High wheeled loading performance

High specification wheeled loaders are now available from an array of firms, Mike Woof reports

In the competitive market for wheeled loaders, 178 Caterpillar, 2300 Komatsu and 359 Volvo CE are strong worldwide players with sales figures that many rivals would like to emulate. Their quality products also demand good resale values due to a reputation for longevity, yet other firms are also filling the gap in terms of quality and performance. An array of manufacturers are introducing improved machines to the European market that meet the tough emission and noise regulations, as well as being designed to a high specification, delivering good safety standards and low running costs.

South African firm Bell is broadening its product range in key markets in Europe with the introduction of its E-Series wheeled loaders. There are seven models in the line-up, from the L1204E with its 1.9m³ standard bucket up to the L2706E with its 4.6m³ standard bucket and spanning the weight classes from 11.2-26.2tonnes. All the machines are available with Z-bar linkages and high reach lift arms while the four smaller models also have the option of parallel linkages and quick attachment systems to suit an array of utility/multi-function applications.

Although 1240 Bell has made its own wheeled loaders and sold these in its home market of South Africa and some other neighbouring countries, these machines are actually built in the US by 257 John Deere. The move is a strategic one, both for John Deere, which owns some 30% of the South African firm, and for Bell. This development means that John Deere will renew its presence in the European construction equipment market, which it withdrew from in the 1980s and for Bell it allows an expansion of its product range that is complimentary to its proven ADT line-up.

The machines themselves are said to be high-specification models with features such as ride control, reverse radar systems, reversing cameras (a UK market requirement), on-board load weighing, automatic reversing fan and a keyless start with security access system. The reversing fan is an important feature as this helps blow out any accumulated dust from inside the engine housing, while the cooling system has also been designed to minimise airborne dust and help reduce associated maintenance needs. A sophisticated electronic system is another high specification feature and while a 4,000 hour hydraulic filter life also helps reduce maintenance needs. Other high specification features for the operator include a heated, air-suspended seat, an LCD screen and air-conditioning as standard.

All seven machines are driven by John Deere diesels that meet the Stage IIIA/Tier3 noise and exhaust emission regulations. The L1204E weighs 11.2tonnes, has a 4.5litre diesel that delivers 95kW, offers a full turn tipping load of 7.95tonnes and features a 1.9m³ bucket as standard. The L1506E, L1706E, L1806E, L2106E, L2606E and L2706E have engines rated at 126, 147, 173, 197, 227 and 248kW, with standard bucket capacities of 2.3, 2.7, 3.3, 3.6, 4 and 4.6m3 and operating weights of 13.2, 15.4, 18.2, 19.1, 24.2 and 26.2tonnes respectively.

Italian company Palazzani says its improved loaders offer increased performance over previous models. There are three models in the new wheeled loader line, the PL185, PL195 and PL1105 and these are designed for versatility and performance. Depending on specification, the PL185 weighs from 7.9-8.3tonnes and is offered with buckets from 1.2-1.5m³, while it is driven by a 76.7kW diesel and features a four speed drivetrain offering a maximum speed of 39km/h. The PL195 has a 99.4kW diesel that powers through a four speed drivetrain to offer a top speed of 36km/h, while it weighs from 8.45-8.85tonnes depending on specification and is offered with buckets of 1.6-1.8m³ capacity. The largest of the three is the PL1105, which has buckets of 1.9-2.1m3 capacity, weighs from 10.6-11tonnes, is driven bya 109.4kW diesel and has a three speed transmission allowing top travel speeds of 40km/h. Dump heights of 3.55, 3.65 and 3.75m are claimed for the PL185, PL195 and PL1105 models respectively.


Venieri says its latest wheeled loaders combine increased performance with low running costs and ease of operation. The key feature of these new models is the revised cab layout, which provides the operator with greater room and improved visibility. Power comes from Tier 3/Stage IIIA emissions compliant 299 Perkins diesels for the three loaders, which have bucket capacities from 1.7-2.7m3 and are offered with either z-bar linkages or parallel linkage systems. Performance of the z-bar and parallel linkage versions is similar although the latter do offer slightly longer arms and greater reach. Dana Spicer axles and Rexroth hydraulics are used while the hydrostatic drives are said to offer high working precision.

Compact in design with a steeply sloping engine cover and with the exhaust pipe routed up the side of the cab, these machines offer exceptionally good rearward visibility. An average-sized adult standing immediately beside the rear bumper can be seen easily by the operator and, according to Giovanni Rava of the firm's export sales department, this means there is no need for the extra large mirrors fitted to some competing loaders. He said, "The machines are more compact, are easy to manoeuvre and are safer because of the visibility." He said that with this range the company has developed loaders that offer good working capacity, multi-functionality, visibility, safety and stability combined with low maintenance costs. "We always focus on balance and stability," Rava said.

Drive is hydrostatic and he explained that this feature has helped maximise stability and ensure the compact layout. The engines are mounted transversely and the loaders offer a low centre of gravity, while all maintenance access is from ground level and there is no need to crawl underneath these machines to change filters or grease moving parts, helping reduce maintenance times. Servicing in remote locations or developing countries is also possible as the loaders do not feature a great deal of electronic systems that have to be inspected using a laptop computer, while features such as twin steering cylinders ensure durability.

Cab comfort is good due to the extra legroom and air-conditioning is fitted as standard, rather than as an optional extra. A special air-conditioning kit is available for use in hot countries such as those in North Africa or the Middle East and he said that this has been tested at temperatures of up to 54ºC, while it can also cope with high humidity levels.

Volvo Construction Equipment is upgrading two of its mid-sized wheel loaders and says that these will offer higher productivity and lower running costs. The Volvo L45F and L50F offer high performance and have features such as the firm's patented Torque Parallel (TP) loader linkage for versatility. This novel linkage system means that the L45F and L50F provide smooth, parallel lift, high tilt-back torque and good lifting power throughout the lift range, while a wide rollback angle ensures material retention in the bucket. The Volvo L45F and L50F are also offered with an optional Z-bar model attachment bracket system to further boost versatility.

An efficient and powerful load-sensing hydraulic system is fitted, with separate pumps delivering high power. The Volvo L45F and L50F are driven by 4.8litre, Volvo D5 engines that meet the Tier 3/Stage IIIA noise and exhaust emissions requirements and deliver high torque at low rpm. In addition, the engine in the Volvo L50F also features an air-to-air intercooler. Differential locks are fitted to the front and rear axles with 100% lock and allow traction even in slippery running conditions.

Good operator comfort is claimed, with the cabs featuring viscous mounts to minimise vibration, an effective filtration system and ergonomic controls as well as good all round visibility. The L45F weighs in a 8.65tonnes, is powered by a 73kW diesel and offers a straight tipping load of 5.8tonnes. The more powerful L50F weighs in at 9.43tonnes, is powered by an 85kW diesel and has a straight line tipping load of 6.9tonnes.