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Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/351389
www.landscapeirrigation.com August 2014 Landscape and Irrigation 17 Vermeer In early 2014, Vermeer launched the S800TX compact utility loader with a gas engine, and the SC362 stump cutter. Faced with meeting Tier 4 Final compliance on the S800TX, we had an important decision to make. We could repower the S800TX with a Tier 4 Final diesel engine and maintain a high horsepower die- sel offering, but the additional cost of the engine would have resulted in an overall increase for this model that the market likely wouldn't have had an easy time swallowing. Another option was a <25-hp. diesel engine in the S800TX, but that would have meant compromis- ing on torque and horsepower. At the end of the day, we made the decision to go with the 40-hp. WG1605 Kubota gas engine. We feel we really got the best of both worlds by this decision; we were able to keep cost down while offer- ing an engine with higher horsepower and a higher torque curve than before. The WG1505 is as close to a diesel engine as you can come while still burning gas. The block is the same as its Kubota diesel counterpart, as are many of the other engine components. We expect great durability and longevity out of this engine. We are pleased that we are able to maintain the ability to offer the model with the highest horsepower, torque and lifting capability in its class — and we think our customers will be pleased, as well. The SC362 stump cutter followed last year's release of the SC292. We were hearing from customers that Vermeer needed to build a productive machine at a value price. What guys are getting paid to cut stumps hasn't changed a whole lot over the years, so value versus performance is a real factor in deciding which stump cutter to buy. The SC362 was a direct result of listening to the market. Kohler For the 2014 model year, Kohler introduced its new vertical-shaft, V-twin Confidant engines, in four models ranging from 19 to 25 hp. to meet the needs of commercial equipment users and property owners seeking high-performance equipment. Both recoil- and electric- start options are available for a variety of applications, including wide- area walk-behind and stand-on mowers, ZTRs, and high-end garden tractors. We have received positive feedback on the Confidant, with customers reporting ease of starting and interest in repowering exist- ing mowers with the new engine. Kohler offers special pricing on the engine and muffler kit for repowers, and a "Repower Installation Guide" makes repowering used equipment easy for the dealer and contains everything needed, including engine and muffler dimensions, PTO crank size, and wiring harness diagrams. Caterpillar The Cat skid-steer, multi terrain and compact track loader line undertook a redesign that was introduced in late 2013. With the introduction of the 16 D series models, Cat has once again deliv- ered customer-focused improvements in visibility, comfort, security and control. The Cat D series features improved sight lines to the work tool, to the sides of the machine and tracks/tires via a new loader arm design. Visibility, especially to the rear of the machine, is further enhanced by an industry-first, integrated rearview camera. The redesigned cab provides a premium operator environment via a one-piece, modular design for maximum sealing and pressurization. An ergonomic operator's station layout is enhanced by the available high-back, heated, air-ride seat with seat-mounted joystick controls. A standard security system provides additional protection from unwanted operation and theft. Additional control features have been incorporated into the new, optional 5-inch LCD in-cabin monitor that provides the operator the capability to customize up to 11 different parameters. The customized preferences are retained by individual operator codes (up to 50), which also function as security/user codes. These parameters allow the operator to fine-tune the machine opera- tion and performance in addition to choosing a preferred language or gauge layout style. LI