Robot skidsteers aim for the top
Robot skidsteers aim for the top
IMPROVED visibility and easier access to the cab and for maintenance are part of the improvements on two new JCB Robot skidsteer loaders.
Robot 160 and 170 have been introduced to replace the 150 and 165 which, at 600-700kg lift capacity, are recognised as the firms volume-selling models in the UKs skidsteer loader market. The larger 185 and 1105 models are unchanged.
The most significant design change is the use of a single, lower pivot point on the right-hand side of the machine, for the one-arm boom. Compared with previous Robot models which use a twin pivot design, rearward visibility is said to be much better. And combined with a sloping engine cowling, JCB claims rear visibility with the Robot is now the best in its class.
"The extra visibility afforded by the new boom pivot structure is particularly important for working in restricted spaces," says Alan Thomson, managing director of JCB Compact Products.
Since 1998, JCB has expanded its share of the UKs skid steer market from 8% to achieve 12% in 1999, raising the company to second place behind Bobcat. With the new models, JCB intends to challenge Bobcat, although even JCB must concede there is clearly some way to go before Bobcats market share is severely dented.
"We have redeveloped the Robot to also offer increased compatibility with a greater range of attachments," says Mr Thomson. "Bobcat attachments can now be quickly and easily fitted to the Robot 160 and 170 models."
Access to and from the cab is now easier as a result of relocated drive chains which allows a low entry point into the cab, and the new loaders can be specified with one of three control systems: Hand and foot, hand controls and JCBs own servo hand control pattern.
Power remains unchanged at 47.5hp and 50hp, respectively, for the Robot 160 and 170 models, though a quieter hydrostatic drive pump contributes to reduced transmission noise when making spin turns.
JCB has also made improvements to simplify serviceability of the new Robot models. A sloping steel bonnet gives easier engine access, a swing-down rear grille exposes the radiator and oil cooler and a drain hole in the rear of the chassis is said to ease debris removal from the radiator.
Other improvements to be found on the 160 and 170 Robots include bump stops to cushion the loader arms on the chassis, 31% more axle torque and hydraulic flow increased from 100 litres/min to 115 for improved attachment performance. *
JCB Robot data
Model Weight (kg) Capacity (kg) Width (mm) Power (hp)
160 2,410 600 1,370 47.5
170/170HF 2,510 700 1,600 50
185/185HF 3,320 850 1,700 75
1105/1105HF 3,450 1,050 1,700 80
HF denotes high flow hydraulic system.
Aiming for the top… JCB hopes its revised Robot 160 and 170 models with improved all-round visibility and easier cab access will move the firm ever closer to the top of the UK market.