Construction Equipment Guide
470 Maryland Drive
Fort Washington, PA 19034
800-523-2200
Tue October 03, 2006 - National Edition
The Charles Machine Works Inc. (CMW), manufacturer of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment, has expanded its compact utility equipment offering with its new XT1600 excavator-tool carrier.
The new Ditch Witch XT1600 excavator-tool carrier is designed to perform the work of three machines: a backhoe loader, mini-excavator and compact track loader.
“The combined power, productivity and versatility of the XT1600 make this an exceptionally efficient and cost-effective machine,” said Mike Lumbers, CMW senior compact utility product manager.
“When you take into account the monthly maintenance, fuel, labor and transport expense of three machines versus one XT1600, it’s easy to see how this remarkable new unit can save contractors a considerable amount of time and money.”
Equipped with a 59-hp (44 kW) diesel engine, the XT1600 is a ride-on unit that features a 260-degree excavator sweep that enables the operator to dig in multiple positions in confined places, including offset digging along walls, fences and buildings.
“The XT1600 has a relatively small footprint, which is an advantage in terms of maneuvering around tight job sites and also in terms of transport,” said Lumbers. “At only 9,500 pounds, it allows a variety of trailer and towing options.”
At the site, operators can expect a smooth ride from the XT1600, due to an equalizer track system with pivoting rollers that keep more track on the surface.
“Greater comfort for the operator means less fatigue,” said Lumbers. “And more track on the ground gives the machine greater stability, for easier loading and unloading.”
Stabilizers on the excavator end give the unit additional stability when excavating in tough soils. Operator comfort is further enhanced by the XT1600’s operator’s station, which provides increased visibility for a machine its size.
The new XT1600 is capable of running a variety of compact utility attachments, including most full-size skid steer attachments. With 30 net hp (22 kW) to the attachment, the XT1600 can perform a range of general construction, utility installation, road work, materials handling, demolition tasks and landscaping. With the unit’s quick-disconnect fittings, attachments can be changed with the hydraulic system under pressure, so multiple jobs can be performed in less time, according to the manufacturer.
For more information, call 800/654-6481 or visit www.ditchwitch.com.