Solutions Software Custom-Design Vans Weather Guard Vehicle Solutions software is the first tool of its type in the contractor-vehicle outfitting industry, the manufacturer says. It allows users to custom-design work vans with shelving, cabinets, racks and accessories. The 3-D software produces simple-to-use interactive graphics to help the user visualize the custom design prior to purchase. Once the van design is finalized, the design drawing and corresponding list of materials can be printed and saved. A Web-based version is also available. Knaack Manufacturing Co.; 800/456-7865; www.knaack.com Trenching and Shoring Safety Program This video-based training program focuses on OSHA-regulated safety measures and
Trash Pumps Lifting Loop for Easy Transportation Manufacturer introduces its new QP Series trash pumps. The QP-2T and QP-3T engine-drive trash pumps are 2 and 3-in. units designed for contractors who need to move water quickly and efficiently. There are eight models in the QP Series, with maximum flows up to 396 gallons per minute. The QP trash pumps are housed in a smaller but stronger aluminum die-cast pump casing for faster priming at higher speeds. The 1-in. pipe frame also includes a lifting loop for simple transportation to, from and around the job site. MultiquipInc.; 800/421-1244; www.multiquip.com Roof Rail
Evolution. Benjamin Holt (left) laid trackwork for Cat and great-grandson Peter. Judging by the heavy technological changes in Caterpillar’s new T-Series tractors, the next century of tracks is shifting from a slow crawl into high gear. Caterpillar’s newest earthmoving machines, unveiled late last month and scheduled to arrive next spring, are designed to be more efficient, productive and serviceable than before. Various updated features include cleaner-burning engines, onboard diagnostic tools, electrohydraulic controls, GPS earthmoving technology and longer oil-change intervals that keep machines working hard in the field rather than waiting for service. The new dozers bear little resemblance to their
Multi-Tool Interchangeable Jaw Sets Manufacturer is now offering 11 sizes of the MT Series Multi-Tool attachment for all types of demolition, scrap processing, concrete foundation removal, concrete processing and many other applications. Models range from the MT 5 to the MT 180 and will accommodate any make and model carrier of 5,000 lb and up. The Multi-Tool features dual-moving jaws and continuous 360� rotation. It comes in many configurations due to the modular design’s acceptance of pin-on, interchangeable jaw sets. Allied-Gator Inc.; 330/744-0808; www.alliedgator.com Excavator Works Within Tight Spaces Manufacturer introduces the Link-Belt 80 Spin Ace minimum swing radius excavator.
Self-Retracting Device Leading Edge Fall Protection This new self-retracting lifeline, called Leading Edge SRL, is designed specifically to protect personnel when working at or near leading edges during construction activities such as decking and precast concrete work. The fall protection device features 55 ft of oversized 7/32-in. dia cable that is 35% stronger than cable lifelines on standard SRL’s, according to the manufacturer. It also contains a built-in external energy absorber to help reduce arresting forces on the worker and minimize damage to the cable from edge wear and abrasion. DBI/SALA & Protecta; 800/328-6146; www.dbisala.com Safety Gate Fits on Alternating
Portable Power Winch Plug in and Use This all-in-one portable winch and carrier combination is ready to plug in and use right out of the box. The new Warn Works 3200AC-R is the first member of the company’s line to be preconfigured for quick and easy use. It comes attached to a carrier that features an integrated mounting plate, roller fairlead, carry handle and built-in dock to hold the hand-held remote. The tool’s pull capacity is 3,200 lb. It runs off a standard wall socket and can be used inside or outside. Warn Industries Inc.; 503/711-1200; www.warn.com Rubber Track Increases
Deere & Co. is recalling 14,746 Gator-brand work utility vehicles sold in the U.S. over the last year. The Moline, Ill.-based manufacturer says the units have faulty brakes and could cause accidents. The buggies are common construction vehicles, shuttling workers and materials across jobsites. The Gator 4x2 and 4x4 is included in the recall, but not the 6x4 (shown). (Photo courtesy of Deere & Co.) The affected models fall into Deere's high-performance or "HPX" category of Gator buggies. They were sold in 4x2 and 4x4 drive configurations between December 2003 and October 2004, with list prices ranging from $8,000 to
Tool Organizers Limitless Storage Options Manufacturer introduces a new line of tool accessories that include a 55-pocket tool organizer and a 50-pocket bucketless tool organizer. Both feature pockets of assorted shapes and sizes positioned inside and out that provide limitless storage options. The tool organizers have bar-tacked stress points to prevent tearing and extend the life of the accessory. They also include an internal drill holster that securely holds up to an 18 V cordless hammer-drill or impact wrench. The bucket tool organizer fits standard 3.5 or 5-gallon buckets. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp.; 800/729-3878; www.milwaukeetool.com Fire Barrier/Water Tight Seal All-In-One
Aerial Work Platforms Large Roll-Out Expansion Mid-size, four-wheel-drive, rough-terrain aerial work platforms are available in four models, the 7127, 7135, 8243 and 8850. The units have a working height up to 56 ft and capacities up to 1,500 lb. With gradeability to 30% and large 64-in. x 116.5-in. roll-out platforms, the machines provide extensive job site work support. All models are equipped with a simple and safe proportional joystick control designed to prevent inadvertent operation. Standard features include rear-loading gate, tilt alarm with drive/lift cut-off and 110-volt GFI AC outlet. Skyjack Inc.; 800/265-2738; www.skyjackinc.com Telehandler For Masonry Construction The
Rubber Tracks More Traction and Flotation Over-the-tire rubber tracks are now available for the manufacturer’s 200 and 300 Series skid steers. This system is suitable for soft and muddy ground conditions where a wheeled skid steer might bog down. The tracks enhance traction and flotation without causing the surface damage of steel tracks, allowing the operator to work on turf, asphalt and concrete. The rubber tracks can be mounted over 10 and 12-in. pneumatic tires, including standard, extra-wall and hauler models. John Deere; 913/901-2192; www.deere.com Direct-Fire Melter Trailer Mounted This 115-gallon direct-fire melter, a new addition to the HeatWave Series,
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