Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/699963
July 2016 | EquipmentWorld.com 16 marketplace | continued Tires take on harsh construction environments The new Michelin X Works Z all-position tire is designed to stand up to harsh construction conditions with a 50-percent wider protector ply and a thick layer of cushion gum that increase tire longevity. V-channels and groove bottom protectors guard against stone retention and stone drilling. Thick sidewalls defend against impacts and a double treatment of TW6 ozone resistor helps prevent cracking. The tire can be used in mixed on-off road applications and is available now in 11R22.5, 12R22.5 and 11R24.5 sizes in load range H and a 315/80R22.5 size in load range L. A 12R24.5 size in load range H will launch at a later date. Larger-frame performance features in smaller package John Deere has introduced the latest machine in its mid-frame E-Series skid-steer and compact track loader lineup. The 324E skid steer is powered by a 74-horsepower engine and, according to Deere, packs all of the performance of its larger-framed siblings into a more agile design. The new loader boasts upgraded controls, better boom performance, boom-integrated auxiliary lines and an improved cab. Deere offers ISO, H-pattern and foot/joystick electrohydraulic (EH) controls on the 324E. An available option on the machine gives the operator the ability to switch between all three control patterns with the push of a button. The machine's vertical-lift boom offers 10 feet, 6 inches of reach, while integrated auxiliary lines, curved front glass, a large top window and low side windows improve the operator's sight lines to the surrounding jobsite. The 324E is compatible with more than 100 Deere Worksite Pro attachments. Backreamers designed for specialized soil conditions Ditch Witch has introduced a new lineup of backreamers designed for specialized soil conditions and installations. The new models include the Sandhog HD, Swab and EZ back- reamers, and are designed for tasks such as enabling horizontal directional drilling crews to pre-clean a path or quickly connect to a rig. Available in 2 3/4-inch shaft size with 2.0 IF threads, and 3 1/4-inch shaft with 2 3/8 API threads, and ranging in diameter from 8 to 18 inches, the Sandhog HD (pictured) is designed for sandy and soft soils. The Swab, available in a 3 1/4-inch shaft with a 2.77 male thread size, and for a diameter of 5 1/2-inch- es, is specifically designed for rocky and hard soils and enables direct pullback on the Ditch Witch JT30 All Terrain HDD. The EZ backreamer, designed for smaller-diameter installations in soft to medium-hard conditions, is available in a 3 1/4-inch shaft size with an EZ2 and EZ3 connection, ranging in diameter from 6 to 8 inches.