Skip to main content

More making the grade

The grader market may be comparatively small but it is still fiercely fought and while Caterpillar holds a strong market share worldwide, other firms are also increasing their presence in the sector. John Deere hopes to capitalise on its share by installing the new G-series graders with the firm’s PowerTech, Tier 4 Final compliant engines. The engine update has also allowed engineers to install a number of other upgrades. The G-Series still includes 12 models, with power ranging from 164-214kW and six o
March 11, 2014 Read time: 2 mins
Sophisticated machine control technology is an option on the latest John Deere grader models
The grader market may be comparatively small but it is still fiercely fought and while 178 Caterpillar holds a strong market share worldwide, other firms are also increasing their presence in the sector. 257 John Deere hopes to capitalise on its share by installing the new G-series graders with the firm’s 3089 PowerTech, Tier 4 Final compliant engines.

The engine update has also allowed engineers to install a number of other upgrades. The G-Series still includes 12 models, with power ranging from 164-214kW and six of the units featuring six-wheel drive. All the models weigh the same as their predecessors and visibility remains good to the sides and rear, while the proven smooth-shifting direct-drive transmission has been retained. A key point is that the diesel particulate filter (DPF) cleaning is automatic and testing shows that the system can go up to 15,000 hours before the need for ash removal.  

Customers continue to get a steering wheel and can choose from the console-mounted control pattern or armrest-mounted fingertip Controls. Another important point is that the GP models come factory-equipped with connectors, sensor mounts, wiring harnesses, integrated Controls, and moldboard mast mounts. Machines can be factory-installed with the 342 Topcon 3D-MC2 grade control system.
Meanwhile the Turkish construction equipment manufacturer 230 Hidromek is looking to expand its product range with the acquisition of the Mitsubishi grader line-up. The Deal was signed between Hidromek and 6406 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI). This is the latest in a series of moves by Hidromek in its bid to expand its product range and increase its international presence as an equipment manufacturer. It also offers new opportunities for the existing distribution network, which will be able to supply graders along with backhoe loaders and excavators. Existing customers around the world will be supported through the Hidromek network as well as MHI network wherever applicable. As per this agreement, MHI will for a given period of time provide technical support and motor grader parts to Hidromek.

For more information on companies in this article

Related Content

  • Emissions regulation leads to efficiency gains
    November 6, 2012
    Innovative technology is use is providing efficient, clean burning engines - Mike Woof reports The development of new diesel engine technology has, for the off-highway equipment sector, been the single most expensive research field for the industry since these machines first started being manufactured. Aimed at reducing the emissions of nitrous oxide as well as particulate matter, in a phased series of stages the engine emission improvements will make major changes to the construction sector. In real world
  • Innovative earthmovers coming to market
    October 12, 2017
    A wide range of innovative earthmover solutions is now coming to market - Mike Woof writes Generally with major construction equipment exhibitions timed for the second quarter of each year, this is when manufacturers will roll out their latest earthmoving solutions. However 2017 has turned out to be something of an anomaly, with the major firms continuing to unveil new models. Firms have introduced new wheeled loaders, excavators, and dozers, although arguably, some of the most interesting developments
  • Shantui diversifying from core dozer line
    October 14, 2013
    Chinese bulldozer firm Shantui is building on its core competency of bulldozers, broadening its range as well as its operations – Mike Woof writes Bulldozer specialist Shantui has a clear policy of broadening its product range, having grown from being a small producer with a limited model line-up to become a major global manufacturer. The company began its diversification process in 1999, buying a road machinery range and then following this up with a line of concrete equipment in 2008. This process cont
  • Deere’s big Brazilian investment
    May 14, 2012
    Deere & Company plans to build two new factories in Brazil to meet growing market demand for its construction equipment products in Brazil and other South American countries. The total investment is approximately US$180 million with Deere investing approximately $124 million of the total.