hour designated
tracks and three hours in either another
three-hour track of your choice
or two, 90-minute sessions to become
a certifi ed Master.
The 2008 WOC education program
will be based on the recommendations
of the newly-created WOC Education
Advisory Committee. The committee
consists of 10 industry experts and
practitioners representing contractors,
consultants, architects, concrete
industry associations, manufacturers
and publications.
To adapt to the ever-growing desire
to go green, a new track has been added
to the 2008 agenda called Green
Building. Since sustainability and environmental
friendly construction is
in demand, this track of six, 90-minute
sessions is a timely addition to the
WOC Education Program.
New for 2008, continuing education
opportunities are expanding to include
three-hour seminars, as well as the 90minute
sessions. All educational sessions
will be submitted for American Institute
of Architects Continuing Education Systems
(AIA/CES) learning units and Professional
Development Hours (PDH).
On Jan. 21 and 22, the two-day Occupational
Safety and Health Administration
(OSHA) 10-hour Construction
Safety for Concrete Construction
course will take place. This safety course
satisfi es OSHA’s construction safety
training requirements. Upon successful
completion of the course, participants
will receive an OSHA 10-hour
safety training completion card.
The popular Women in Concrete
Luncheon and Forum is a go for 2008.
Serving as a great networking opportunity
for women in construction, the
event has sold out the past two years.
A total of four sessions will address issues
of concern for women in the construction
industry.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 37

Takeuchi
The TB138FR mini excavator features a
patented side-to-side offset boom system
combined with zero tail swing, which allows
the TB138FR to swivel 360 degrees, only
inches beyond the excavator’s track width. A
low center of gravity offers the stability and
craning capacities of conventional excavators
and the added functionality of working in
exceptionally confi ned areas.
The TB138FR is available with an open
canopy or fully enclosed cab. Cabin units
come equipped with heater, A/C, defroster,
wiper and retractable front window with a
removable lower section. Operator comfort,
performance, stability and durability are
incorporated into each machine design to
bring you an unmatched experience. RS#50
Ditch Witch
The Ditch Witch organization introduces a new
family of trenchers. The new Zahn Series consists
of three power units and a set of compatible front
ends. One of these machines is the Zahn R300,
which is designed to be more powerful, more
productive and faster than any trencher in the
30-hp class. The Zahn R300 power unit includes
a Kohler gas engine, operator’s console and
articulation joint that enables the front end to
perform like a dedicated unit. The two-wheel drive
R300 powers two types of front-end trenchers,
while its four-wheel drive InterChange counterpart
accepts up to seven types of front ends: trencher,
plow, dumper, tiller, backhoe, stump grinder and
a tool carrier that can drive more than 40 quickchange
attachments. RS#51
JLG’s G5-18A Super Compact Telehandler
The Newest Addition to JLG Allows Operators to Lift High in Tight Jobsite Conditions
JLG Industries Inc. announces the introduction of the G5-18A super
compact telehandler for the construction, landscape and agricultural
markets. The G5-18A super compact telehandler combines operator
comfort and machine maneuverability with lift capacity and reach
to create a versatile and powerful compact telehandler. The G5-18A
boasts a 5,500-lb maximum lifting capacity and 1,850-lb capacity at
the fully extended reach of 11 ft.
The machine comes standard with three operator-selectable
steering modes including four-wheel circle, four-wheel crab and twowheel
steering. The 126-in. turning radius makes it a top choice for
confi ned or congested work areas.
Landscapers will fi nd this compact model ideal for: transporting
pallets of sod, stone and brick; for loading and unloading mulch; for
transporting large nursery stock; and for a multitude of other tasks.
The G5-18A’s 18-ft maximum boom height and over 10 ft of reach allows
the operator to access hard to reach areas such as over retaining
walls and deep into enclosed trucks and fl atbeds. RS#52
38 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Caterpillar
The new Caterpillar B2 Series of skid steer loaders
and multi terrain loaders feature an improved operator
station, an advanced hydraulic system and a wide range
of standard features and options designed to meet a
variety of production and comfort requirements in
compact machines.
Six skid steer loaders, the 216B2, 226B2, 232B2, 242B2,
236B2 and 252B2, and two new multi terrain loaders,
the 247B2 and 257B2, form the new B2 Series line of
machines. The quality and performance improvements
in the eight machines are highlighted by the use of the
Power Edge Trade dress.
All B2 Series machines have ergonomic operator
stations that feature easy-to-use, pilot-operated joystick
controls for reduced operator fatigue and increased
productivity. High-performance power trains provide
high engine horsepower and torque, allowing partthrottle
operation for lower sound levels and fuel
consumption. RS#53
Terex
The Terex PB16 and PB21 hydraulic power
buggies feature simultaneous, variable-hydraulic
dump and hydrostatic drive capability to allow for
feathering of loads in forward and reverse. The two
models available have a load capacity of 16 and 21
cu ft. The power to the unit is supplied through
a heavy-duty hydraulic pump and two effi ciency
driver motors for high speeds, up to 7.25 mph at
4,000 rpm and more reliable, hydraulically-controlled
braking, with a mechanical parking brake.
The PB16 can carry a maximum load of 2,500 lbs
and has a 3.5-in. discharge height. It is designed
with a 13-hp Honda engine and has a 1,260-lb operating
weight. The PB21 carries a maximum load
of 3,200 lbs and has a 4.75-in. discharge height.
This unit comes with an 18-hp Briggs and Stratton
engine and has a 1,480-lb operating weight. RS#55
John Deere
Two new additions to the John Deere skid steer
family — the 313 and 315 — feature the same unifi ed
design as the rest of the line and continue the 300
Series advantages of superior stability, visibility and
serviceability.
These two models are compact and maneuverable,
yet powerful with rated operating capacities of
1,300 and 1,500 lbs. They feature industry leading
45-hp engines that are certifi ed to EPA Interim Tier
4 emissions levels, as well as electronic controls for
superior idle stability, cold start performance and
transient response.
Features like 10- by 16.5-in. tires for traction
and fl otation, heavy-duty drive chains that never
need adjusting and best-in-class visibility provides
outstanding safety while operating in tight spaces.
RS#54
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 39

Ingersoll Rand
Ingersoll Rand
Ingersoll Rand features the BXR-300E reversible, vibratory
plate compactor, weighing 716 lbs and designed for compaction
of granular soils, mixed soils and well-graded aggregates.
Key features of the BXR-300E include a high-position handle
to increase maneuverability, sealed exciter bearings to reduce
maintenance and shock mounts to isolate vibration from the
engine and guide handle.
This model is powered by an air-cooled, 6.7-hp Yanmar diesel
engine and an electric start to provide years of dependable
operation. An engine protection cage prevents damage to the
unit during use and transport.
With a patent-pending vibration system, this model generates
smooth, reversible movement to ensure productivity. The reversing
feature changes the unit’s travel direction and allows the operator
to enter and exit a work area along the same path. RS#56
Genie
Genie has redesigned its GTH-1048 and
GTH-1056 rough terrain telehandlers to easily
maneuver in tight spaces without compromising
reach and lift capacity. Whether they are
needed to lift or set materials around a worksite,
both are ideal machines for moving heavy
loads, like steel and bricks, with a maximum
lift capacity up to 10,000 lbs. The GTH-1048
has 31 ft of outreach and is capable of lifting
6,000 lbs to 48 ft and the GTH-1056 features
an outreach of 40 ft and lifts 4,000 lbs to 56
ft. With an outside turning radius of just under
14 ft and three different steering modes — crab,
coordinated and front wheel — the GTH-1048
and GTH-1056 come standard with a multitude
of features that allow easy maneuverability
around tight jobsites. Both offer the choice of
a turbocharged, four-cylinder Perkins or John
Deere diesel engine and both feature standard
four-wheel drive. RS#58
FFC
The concrete claw from FFC is available with a
24-in. working width. It’s the perfect attachment
for removing concrete on sidewalks, driveways or
any construction site. It features high-strength cast
replacement points and end plates and tooth shanks
made with high-strength T1 steel. It also offers a 1-
by 8-in. wear resistant pacal steel tapered cutting
edge and name brand replaceable points with 1
1/2-in. wide shanks. Rubberized fl ex pins securely
fasten replaceable points. The Claw’s teeth slide
under the concrete to lift and load. It provides easy
transportation and disposal of heavy concrete slabs
and allows for a cleaner, quicker and more effi cient
method of concrete removal. It also comes with a
standard one-year warranty on structure. RS#57
40 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Bobcat
Bobcat expands its line of hydraulic breaker attachments with the
introduction of the HB280 and HB2380. The HB280 is a smaller version of
current Bobcat hydraulic breakers and the HB2380 is a larger model that
brings the breaker line into the 1,000 ft-lbs impact energy class.
The HB2380 is approved for use on Bobcat large-frame loaders and the
442 ZTS compact excavator. With a hydraulic fl ow range of 19.8 to 33 gpm,
the HB2380 provides 600 to 950 blows per minute and has a CIMA rating
of 700 ft-lbs. A nail point is standard on the HB2380. Other available tools
include blunt tools, chisels and moil points.
Like the other Bobcat hydraulic breaker models, which are intended for
concrete and general demolition work, the HB280 and HB2380 have an
internal design with few moving parts to reduce overall service time. RS#59
Bradco
The Bradco planer is a culmination of innovation and
end-user requests made over the past few years to meet the
demanding requirements of current contract asphalt and
concrete milling. It weighs more than other competitive
units and that prevents operator and loader arm fatigue.
It has independent self-leveling depth adjusting skids
and wheels that prevent drifting depth. It also boasts a
piston motor and wheel planetary drive that eliminates
a support bearing for the milling drum and allows side
plate removal to get up close to curbs, gutters and other
objects. In all, this unit meets or exceeds 90 percent of the
municipal bid specs currently written. RS#61
Sweepster
Sweepster’s CS high dump sweeper for TLBs and compact
wheel loaders makes existing equipment more versatile when
the CS turns your loader into an effi cient sweeper. The sweeper
follows ground contours independently of the loader with four
casters and a unique parallel linkage mounting not available on
other loader-mounted sweepers. The 26- and 32-in. diameter
brushes provide maximum sweeping effectiveness for street,
intersection, bridge deck and parking lot cleaning. The clam
shell dump design empties the sweeper hopper into trucks or
containers at the maximum lift height of the loader. RS#60
Circle 17 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 41

Coneqtec/Universal
Coneqtec/Universal is showcasing
its slot cutter SSG Series at this
year’s World of Concrete. Contractors
can use the power of their skid
steer and the Coneqtec/Universal
slot cutter to slice through concrete
to its base level. The operator
can change cut depth using skid
steer bucket controls. High-torque
direct drive motors deliver power
directly to the cutting wheel. It is
available with a 9-in. or the new
12-in. cutting wheel. This product
and other Coneqtec equipment
can be seen at WOC booth
#C6798. RS#62
Allied Construction
Products
Allied Construction Products LLC’s
Hammerhead II Model HB 550 is a totally
self-contained hydraulic concrete slab
buster designed to demolish concrete
fl atwork. The concrete is rubblized at a
45-degree angle from the point of impact.
This concrete fl atwork includes fl oors,
driveways, bridge decks and roadways
up to 12 in. thick. Using only three
moving parts, the Hammerhead II offers
a simple, rugged design that minimizes
maintenance and repair costs.
Hammerhead II can operate either
vertically or horizontally on any concrete
surface thanks to an internal hydraulic
cylinder and a valve system that compresses
a heavy compression spring set. RS#64
Stone Construction Equipment
Stone Construction Equipment
Stone Construction Equipment Inc. combines
its Champion silo mixers with its new
grout placing system — the Groutzilla placement
system — for an unbeatable material
mixing and placement package. Both the mixer
and placement system have been designed
specifi cally for contractors and dealers to be
more productive, reliable, serviceable and
operator friendly. Together, they can increase
productivity and reduce commercial and
industrial jobsite expenses by minimizing
clean-up and downtime waiting for grout
delivery trucks and mixing only the amount
needed. The silo mixers are ideal for jobs where
mortar, grout, plaster and color mixes are
supplied in pre-blended bulk bags. RS#63
42 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Atlas Copco
Atlas Copco Construction Tools LLC’s
new multi grapples feature large hydraulic
cylinders that provide high closing forces
and short cycle times, making the attachments
ideal for sorting and loading rubble,
as well as demolition of masonry and
wooden structures. The new multi grapple
line includes the MG 1000, MG 800 and
MG 500. At a service weight of 2,039 lbs,
the MG 1000 delivers a maximum closing
force of 4.7 tons. RS#65
Gehl
Gehl Co., a leading manufacturer of
compact equipment for construction and
agriculture applications, is pleased to present
the model RS5-19 telescopic handler.
Designed with a compact frame and tight
turning radius of 11 ft, it can maneuver
in low buildings and confi ned jobsites like
no other machine on the market. The RS5-
19 is a low-profi le machine with an overall
height of 6 ft, 4 in. making operating
in buildings, under parking garages and in
confi ned areas easy. The boom reaches to
a height of 19 ft, 1 in. RS#66
Danuser
The Danuser Industrial Group auger bucket mixes, transports and dispenses
concrete, sand, washed gravel, asphalt, wildlife feed, agricultural grains, etc. It
has a 1/2-yd capacity for 22 bags (80 lbs each) of premix concrete. A 3/4-yd capacity
is available
with an optional
hopper extension.
The auger
bucket provides
accurate and controlled
discharge
— a half yd in 50
seconds. A quickattach
frame is
located on both
sides to allow
right- or left-hand
discharge. The attachment
allows
for excellent operator
visibility.
Two multi-linked
chutes, 24 in. and
36 in. long, and a
7-in. hose kit are
included with the
bucket. RS#67
Circle 10 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 43

Products
Komatsu Ltd. was fi rst established in 1921, manufacturing
mining equipment in Komatsu City, Japan. In the late 1980s,
Komatsu introduced its fi rst compact excavators to the United
States construction market. Today, Komatsu is marketing its fourth
generation of nine compact hydraulic excavators in the United
States — the PC09-1, PC18MR-2, PC20MR-2, PC27MR-2, PC35MR-2,
PC40 MR-2 and PC50MR-2 models, all of which are manufactured in
Kawagoe, Japan, and the PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6 are manufactured
in Komatsu City. All Komatsu compact hydraulic excavators are
minimum swing radius by design, allowing them to work in areas
where space is limited such as urban areas, streets and homes.
A retractable undercarriage is available on the PC09-1 and
PC18MR-2. The PC09-1 has an undercarriage that will expand from
2 ft, 4 in. to 2 ft, 10 in., allowing it to fi t through a standard 36-in.
doorway. The PC18MR-2 will expand from 3 ft, 3 in. to 4 ft, 3 in. and
both machines have retractable end bits on the dozer blade to
match the blade width to the undercarriage width.
Two backfi ll blade options are available on the PC20MR-2,
PC27MR-2, PC40MR-2, PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6, and the PC35MR-2
and PC50MR-2 have three backfi ll blade options, including the
power angle blade, which can angle 25 degrees left or right.
Although all of the Komatsu compact hydraulic excavators have
two travel speeds, the MR-2 series comes equipped with a load
sensing two speed travel. When high speed is engaged, the machine
will automatically shift from high speed travel to low speed travel
when under heavy travel load. Once the machine overcomes the
heavy travel load, it automatically shifts back to high speed travel.
Only the PC09-1 uses a tandem gear pump, while the PC18MR-2 to
the PC78 series machines utilize a combination of variable capacity
piston pumps and gear pumps.
44 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Compact Excavator Specifi cations
The cabs on all Komatsu excavators feature an upper rail sliding
door, sliding front glass and removable bottom glass that can be
stowed away. All cabs allow for easy entry and exceptional visibility.
Cabs are an available option on models ranging from the PC20MR-2
to the PC50MR-2. Air conditioning can be added to the PC27MR-2 to
the PC50MR-2 excavators. Cab and air conditioning come standard
on both the PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6.
Komatsu utilizes environmentally-friendly, Tier II compliant
engines in all of its compact hydraulic excavators. They range in
size from the two-cylinder, 8.7-hp engine used in the PC09 to the
four-cylinder, 54-hp engine used in the PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6.
Komatsu’s engines are highly fuel effi cient and operate at low
decibel levels, say company offi cials.
What’s Unique and Interesting?
The Komatsu hydraulic system is unique in that many of the
hydraulic components are designed and manufactured at the
Komatsu hydraulics factory. This translates to a hydraulic system
that is properly matched to a specifi c excavator for optimum
performance. Komatsu also utilizes its unique HydrauMind hydraulic
system from the PC18MR-2 to the PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6. This is
technology shared with Komatsu’s larger hydraulic excavators.
The HydrauMind hydraulic system is a closed load sensing system
or CLSS. When two or more hydraulic functions are operated
simultaneously, the CLSS ensures that each function works according
to its control input regardless of the load. This gives the operator
precise control, greater responsiveness, reduces operator fatigue
and enhances the overall effi ciency of the hydraulic system.
Komatsu also off ers road liner track shoes on the PC27MR-2,
PC35MR-2, PC40MR-2, PC50MR-2, PC78MR-6 and PC78US-6 models.
The road liner shoes work as an alternative to rubber shoes and
allow the operator to travel over asphalt and concrete. With superior
durability over rubber shoes, the road liner shoes will not de-track
and individual pads can be replaced if necessary.
Insights and Advice
“The versatility of the compact hydraulic excavator is making
them the machine of choice for contractors in many diff erent
types of work,” says David Caldwell, product manager for compact
hydraulic excavators. “A contractor should purchase as large a
machine as possible with consideration given to budget, application
and transportation. It is also important to consider operator comfort,
reliability and resale value. Access to a distributor network that will
provide professional and courteous sales, parts and service to the
owner/operator and the fl eet customer is also essential.”
Contact Info
Komatsu Utility Corp.
641w6 SC Hwy 219
Newberry, SC 29108
Ph: (803) 405.6500
Fax: (803) 405.6539
www.komatsuamerica.com
Models Engine Max. Digging Bucket Operating Weight
Horsepower Depth Max. Reach Breakout Force (Ground Pressure)
PC09-1 8.7 hp 4 ft, 11in. 9 ft, 4 in. 2,370 lbs 1,985 lbs (4 psi)
PC18MR-2 15 hp 7 ft, 1 in. 11 ft, 10 in. 3,570 lbs 4,090 lbs (4.7 psi)
PC20MR-2 20.8 hp 7 ft, 9 in. 13 ft, 5 in. 4,235 lbs 5,060 lbs (4 psi)
PC27MR-2 25.5 hp 8 ft, 8 in. 14 ft, 9 in. 4,920 lbs 6,590 lbs (4.3 psi)
PC35MR-2 29.1 hp 10 ft, 5 in. 16 ft, 5 in. 6,720 lbs 8,245 lbs (5 psi)
PC40 MR-2 39.4 hp 11 ft, 6 in. 18 ft, 3 in. 7,630 lbs 10,560 lbs (4 psi)
PC50MR-2 39.4 hp 12 ft, 6 in. 19 ft, 6 in. 8,775 lbs 11,110 lbs (4.1 psi)
PC78US-6 54 hp 13 ft, 5 in. 23 ft, 11 in. 13,780 lbs 15,850 lbs (4.4 psi)
PC78MR-6 54 hp 13 ft, 8 in. 21 ft, 7 in. 13,780 lbs 18,230 lbs (5.4 psi)
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 45

Few applications have a wider range of available horsepower
options than generator sets. These units can run
anywhere from 1 to 10,000 hp and beyond, but the typical
contractor or hobby farmer, for example, is more likely to
use a generator in the 20- to 150-hp range.
Gen sets have always been a fairly simple application
for engines. Some important application requirements
for other equipment — torque, power bulge and fuel
economy — aren’t as critical when working with gen
sets. What’s most important is that the engine is durable,
reliable, cost-effective, quiet and emissions-compliant.
For most gen set users, high-performance characteristics
are a bonus.
“Today’s Tier 3 engines are much more technologically
advanced than their Tier 1 and Tier 2 counterparts,”
says Matt Arnold, product planner at John Deere Power
Systems, which manufactures generator-drive engines
from 36 to 617 hp. “Some Tier 3 engine models have
technology such as cooled exhaust gas recirculation
[EGR] and variable geometry turbochargers [VGT], but
in the cost-driven gen set market, many customers are
looking for emissions-compliant engines that aren’t as
full-featured.”
Because the EPA took a phased approach to emissions
compliance, the Tier 3 deadline for some horsepower
ranges of engines just came into effect in January 2008.
Here is a quick breakdown of when off-highway engines
common to compact equipment users have to meet EPA
regulations. Engines of:
1. 24 hp and below entered Tier 2 in 2005 and skipped Tier
3, going right to Final Tier 4 in 2008.
2. 25 to 99 hp entered Tier 2 in 2004 — in 2008, the lower
end of this range jumped to Interim Tier 4 and the
higher end of this range had to meet Tier 3.
3. 100 to 174 hp entered Tier 2 in 2003 and Tier 3 in
2007.
For low-horsepower Tier 3 engines, mechanical models
are still available. Some manufacturers offer an Interim
Tier 4 engine in 43 hp for prime power applications and 48
hp for standby power applications. These engines feature
mechanical controls, a two-valve cylinder head, a fi xed
geometry turbocharger and a mechanical rotary pump fuel
system.
Tier 3 engines with electronic controls are available
in mid-range horsepower options. These engines feature
either two-valve or four-valve cylinder heads depending on
model, electronic unit pump or high-pressure common-rail
fuel systems, full-authority electronic controls, a multiple
injection strategy and a fi xed geometry turbocharger.
High-technology options are more common in the
higher horsepower engines than in the type of gen sets
contractors and other users of compact equipment are
likely to own. These engines feature a four-valve cylinder
head, full-authority electronic controls, variable geometry
turbochargers and cooled exhaust gas recirculation.
Common gen set applications for contractors include
temporary jobsite power supply for lighting and tool usage.
Standby gen sets are usually stationary units meant to
serve as backup when the power goes out. Having a backup
power supply is much more crucial for some people than
for others. Animal farmers are one example of gen set users
who rely heavily on reliable standby power.
Todd Honkomp is a production supervisor with Pro Pork
Associates, an Iowa hog management farm. They have a
gen set powered by a John Deere 4.5L diesel engine. “We
need the standby generator in case of a power outage,”
Honkomp says. “An hour without ventilation or heat for
our baby pigs and we could have animal losses.”
Pro Pork Associates is not content to let the generator
sit idle waiting for an emergency outage; the local rural
electric cooperative taps into the generator to fi ll peak
demand.
“They have a switch they can throw that starts up the
generator and sends power out onto their lines,” Honkomp
explains. “In return, we get about a 30 percent discount on
our utility bill every month.”
Having a reliable generator is always important, but it
became especially important to Pro Pork Producers when
its utility company began to count on them. If the utility
hits that switch and the generator’s engine doesn’t start,
Pork Pro Associates loses their discount for that month.
“We quickly saw the importance for having that engine
properly maintained,” Honkomp says. “We sure don’t want
to lose that discount. That’s why I worked with Greenway
[the local John Deere dealership] to keep the engine and
generator ready to run.”
Honkomp’s gen set runs about 350 hours a year and has
never broken down. The engine’s reliability is what’s most
important to Honkomp, as is the case with most gen set
customers.
Jennifer Oredson is a technical writer with Two Rivers Marketing,
Des Moines, Iowa.
High-technology options are more common in the higher
horsepower engines than in the type of gen sets contractors and
other users of compact equipment are likely to own. These engines
feature a four-valve cylinder head, full-authority electronic controls,
variable geometry turbochargers and cooled exhaust gas recirculation.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 47

Yanmar Diesel
TNV and MINIMAX Series Diesels from the Japanese Compact Engine Innovator
Yanmar introduced its new TNV Series of compact diesel engines in 2003. The lineup includes 10 TNV models stepped from 13.8 to
85.6 gross hp. The Yanmar model 3TNV82A exemplifi es one of its most popular engines. It is rated at 24.7 hp at 2,500 rpm as utilized
in the 6,306-lbs (operating weight) Yanmar Vi027 mini excavator.
The 3TNV82A three-cylinder, liquid-cooled diesel engine represents 21st century engineering and is designed to meet Tier 3
and 4 emission requirements, employing only simple mechanical controls. No electronic controls are needed. Improvements to
the combustion and FIE systems result in cleaner combustion through refi ned air intake design. A newly developed inline fuel
injection pump provides the same level of FIE performance as found in Yanmar’s direct-injection engine models. A load timer
adjusts injection timing in accordance with engine load. A fuel damping valve built into the delivery portion of the fuel pump
stabilizes the pressure remaining after injection and prevents any
secondary injection of fuel.
Yanmar has also just introduced the MINIMAX Series diesel engine
solution for lawn and garden equipment, small agricultural machines,
utility vehicles and compact generators. Model number 3TNM68 is the
fi rst in this series released. This 784-cc, three-cylinder Tier 4 compliant
engine employs Yanmar’s proprietary indirect injection technology to
achieve low fuel consumption and emissions levels. The engine block
for this ultra compact and high-performance power plant employs
Yanmar’s latest structural technology to achieve low vibration, noise
and size.
The MINIMAX incorporates Yanmar’s new proprietary MC type injection
pump to achieve precise fuel delivery, reduced fuel consumption and low
emissions. This engine is already compliant with EPA Tier 4 regulation.
Where Can You Find Them?
Yanmar compact engines power machines such as mini excavators,
wheel loaders, skid steers, track loaders and more. TNV Series compact
diesel engines help power machines from over 175 OEMs alone. Popular
compact construction equipment that utilizes Yanmar diesel engines
includes Volvo, Mustang, Komatsu, Hyundai, Gehl, Daewoo, John Deere
and Takeuchi, as well as Bomag and Mikasa.
Perkins Engines
The 400 Series Is a Driving Force in Compact Power Plants
Ranging from 5 to over 2,600 hp, Perkins power plants command
over 5,000 diff erent applications from over 1,000 major equipment
manufacturers. Perkins Engines main compact line of engines is the 400
Series, which continues to be popular with OEMs worldwide.
The 400D Series provides a number of benefi ts to OEMs, including ease
of changeover, greater choice with new model introductions to meet
key power nodes and a whole host of product refi nements to ease OEM
installation and to improve the user’s experience. The three new models
(bringing the total line up to 10) provide OEMs with an even broader
choice of ratings with the launch of the turbo, air-to-air charge cooled
404D-22TA extending the range up to 49 2kW, while the turbocharged
403D-15T and 403D-17 units will off er outputs around the important
30kW node.
Where Can You Find Them?
With demand for compact machinery growing, especially in the
construction market, an increasing number of equipment manufacturers are
adopting the 400 Series as their engine of choice. There are more than 200
diff erent applications in the agriculture, construction and material handling
sectors among others, using the engine to provide power and reliability.
Perkins engines are used to power machines in the construction, industrial,
marine, materials handling, power generation and the Ag industries.
48 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Honda Engines
The World’s Biggest Manufacturer of Outdoor Power Equipment Engines
All Honda Power Equipment models are designed to be environmentally responsible and technologically advanced and are powered
exclusively with Honda four-stroke engine technology for high fuel effi ciency and low emissions. Honda’s four-stroke technology aims to
reduce operator fatigue related to engine noise and vibration. Honda also designs and produces environmentally advanced four-stroke
engines for use by other original equipment manufacturers. These
models are promoted as quieter, more fuel effi cient and easier to
start than comparable two-stroke engines, say company offi cials.
For example, Honda’s mini four-stoke model, the GX25, is one of the
lightest and most compact engines of its kind in the world, making
it the ideal power source for a variety of handheld power equipment
applications. The company’s latest and greatest compact engine is
the iGX 440 15-hp overhead cam (OHC) general purpose engine.
Featuring an integrated electronic control unit (ECU) that delivers
complete drive-by-wire remote control capability and controls key
aspects of engine operation, the iGX is ideally suited for a wide
range of commercial and residential power equipment applications,
including everything from pressure washers to generators. The iGX
engine was designed around four key platforms: intelligence; ease of
use; lower fuel consumption; and noise reduction.
Where Can You Find Them?
Honda engines produces 37 models with more than 400 variations
that supply reliable power for applications from pressure washers
and hobbyist applications to commercial mowers, lawn tractors and
generators. Karcher, Coleman and Black & Decker are just a few OEMs
that rely on Honda engines.
John Deere Power Systems
Off -Highway Diesel Engines that Balance a Compact Size with Heavy-Duty Power
Currently, the John Deere Tier 3 PowerTech M and PowerTech E 4.5L engines are the latest in its less than 99-hp engine lineup. The
PowerTech M 4.5L is turbocharged or air-to-air after cooled and has a power range of 75 to 99 hp. PowerTech M 4.5L engines feature
economy of design, a two-valve cylinder head, a fi xed geometry turbocharger and a mechanical rotary pump fuel system, plus all the
performance of Tier 2.
The PowerTech E 4.5L is turbocharged or air-to-air after cooled and has a power range of 85 to 140 hp. PowerTech E 4.5L engines
feature a two-valve cylinder head and incorporate a high-pressure common-rail fuel system, full-authority electronic controls, a
multiple injection strategy and a fi xed geometry turbocharger, as well
as all the performance of Tier 2 engines and more.
End-user benefi ts for PowerTech E 4 5L engines include such perks as
improved performance over Tier 2 counterparts — up to 30 percent higher
peak torque, more low-speed torque (up to 130 percent of rated speed
torque) and up to a 6 percent power bulge (an increase in power as the
engine goes down in speed to help get through tough spots). These engines
also have transient-response time (the amount of time it takes the
engine to get up to speed) that meets or exceeds Tier 2 counterparts. Fullauthority
electronic controls also enable the engines to off er improved
cold-start performance, precise engine-speed control, torque-curve shaping,
improved fuel economy and more. Electronics increase productivity,
improve fuel economy, lower total installed costs and reduce ownership
costs. Additional benefi ts include their compact size (the same as their
Tier 2 counterparts), reduced noise and a 500-hour oil change.
Where Can You Find Them?
All of the above-mentioned engines fi t in such compact equipment
as compact track loaders, mini excavators, loader backhoes, crawler
dozers, crawler loaders, wheel loaders, skid steers, small tractors, pavers,
trenchers, gen sets, horizontal directional drills, lift trucks, concrete
saws, telehandlers and more, depending on the size of the machine.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 49

Contractors work in mobile offices. Rolling machines,
revolving jobsites and roaming work trucks are where
nomadic construction and landscape professionals spend
most of their days.
Commercial trucks are an especially important workstation
for the migrant business model. Outfitting and then
upfitting your team of rolling workhorses allows your company
and crews to haul supplies, pull equipment and move
employees from job to job with speed, efficiency (and oh
yeah) safety in mind. Chassis cabs (those commercial
trucks that can be equipped with any number of unique
bodies — from dumps to cranes) are typically the ideal
choice for pros on the go.
When it comes to some crews (especially in landscaping),
stake bodies are a popular choice for companies that need
to haul materials, spoils and equipment. While fairly simple
in appearance, stake bodies offer durability and are
versatile enough to grow and change as their master’s needs
change.
A contractor looking to purchase a stake body will likely
run into an array of options to consider, but a few issues
come to the forefront. While it seems simple enough to
throw a fenced-in platform on the back of a chassis cab, the
enlightened buyer will do enough research up front that
the stake body will be a good fit now and a good fit later.
The Latest in Truck News for
The Sizzle
on the Stake
Stake Body Trucks Bring Versatility to the Fleet
Step One: Find a Truck
Unless Joe Buyer has the strength of 10 men, he’s going
to need a truck to carry the stake body, but where to
begin?
“The buyer should start with either the commercial sales
people at the dealer or with the upfitter to determine what
kind of truck they need to carry and the load they need to
carry,” says Chris Borczon, senior chassis engineer with the
Commercial Vehicle Team of Chrysler. “More and more,
we’re seeing trucks that are called on to carry more than
they can handle, so it’s important to have an idea of what
you need to carry before you start looking to buy.”
Once the buyer knows what kind of power and weight
capacities the particular stake body and load requires, he or
she can make a specific decision regarding truck size, class
and load and trailing capacity. While it may be tempting to
get the biggest and best badass truck out there, a Class 3
chassis cab can make a fine stake body.
“The stake body application is perfect for a Class 3 truck,”
says Borczon. “In fact, a Class 3 stake body truck has a better
chance of being a good fit than a Class 3 dump truck.”
Indeed, the weight of the dump rig alone may push it out
of a Class 3’s range.
Nevertheless, if the buyer needs to haul bigger loads
than a Class 3 truck can handle, Class 4 or 5 trucks are
This Dodge Ram 3500 is exquisitely appointed in a smart black stake body. A Class 3 truck, the 3500 is ideally suited to stake body upfitting.
50 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Contractors on the Go By Greg Thompson
nicely suited to life as a stake
body truck. Truck class is determined
by its gross vehicle
weight rating (GVWR). The
classifications are as follows:
Class 3 (GVWR 10,001 lbs to
14,000 lbs), Class 4 (GVWR
14,001 lbs to 16,000 lbs) Class
5 (GVWR 16,001 lbs to 19,500
lbs) and so on up through
Class 9. Needless to say, as class
size increases and more power
is needed to move the truck,
more power is available for
hauling. In the case of
Chrysler’s lineup, the jump
from Class 3 to 4 includes a
pretty nice bump in price to go
with the increased power. But
often higher class trucks are
more powerful than the typical
stake body driver needs, adds
Borczon, and are suited more
for specific applications.
Another factor that impacts
the decision as to class size is
the platform length, the length
at the back end of the truck.
Class 3 trucks typically come
in 60- and 84-in. cab-to-axle
lengths, while Classes 4 and 5
range from 60 to 120 in. A
longer load requires a longer
truck and a longer truck needs
more power, regardless of the
weight of the load. As the
chassis is lengthened, more
power is needed just to drive,
so as mentioned earlier, specific
applications call for larger
sizes. For example, a load of long PVC pipe is fairly light,
so weight-wise a Class 3 truck can handle it, but to keep
the pipe inside the bed, a longer truck is needed, so a
Class 4 or 5 is a better bet. Similarly, spending Class 5
money to haul around a bunch of sawhorses is both
wasteful and impractical.
So what is the difference pricewise? Using Dodge as an
example, the Ram 3500 starts with an MSRP of $22,840,
while the 4500 starts at $34,050 and the 5500 $36,050. As
mentioned above, the bump from the 3500 to the 4500 is
the biggest jump price-wise, primarily due to the upgrade
from a gas engine (5.7-liter HEMI V8) to diesel (6.7-liter
Cummins turbo diesel). While the diesel engine is more
expensive initially, diesel engines are more fuel efficient
and typically have a longer lifespan. In either case, standard
(six-speed) or automatic (five-speed for the V8
engine, six-speed for diesel) transmissions are available.
Chassis cabs are manufactured with PTO options in mind
and are very friendly to upfitters on the back end. Under-
The Cummins Diesel Engine provides the necessary punch to power the big boys. Standard on
Dodge Ram 4500 and 5500 models, the diesel engine is available for the Ram 3500 as an upgrade.
Diesel heads argue that the upgrade will pay for itself over the life of the truck, with better fuel efficiency.
dash wire splicing has been replaced with what is essentially
plug-n-play.
Of course, the cab itself is important to consider. Standard
and quad-cabs are available and can be outfitted with a
seemingly endless array of goodies, from carpeted floorboards
to satellite radio.
Lastly, the whole package can be colored from a nicesized
palette. The majority of the colors offered can be
applied at no additional charge, but even those that are
upcharged won’t run more than a couple hundred bucks.
Step Two: Let the Upfitting Begin
Now that the buyer has chosen a truck, the next step is
to consider the wealth of options available for stake body
upfitting. Among the possibilities to consider are the rack
height, style and material, as well as the floor type and
other options, depending on the outfitter.
Let’s work from the bottom up. Most outfitters offer at
least three different types of flooring: wood, steel or treadplate
steel. Wood is prominent in the market due to its
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 51

lower cost, but it holds up well for most applications and
tends to be lighter than steel floor types. Different wood
types offer varying strengths, but Apitong (from a type of
Philippine tree) is the choice at the high-end of the spectrum.
A moderately dense wood, Apitong offers superior
weather-resistance. In fact, the quality and strength of
Apitong are such that it is sometimes passed off as
Mahogany by furniture makers.
Pricing will vary according to the size of the platform,
but steel typically runs a few hundred dollars more than
wood flooring. Though it lightens the wallet a bit, steel
adds weight to the platform. A steel platform will weigh 10
to 12 percent more than a wood platform of the same size.
Treadplate steel is typically in the neighborhood of 8 to 10
percent heavier than its wood counterpart. Whether
outfitted with smooth or treadplate steel, the paint or
coating is important for the longevity of the platform.
“Powder coating is the way to go,” says Bill Pick, inside
sales manager for Wisconsin-based Monroe Truck Equipment.
“We’ve started powder coating with snow plows and it
didn’t take us long to see that it’s the best way to guarantee
longer life for steel.” Rugby Mfg. powder coats their racks
and platforms as well. According to Rugby’s literature, salt
spray tests show that powder coating provides better
corrosion protection than prime paint finish.
But powder coating isn’t the only option out there.
Reading Platform Bodies finishes its platforms with a multistage
prime coat beneath a two-component, high-gloss
black urethane paint. Reading covers the understructure
with a tough oil-based undercoat, which meets all
environmental regulations while offering top-notch
protection.
A new platform option available from Monroe Truck
Equipment forgoes coating the flooring altogether. Their
Poly Work-a-Hauler uses a 3/4-in. co-polymer composite
for the flooring with a skid-resistant smooth white finish
that is UV resistant. The full-floating floor secured by
Monroe’s Four-Corner Capture eliminates metal fasteners
and permits thermal expansion/contraction of the floor
material.
Another difference among outfitters is the manner by
which the stakes and racks are held in place. While lining
the stake pockets along the outer portion of the bed is most
common to maximize the available bed area, there are a few
differences in how the stakes are reinforced. For example,
Reading features deep, reinforced stake pockets, which both
keep the stakes in place and allow them to take more force
from the load in the truck. Just as considering the type of
hauling that needs to be done will affect the size and power
of truck needed, the weight of the load will affect how much
reinforcement the stake pocket will need.
Rack height is fairly standard, with most upfitters offering
two or three options. Ohio-based Stahl offers stake rack
sides in 30- and 40-in. heights, while Reading outfits their
stake bodies with 42-in. racks (30 in. on standard-duty
platforms). Monroe Truck Equipment racks are typically 40
in., with 42-in. racks available depending on the make of
chassis cab being upfitted.
Monroe Truck Equipment offers a new platform option in the Poly Work-a-Hauler. The co-polymer flooring is lighter than wood or steel, but plenty tough.
52 Compact Compact Equipment Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

Racks or sides come in a few different styles. Most often,
slats are fixed horizontally across the stakes, similar to a split
rail fence. Depending on the rack height, two or three slats
are used. Other commonalities include solid or landscape
sides, which are solid “walls” that allow loose loads to be
carried without losing materials through the gaps. Solid
sides are heavier than rack sides, which needs to be
considered with the overall weight of the stake body.
Reading has addressed the weight concern with its Redi-
Racks, that are steel grates — solid enough to hold a loose
load, but considerably lighter than solid sides.
With the floor, stake pockets, stakes and sides spoken for,
the stake body is more or less complete. Or is it? Additional
options are where upfitters really separate from one another.
Many upfitters offer similar types of add-ons, but each tends
to have a unique twist.
Rugby offers conversion kits to allow its stake racks to
swing out. Also, its powder-coated side and rear racks are
available in any combination of 4-, 5- or 6-ft sections, which
greatly increases the versatility for sizing. Stahl can mount a
toolbox under the platform as well as tie-down hooks and
rings. Solid sided bodies have rear swing-out barn doors for
easy access.
Monroe’s rubber-mounted clearance lights and wiring
harness protected by a steel conduit come standard, as do
swing out sides and tie rails. Reading has platform rails that
include a wiring harness for clearance and marker and
identification lights. On landscape sides, they offer rear
swing-out doors as well as a curbside access door. Tailgates
are four-way, double-hinged. Other options include heavyduty,
tie-down rings, bumpers and “possum belly”
compartments. Whatever the buyer might want to add to
his or her stake body truck, the right upfitter can probably
make it happen.
Fair enough. Who is the right upfitter? “As a company,
Chrysler recommends members of the National Truck
Equipment Association [NTEA] for upfitting work,” says
Borczon. One reason for this recommendation is that most
members of the NTEA are certified and have a solid working
knowledge of the trucks. Also, since membership in an
organization such as NTEA implies and carries with it
accountability, the buyer (as well as the truck manufacturer)
can be assured that the work will be done properly and to
the highest standards
If the buyer needs to narrow that list further, perhaps an
obvious concern, price should be considered. Pricing should
be consistent throughout the market, in the $3,500 range
for a straightforward stake body. So the buyer should
ultimately gauge the approach of the upfitter.
Pick advises, “If the upfitter doesn’t ask a lot of questions,
I’d be concerned.” The upfitter should be able to help the
buyer at every stage of the decision process, from choosing
a chassis cab to selecting options, by asking the right
questions to determine how the stake body will be used.
“Otherwise,” he adds, “they might just try to sell you
something they have on the lot instead of the right solution
for you.”
Buyers should research as much as possible and order their
truck early enough that it’s ready when they need it. A typical
stake body takes one to two weeks to install. “It depends on the
season, on inventory,” says Pick. “If we had to punch one out
in three days, we could. Best bet is if you want it for the spring,
you better be thinking about it before the snow melts.”
Greg Thompson is contributing editor of Compact Equipment.
An (In)Famous Stake Body
On November 3, 1949, a Ford dealer near Fenway Park in
Boston reported a green 1949 stake body truck stolen. The subsequent
investigation turned up nothing, but the truck and its
theft would prove important soon enough.
On January 17, 1950, several armed men entered the Brink’s
Building in Boston wearing rubber masks (at least one wore a
Captain Marvel mask). When they left 25 minutes later, they
dragged bags containing $1.2 million in cash and $1.5 million in
checks, money orders and other securities. They disappeared
into the night. The “crime of the century” had gone off without
a hitch.
Faced with hundreds of dead leads, the FBI had a difficult time
finding anything substantial in the Brink’s robbery case. When the
call went out for tips, every convict looking for a deal had a new line
on a wild goose chase to offer. Helpful civilians called in suspicious
activity around the country, but nothing panned out. Indeed, the
robbers had planned the heist for two years prior and had left little
room for error.
Eventually, as more and more statements were collected from
people in the neighborhood where the Brink’s Building was
located, one detail came up again and again. A 1949 green Ford
stake body truck with a canvas top had been parked near the
Prince Street door at the time of the robbery. Figuring that the
number of men involved in the robbery (witnesses in the building
placed the number at five) and the amount of loot they
made off with, authorities figured this had to be the getaway
vehicle.
On March 4, 1950, pieces of an identical truck were found at a
dump in Stoughton, Mass. The truck had been cut up with an
acetylene torch and individual pieces smashed with a sledge
hammer. Still, it was identifiable as a green Ford stake body.
Though the damage was too extensive to retrieve any physical
evidence, the truck’s location proved a valuable break in the
case. In fact, two of the men eventually arrested for the crime
lived in the Stoughton area and the discovery of the truck
attached significant suspicion to them.
The lesson here? While a stake body is ideal for hauling, it’s
best to make sure what you’re hauling is legal. These hardy
trucks prove too darn durable to make disappear when the
criminal activity is done.
It’s not a ‘49, but this photo of a 1948 F-Series truck demonstrates
how the Brink’s robbers took avantage of the crew-
hauling ability that the ‘49 stake body offered.
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 53

Circle 11 on reader service card
compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 55
CE EQUIPMENT CONNECTION

CE EQUIPMENT CONNECTION
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56 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

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compactequip.com January 2008 Compact Equipment 57
CE EQUIPMENT CONNECTION

CE E-Biz
Hobart Brothers Keeps
You Safe and Informed
Hobart Brothers Co. of Troy, Ohio, a leading manufacturer
of welding fi ller metals marketed under the brand names
Hobart, Tri-Mark, McKay and Corex, recently added a Health
and Safety section to its Web site. With the addition, Hobart
Brothers offers a quick, easy way to stay current on health and
safety issues related to the welding industry and fi ller metal
usage. An opt-in e-mail notifi cation system alerts subscribers
when updates have been posted to the Health and Safety
section of the company’s Web site, www.Hobartbrothers.com.
Updates include the availability of new product Material
Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), recent safety bulletins from
OSHA and Hobart Brothers and new safety guides provided
by the American Welding Society (AWS). Other pertinent
safety information will be posted as it becomes available.
“These notifi cations will allow us to get important safety
information to our customers almost instantaneously,”
says Kris Buck, industrial hygiene/safety manager, Hobart
Brothers. “They will not have to wait for updates or search
for them. That makes everyone safer.”
To receive notice of these updates, simply visit
Hobartbrothers.com/safetyemail, enter your name and e-mail
address. You will automatically receive an e-mail when
Hobart Brothers has added a new resource to its Web site.
CE Advertisers Index
Company ...................................................................................................Page ........................ RS
Advanced Metalworking Co. (Lift-A-Load) ...................................... 57 ............................ 15
Arnco............................................................................................................. 41 ............................ 17
Bobcat ............................................................................................................5 .............................. 3
Caterpillar ...........................................................................................Back Cover .................... 4
CE Attachments ........................................................................................ 56 ............................ 12
Danuser ........................................................................................................ 57 ............................ 13
Ditch Witch ...................................................................................................3 .............................. 2
DRB America .............................................................................................. 27 ............................. 8
Web Sightings
New Site Makes Finding Equipment Easier
A new Ingersoll Rand Web site went live recently. The userfriendly
site off ers links to product information on all that IR
off ers, from compressors
and light
compaction equipment
to generators,
lighting and more.
Visitors can navigate
from category to
category and back
to the homepage no
matter where they
are on the site. So,
they don’t need to leave a trail of virtual bread crumbs to fi nd
their way back out of the construction tools listing before checking
out truck-mounted equipment. Check it out next time you’re
surfi ng for equipment.
www.irutilityequipment.com
Get Kids Started Early with Tonka
Maybe you shouldn’t take your tike to the jobsite to let
them drive your loader, and your die-cast mini excavator replica
looks too cool on
your mantle to hand
over to the little one.
How can you scratch
your child’s construction
equipment itch?
Visit Tonka’s Web site
for printable coloring
pages, matching
games and a few video
games. Heck, the
games even encourage good habits by requiring yard or room
cleanup with a Tonka dump truck.
www.hasbro.com/tonka
Company ...................................................................................................Page ........................ RS
Grouser Products ........................................................................................9 .............................. 5
JLG Industries ...............................................................................................2 .............................. 1
Loegering Manufacturing ..................................................................... 31 ............................. 9
Lowe Manufacturing ............................................................................... 59 ............................. 6
McLaren Industries .................................................................................. 55 ............................ 11
Ramrod/Leon’s Manufacturing............................................................ 57 ............................ 14
Soucy-Group .............................................................................................. 43 ............................ 10
Yanmar Industrial Engines .................................................................... 23 ............................. 7
58 Compact Equipment January 2008 compactequip.com

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