Manitou Group reveals new compact track loader models

 Manitou, Mustang and Gehl wasted no time unveiling the many models they have to offer this year at an “Unlock the Future” event.

Focusing on serving niche markets, rental markets and the heavy construction market, they introduced new skid loaders, compact track loaders, telescopic articulated loaders and telescopic handlers.

“For the past multiple years, most all of our competitors, as well as with ourselves, had to try to get in conformance with the EPA regulations – with the engine compliance – and a lot of our engineering resources have been totally tied up in that side of the business,” said Eric Burkhammer, vice president of sales and marketing for the North American Manitou Group. “Now, we’re finally reasserting ourselves as a main player.”

Since the switch to Tier 4 Final engines, there has been a shift in the marketplace, with the popularity of compact track loaders (CTLs) on the rise.

Here’s a look at the new CTLs models the Manitou Group now offers in response to that demand.

On the radial lift model, the Gehl RT165 and Mustang 1650RT feature a rated operating capacity of 1,650 pounds. Powered by a Tier 4 Yanmar engine, these CTLs also have high-flow auxiliary hydraulics available with 28.5 gpm. The adapted chassis is designed to handle track loader applications and loads.

The machines have a tilt breakout force of 4,230 pounds and a lift breakout force of 5,060 pounds. Weighing in at 8,020 pounds, the RT165 and 1650RT allow for transport options and low ground pressures for high flotation.

There are choices galore with multiple track widths and tread patterns as well as control choices from pilot joystick to T-bar to hand/foot to pilot dual-hand.

Maintenance has been simplified with a swing-out door that allows full access to filters and other components.

For those who prefer a vertical lift model, Gehl’s VT320 and Mustang’s 3200 boast of new vertical lift path lift arms, which have a low-profile rear brace for similar stiffness levels of radial arms.

Running on a 114-horsepower Deutz Tier 4 engine, these machines can be used for a number of tasks with a lift breakout force of 7,491 pounds and a tilt breakout force of 9,901 pounds.

The VT320 and 3200VT come standard with seat-mounted pilot joystick controls and duel batteries for extra cranking power in cold weather conditions.

The vertical lift compact track loaders also include time-saving features such as the IdealTrax Automatic Track Tensioning System and enhanced control valve spool to reduce loaded dump cycle time.