Industry News - November, 2020 | Supply Post - Canada's #1 Heavy Construction Equipment & Commercial Truck Newspaper

Liebherr Restores A 60-Year-Old Wheel Loader Prototype - The LSL 1500

Almost 60 years after its debut, Liebherr has restored one of the first wheel loader prototypes from the corporate group’s early years: the LSL 1500. This specimen is the oldest preserved Liebherr wheel loader in existence. Liebherr has invested about 650 working hours in the restoration of the vintage loader which is now used as an exhibition piece in the Liebherr Bischofshofen factory.
“When developing wheel loaders, we deal with the latest technologies and trends on a daily basis. However, we also respect our roots. And this wheel loader here shows that Liebherr was getting innovative machine concepts off the ground even six decades ago,” explains Martin Gschwend, who is managing director of the Liebherr Bischofshofen plant and responsible for the worldwide distribution of Liebherr wheel loaders.
At the Bischofshofen facility, he is inspecting a particular rarity: a Liebherr LSL 1500 wheel loader from the early 1960s. It is the only remaining example of a pilot series of only five machines and is the oldest preserved Liebherr wheel loader in existence. The wheel loader specialists in Bischofshofen have lovingly and fully restored this machine over recent months.

From Scrap Metal To An Exhibition Piece
The wheel loader veteran has had a very full life. After a few years at a gravel factory in the Biberach area, the machine arrived at the Fried-Sped corporate group in Ummendorf circa 1980. The LSL 1500 served the logistics specialist reliably for around 20 years. At the beginning of the 2000s, with the shovel loader already around 40 years old, Liebherr took the prototype back and preserved the now decommissioned wheel loader.
However, this storage location was not to be the final resting place for the historic wheel loader. In 2019, Liebherr-Werk Bischofshofen GmbH decided to fully restore this last remaining LSL 1500. The ravages of time, particularly in the form of rust and frost damage, had taken their toll on the machine.
The project began in the spring of 2020 at the Liebherr Bischofshofen plant. The wheel loader experts refurbished each individual part of the LSL 1500 down to the very last screw. For the team, the renovation meant much more than mere nostalgia: “Several apprentices worked on the restoration. For them, this was a rare opportunity to observe and understand the technology of earlier times,” explains Andreas Scharler, who ran the repair centre for many years.
In many places, technical skill and improvisational talent were required. “When you start the diesel engine, the operating voltage suddenly switches from 12 to 24 volts. We first had to analyse this process correctly in order to be able to start the wheel loader successfully. It was a splendid moment when we heard the powerful six-cylinder diesel engine running for the first time,” says Scharler, who, with his team, invested about 650 working hours in this vintage wheel loader.

More »

Nov 30, 2020 - 4 years ago

John Deere Adds Industry-Exclusive Technology To GP-Series Motor Graders

John Deere expands the capabilities of its popular Grade Pro (GP)-Series of motor graders with new technology, including two industry-exclusive features, Blade Stow and Auto-Gain for Cross Slope. The new features, which also include Machine Damage Avoidance, deliver higher productivity, increased uptime and lower daily operating costs during operation.
“Our customers challenge us to find new ways to incorporate smart technologies into Deere products. They are looking for solutions to help make equipment easier to run and more efficient,” said Luke Kurth, product marketing manager, motor graders. “These new features allow new operators to come up to speed more quickly, and all operators can take full advantage of the productivity of Deere graders. We are committed to delivering a differentiated customer experience by bringing innovation to the always-evolving construction industry.”
The technology updates include two industry-exclusive offerings, Blade Stow and Auto-Gain, providing greater simplification for the operator. Blade Stow, standard with machine presets or Automation Suite, adds a configurable setting to automatically stow the blade with the touch of a button. With Auto-Gain, the machine automatically adjusts the Cross Slope gain setting on the fly based on the operating conditions, eliminating the need for operators to make manual adjustments. Auto-Gain improves productivity for operators by ensuring accurate blade movement in ever-changing conditions.
The GP-Series motor graders can be further enhanced with optional Machine Damage Avoidance. When activated, the feature reduces the chance of downtime by preventing the moldboard from inadvertently contacting the tires, the cab steps or frame and the saddle from contacting the table. With this feature, operators can focus on the job at hand, improving productivity.
SmartGrade™ motor grader models received additional enhancements to the industry’s first mastless motor grader for greater flexibility and productivity, including a larger file-processing capability, up to 20% faster file transfers and increased real-time kinematic (RTK) radio stability. SmartGrade machines are now compatible with network RTK and local positioning system (LPS) technology.
In addition, John Deere now includes the factory-installed Premium Circle on all new SmartGrade motor graders. The fully sealed bearing and pinion help reduce maintenance costs and downtime by eliminating wear inserts and ensuring the circle remains tight during operation, maximizing accuracy while also significantly boosting circle torque and speed. The addition of the package, combined with the power of the SmartGrade technology, will boost machine productivity and uptime, positively impacting contractors’ bottom lines.

More »

Nov 27, 2020 - 4 years ago

B.C. Embarks On New Approach To Old Forests

BC Embarks On New Approach To Old Forests

The B.C. government is taking a new, holistic approach as a first step for the benefit of all British Columbians to protect old-growth forests.
This will include the protection of nine areas throughout the province, totalling almost 353,000 hectares.
In a break from the divisive practices of the past, government will engage the full involvement of Indigenous leaders and organizations, labour, industry and environmental groups to work together in conserving biodiversity while supporting jobs and communities, especially on the coast and Vancouver Island. The actions government is taking are informed by the independent panel report, A New Future for Old Forests.
“For many years, there has been a patchwork approach to how old-growth forests are managed in our province, and this has caused a loss of biodiversity. We need to do better and find a path forward that preserves old-growth forests, while supporting forest workers,” said Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Those who are calling for the status quo to remain are risking crucial biodiversity loss, while those who are calling for immediate moratoriums on logging are ignoring the needs of tens of thousands of workers. Our government believes in supporting workers, while addressing the needs of old-growth forests, and these values will guide our new approach.”
In July 2019, government appointed panel members Garry Merkel and Al Gorley to lead an old-growth strategic review. They gathered input and examined old-growth management from a variety of perspectives. On April 30, 2020, they submitted 14 recommendations to the Province in their report.
Merkel and Gorley outline a four-phased process government should undertake to develop and implement an old-growth strategy. The strategy consists of immediate actions in the first six months, near-term actions over six to 12 months, mid-term actions over six to 18 months and long-term actions over 18 to 36 months.

More »

Nov 26, 2020 - 4 years ago

New Front-Mount Snowblower Attachment For Bobcat Compact Tractors

Bobcat Company, a global leader in compact equipment, is expanding its compact tractor attachment offering with the new front-mount snowblower. The front-mount snowblower – available in 49-inch and 62-inch widths – is positioned in front of the machine, rather than behind on a 3-point hitch. The front-mounted attachment provides customers a more comfortable way to clear snow around acreages or barns as they do not need to turn around in their seat to monitor the performance of the attachment.
Features include a two-stage blower design and hydraulic rotating chute to direct snow wherever operators want it. Adjustable skid shoes help scrape the pavements clean or can be set higher to remove snow from gravel lots or driveways. A bolt-on reversible cutting edge is included for added durability.

How It Works
The front-mounted snowblower is driven from the mid-power-take-off (PTO) – which transfers the power from the compact tractor engine to the snowblower – and connected via a lift kit. Operators can hydraulically raise and lower the snowblower and redirect the discharge chute using the joystick.

More »

Nov 25, 2020 - 4 years ago

Kenworth T680 Features Stunning Beautiful Design for U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour

A Kenworth T680 is now adorned with a stunning exterior graphics design and in Colorado to begin the 2020 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree tour.
The 2020 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is a 55-foot tall Engelmann Spruce.
Apex Transportation in Henderson, Colo., is using the T680 to transport the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the November 5th tree-harvesting ceremony in the Uncompahgre National Forest to Washington, D.C. The T680 with the beautiful design will transport the 55-foot Engelmann Spruce on a nearly 2,000-mile journey, which will include a series of outdoor community celebrations, primarily within the state of Colorado.
The graphics package features a decorated Christmas tree and the U.S. Capitol Building, 14,023-foot Wilson Peak in Colorado’s Uncompahgre National Forest, and “From Colorful Colorado to America’s Front Steps.” This year’s logo, placed on the T680 roof, incorporates the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree theme “Experience Your Nature,” names of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests in western Colorado, and Colorado state flag.
The Kenworth T680 is being driven by Theron Schmalzried and William “Butch” Hanna of Apex Transportation, a Colorado leader in flatbed trucking and specialty transportation services. Schmalzried and Hanna have 42 years and 41 years, respectively, of truck driving experience. Schmalzried has spent 23 years with Apex Transportation, while Hanna has driven for the company for 17 years.
The Kenworth T680 is equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the 455-hp PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR 12-speed automated transmission, and PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles. The truck is also specified with Kenworth’s “Driver’s Studio” with 180-degree passenger swivel seat and 90-degree rotating table, Kenworth Diamond VIT interior, premium Kenworth GT703 seats, predictive cruise control, Kenworth Nav+HD system, liftable lower bunk and stowable upper bunk, and Kenworth TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics.
This marks the seventh consecutive year that a Kenworth truck will deliver “The People’s Tree.”
For more information, visit the 2020 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree website (www.uscapitolchristmas
tree.com).

More »

Nov 24, 2020 - 4 years ago

Inland And CASE CE Launch CharityDRIVE

Inland and CASE CE Launch CharityDRIVE

Since 2016, the Okanagan Dream Rally has endeavored to positively influence the lives of thousands annually. Inland and CASE Construction Equipment, alongside the August Group and omni.auto, have participated in this immensely special supercar charity, putting a smile on the faces of children in need—and helping raise more than $1.7 million dollars for the Ronald McDonald House and other local charities the past four years.
Due to the impact of COVID-19 throughout the B.C. community, however, the Okanagan Dream Rally has been postponed for 2020. The repercussions are massive. This one-of-a-kind event was estimated to prospectively raise over $1 million this year alone for special needs children.
But that’s not where this story ends. Not by a long shot.
The Inland/CASE Construction Equipment CharityDRIVE is gearing up to fill the void left by the Dream Rally’s unavoidable absence this year. With the Ronald McDonald House of British Columbia and Yukon operating as an independent, locally-owned charity, they rely entirely on the support and generosity of the community.
The charity’s goal is to raise $50,000 for the Ronald McDonald House during these uniquely challenging times. Inland and CASE Construction Equipment is donating $10,000 to seed the initiative, in addition to donating $250 per unit sold and matching donations up to an additional $10,000.

Win The Supercar Experience Of A Lifetime
When you donate to the Ronald McDonald House OR make a purchase of CASE Construction Equipment this year, you’ll be put in the driver’s seat to win a Supercar Experience unlike any other.
Actually, it’s even better than that: With your donation or purchase, you’ll be entered to win your choice of one of two Supercar Experiences, each generously offered by Brent Marshall of omni.auto and Matt August of August Luxury Motorcars.

More »

Nov 23, 2020 - 4 years ago

Industry News - November, 2020

Liebherr Restores A 60-Year-Old Wheel Loader Prototype - The LSL 1500

John Deere Adds Industry-Exclusive Technology To GP-Series Motor Graders

B.C. Embarks On New Approach To Old Forests

New Front-Mount Snowblower Attachment For Bobcat Compact Tractors

Kenworth T680 Features Stunning Beautiful Design for U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Tour

Inland And CASE CE Launch CharityDRIVE

News Archive

2025

2024

2023

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2010

News Archive

Subscribe to the Supply Post Print Edition

Subscribe Free to the Supply Post E-News

Read Free the Digital Edition

Read the Digital Edition

Next Print Deadline

Subscribe
Free
to the Supply Post E-News

Read
Free
the Digital Edition