Equipment World Digital Magazine
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/953148
March 2018 | EquipmentWorld.com 22 machine matters | continued Recommended bucket sizes for the 70-horsepower John Deere 324K are 1.4 to 2 cubic yards. Maximum flow is 24 gallons per minute, and maximum pressure is 2,750 pounds per square inch. Breakout force is 12,364 pounds, and operating weight is 14,087 pounds. The 407 and 409 models from JCB feature driveline components from such notable names as Dana and Bosch and are powered by JCB Diesel by Kohler engines – 64 horsepower for the 407 and 74-horse- power for the 409. LiveLink telematics are standard as is a three-year, 3,000-hour full-machine warranty. AWS machines offer maximum maneuverability and stability. JCB compact wheel loaders rely entirely on articulation. Will Turner, product manager at JCB, says using a fixed rear axle reduces complexity, making service and repair easier. The design also leaves room for a larger cab and lowers the machine's center of gravity. The John Deere 244K-II and 324K feature Articulation Plus, where the articulation joint provides 30 degrees of move- ment and the rear wheels allow another 10 degrees. "This retains excellent maneuverability and a tighter turning radius while providing a higher percentage of lift capacity at full turn," says Drew Miller, product marketing manager, compact wheel loaders, John Deere. The rear is coordinated steering with no crab steering function. The rear wheels are mechani- cally coupled to the articulation joint, and rear-wheel steering is proportional to articulation joint movement. Gehl 650 and 750 and Mustang 608 and 708 have 45 degrees of articulation and 10 degrees of chassis oscillation. "One critical safety concern is that operators must remember the tipping weight is lower at full turn than straight," says Moore, "perhaps as much as 35 percent lower." Comrie says that while compact wheel loaders may not have the tight turning capabilities of skid steer and compact track loaders, the characteristics of their maneuverability give them an advantage in loading and placing. Expanding attachments One way compact wheel loaders are intruding into the market space occupied by skid steer and compact track loaders is their expanding use of attachments. To facilitate