The first R2-Series excavators to launch will include the Bobcat E42 and E50 compact excavators. Additional R2-Series excavators from Bobcat will be introduced at a later date.
Improved low-effort joysticks
New R2-Series E42 and E50 excavators feature improved low-effort joysticks. They respond easily to operator input, enabling longer operation with less fatigue. Bobcat joysticks provide quick and precise movement with low effort, while the new hydraulic control valve offers improved metering, finite movement and controllability for level grading, as well as fast cycle times.
Depth check ready
New R2-Series E42 and E50 excavators are approved and ready for the optional Bobcat depth check accessory kit for compact excavators. You can use this kit to improve profitability by minimizing the tendency to over- and under-dig. These excavators are designed to accept all depth check system components. Depth check functions are integrated with your standard 5-inch LCD display or the optional touch display. This simple, durable kit is wired, so job conditions or wireless signal loss never interfere with your digging accuracy.
Improved performance
New R2-Series excavators feature dual-flange track rollers that extend the undercarriage structure closer to the track’s edge. The added stability features in this design result in an increase in lift-over-side capacity. It also improves over-the-side digging performance and slewing ability.
Redesigned Bobcat engine
New R2-Series excavators feature a more efficient engine that delivers the performance operators need while reducing and simplifying routine maintenance. The new engine improves cold-weather operation and includes a variety of features that make maintenance and service more convenient.
WD-40 Company launches new WD-40 Specialist product to break rust
To help industry professionals in the automotive, farming, construction, and maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) fields break rust on equipment and machinery, WD-40 Company is introducing Penetrant with Flexible Straw to its WD-40 Specialist line.
WD-40 Specialist Penetrant with Flexible Straw makes it easy to get into hard-to-reach crevices, threads and seams to break up rust and bonds that hold stuck parts together. The product also prevents rust and corrosion from reforming and leaves behind a lubricating layer.
Trade professionals and technicians will find plenty of uses for the new product and its handy, bendable straw, including:
Automotive – The flexible straw makes it easier to get to a hard-to-reach exhaust manifold, suspension fastener, compressor bolt, alternator or brake caliper while also limiting overspray.
Farming – When releasing rust on a combine’s stock stomper or ball joints, the reach, precision and angle of spray possible with the flexible straw makes work easier.
Construction – Easily remove hidden rusty screws, nuts or bolts from their housings with flexibility and ease.
MRO – Use the flexible straw to release rust on a Jacobs super chuck or lathe.
John Deere completes L-Series Utility Wheel Loader line with four new models
John Deere expands the L-Series Wheel Loader lineup with four new utility models: the 444L, 644L, 644L Hybrid and 724L. The new wheel loaders incorporate several customer-driven improvements to boost performance and productivity, including a redesigned Z-bar loader linkage; an updated, ergonomically designed cab; electrohydraulic (EH) controls; and a more robust heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
The powerful new wheel loaders were designed to maximize productivity. Horsepower has been increased from the previous K-Series models on the 644L, 644L Hybrid and 724L, boasting 249 horsepower (186 kilowatts), 231 horsepower (172 kilowatts) and 268 horsepower (200 kilowatts), respectively.
The redesigned Z-bar linkage provides improved visibility to the front attachment and near parallel lift, which is now 8 degrees. A change from previous models, this improves load leveling throughout the lift cycle. Additionally, the 724L hinge pin height on the standard Z-bar was enhanced by 3 inches compared to the K-Series machine, increasing clearance when dumping into hoppers or trucks.
The all-new cab is filled with features designed to provide a first-class work environment, including increased functional storage, durable seats and an improved HVAC system. Customers can choose one of two cab options – standard or premium – to ensure their needs are met. Both options deliver three more inches of room between the pedals and the seat compared to the previous models. The standard cab features a deluxe cloth, air suspension seat, while the premium cab is equipped with a heated and ventilated heavy-duty air suspension seat. The premium cab also features automatic temperature control. The updated and relocated HVAC controls are easily reached, so the operator can adjust the blower speed or temperature with ease, while rear defrost improves cold-weather visibility.
The single-lever hydraulic joystick control with an ergonomically designed grip is equipped with a standard forward-neutral-reverse switch as well as two multifunction buttons that can be programmed to control any of 10 different functions selected in the monitor. This helps operators easily control multiple functions without removing their hand from the joystick. Additionally, when properly equipped, the lever features integrated thumb rollers for auxiliary functions, making the single-lever joystick capable of controlling up to six different functions.
The new Quadtrac and Steiger AFS Connect series: When power meets technology
Case IH introduces the new Quadtrac and Steiger AFS Connect series tractor. The range will include in total 14 models, covering 420 to 620 HP. Quadtrac AFS Connect will be available from 470 to 620 HP, and Steiger AFS Connect from 420 to 500 HP. Several upgrades will be included, such as a redesigned cab and an ultimate connectivity to allow comfort and higher productivity.
Workhorse power and performance
The new lineup of Quadtrac and Steiger AFS Connect tractors can be configured to fit any operation and is built for a range of applications.
With two industry-leading transmissions to choose from, Case IH can deliver the optimal choice to meet an operation’s requirements. The fuel-efficient PowerDrive powershift transmission delivers 20% faster shifting and a record-setting 682 peak-horsepower on the Quadtrac 620 model. The CVXDrive – the first continuously variable transmission for an articulated four-wheel-drive tractor – automatically balances power and efficiency.
The Quadtrac AFS Connect tractors also feature larger fuel tanks to cover more acres before needing to refuel. Producers can keep working long days with no engine regeneration, 600-hour oil change intervals and ground-level maintenance to lower operation cost and keep your equipment in the field.
Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory confirmed that Case IH Quadtrac and Steiger tractors are the industry’s most powerful and fuel-efficient tractors available. 
—Compiled by Progressive Forage staff
PHOTOS: Photos courtesy of Bobcat Company, WD-40 Company and Case IH.
