The Gradall XL 3100 III excavator, currently being introduced by Gradall Industries, shares new operation and fleet management advantages with other Gradall Series III excavator models. But what really sets this 40,000-lb. (18,144 kg) workhorse apart from the other excavators is its ability to present a cost-efficient solution to many different tasks on many different kinds of jobs.
Like all Series III excavators, the XL 3100 III has a shorter rear swing, allowing it to work effectively in traffic lanes, at the side of highways and on tight job sites. A new Detroit Diesel Mercedes engine powers the carrier — either 4 x 2 or 4 x4 — at highway speeds to distant job sites. The same engine also supplies power to the boom and upperstructure, reducing fuel consumption and engine service requirements. Highway mobility also eliminates the need for lowboy trailers, and enables fleet managers to return the machine to the safety of equipment yards at night.
Repositioning is accomplished from the upper cab, which has a number of new features for operator comfort and efficiency. For example, one switch in the cab controls carrier speed during repositioning. Using another switch, operators can select Gradall, Deere or SAE joystick patterns, shortening the learning curve for operators who are new to the Gradall telescoping, tilting boom.
Joysticks in the armrests of the comfortable seating module can be used to control the boom and properly position attachments for full productivity and extra versatility. Unlike conventional excavators or machines with boom-end pivot attachments, Gradall excavators maintain full boom forces through the entire digging cycle and entire boom tilt. The telescoping boom action also allows the excavator to reach under bridges, signs, tree limbs and other obstructions where conventional knuckle booms won’t fit.
The XL 3100 III is designed to deliver a maximum reach of 27 ft. 5 in. (8.4 m) at grade; a dig depth of 19 ft. 4 in. (5.9 m); and a maximum working height of 16 ft. 3 in. (5.0 m).
High pressure, load sensing hydraulics prepare the XL 3100 III and its unique boom movements to handle the jobs of many different machines. Use the XL 3100 III to excavate, demolish, load and unload trucks, lift and position pipe, use a grapple to clear streams and vegetation, or spread rip-rap. Gradall excavators also are able to cut V-ditches, create slopes, spread topsoil and create a finished grade.
The advanced hydraulics system has pressure-compensated, load-sensing valves with circuit reliefs on all circuits. This system delivers the right amount of hydraulic power to the boom, increasing cost efficiency and fuel consumption, according to the manufacturer.
Rated bucket breakout force is 17,990 lbs. (111 kN). Telescoping boom crowd force is 21,940 lbs. (109 kN).
The XL 3100 III carrier cab has extra sound-deadening material, an optional tilt steering wheel and a 9-speed transmission and clutch with hydraulic actuation and double plate. Other standard features include hub piloted disc wheels, upper cab wiper and washer, rear tow hooks and an air ride seat in the carrier.
The XL 3100 III shares commonality with other Series III Gradall excavators. Common service parts can simplify inventory and parts management, while the new diesel engine allows for longer periods between oil and filter changes, fuel filter and coolant replacement and valve adjustments. Most service points can be reached at ground level to help assure maximum life and productivity.
Series III excavators also use common attachments including excavating, trenching, ditching, pavement removal and dredging buckets. Also available are a single-tooth ripper, grading blade, tree limb shear, grapple and boom extensions.
Maintenance advantages include an internal swing gear, planetary tilt transmission that’s “lubed for life” and the elimination of boom tilt rollers to avoid service time for roller lubrication and adjustment.
The Gradall network of authorized distributors supports all Gradall excavators, supplying service advice and parts that meet Gradall engineering specifications.
For more information, call 330/339-2211 or visit www.gradall.com.
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