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By Jenny Lescohier
Editor
Skid steers are a staple in many rental fleets and promise to be even more vital when construction activity rebounds from the current economic slowdown. To help you get ready for when demand increases, we asked a few leading skid steer manufacturers what's new with these small machines that make a big impact.
Q: Does your company have any new models/product developments with its line of skid steers?
A: (Mike Fitzgerald, Bobcat) Bobcat Company recently introduced its new M-Series line of skid-steer loaders. The first two models - S630 and S650 - are new models to the Bobcat line and fill the gap between the existing S205 and S220 models.
The S630 has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of 2,180 pounds and an operating weight of 7,707 pounds. The S650 has a ROC of 2,690 pounds and an operating weight of 8,327 pounds.
Some of the features of the M-Series loaders are:
(Kelly Moore - Gehl Co.) Gehl has enhanced its compact product line since its beginning with skid loaders over 40 years ago. In 2009 we introduced two all-new skid steer loaders. On the small end is the 1640E subcompact model. It has a narrow footprint - only 3 feet wide, or 42 in. with high-flotation tires. This machine is great for work in tight spaces. The 1640E features a T-bar, hand-only control handles for complete drive and lift functions control and a Universal Quick-Attach with auxiliary hydraulics, so it has the capability to use a variety of small attachments.