What's New

December/January 2003/04

	Contractor Loader Kit Farmtown Industries has developed an range of contractor kits for the new Avant 313 mini-loader. The contractor kit includes a loader along with key attachments such as a loader bucket, posthole digger and chain trencher in a purpose-built single-axle plant trailer with fold down-ramps for fast easy access. Tradesmen, Lanscapers, or narrow-access earthmoving contractors therefore have all the items they might require with them whenever they arrive at a job site. This eliminates costly time-waste when necessary attachments are not readily available. It also allows the contractor to offer to fulfill additional tasks while at the jobsite. The Avant 313 features four direct-drive wheel motors eliminating the need for chains and sprockets. The loader has a full ROPS and includes a seat belt for operator safety. Other Loader Kits area available for larger units such as the articulated Avant 500 Series. Farmtown Industries, 7 Wallamore Road (PO Box 7090, NEMSC 2348) Tamworth 2340; 1300 653 753 (02) 6762 2287 F: (02) 6762 5245.
	New Shindaiwa Power Broom Bristle Brush Shindaiwa has recently introduced an “aggressive” nylon brush for its PowerBroom units ideal for installing synthetic turf: proving effective sand infilling, and breaking apart synthetic grass turf fibres. In this “post-fibrillation” process, the Shindaiwa brushes add volume to the synthetic turf, producing a “real” grass feel and appearance. Current industry practice is to post-fibrillate turf with a street-sweeper. A street-sweeper cannot be used on edges, around obstacles, along seams, or small, tight areas. Use of a wire push broom is slow and labour-intensive. While installing synthetic turf workers using a standard wire broom install turf at about 65min/m2 (6min/sq ft). Operators using the Shindaiwa PowerBroom equipped with the new nylon bristle brush, however, complete the installation of turf in about 9.3min/m2 (1min.sq ft) a tremendous time saving. Shindaiwa products are distributed by: PowerUp (Nth NSW & Qld) 11 Sodium Street, Narangba 4504 (PO Box 603, Redcliffe 4020); 1300 363 004 (07) 3385 4949 F: (07) 3385 4987 W: www.rgs.com.au; Lee-Archer & Co (Vic/Tas/SA) 2 Woodbine Court, Wantirna 3152; (03) 9801 8834 1800 626 210 F: (03) 9887 0790 E: leearcherco@telstra.easymail.com.au.
	Tanaka TBC-230S Convertible Brushcutter Tanaka's new TBC-230S (Split Shaft) is a convertible 5-in-1 multi-tool. With access to a variety of attachments that connect through a quick spring-lock system, The TBC230S allows operators to quickly change from brushcutter, to edger, hedgetrimmer to pole saw or garden tiller in seconds. The modular system is easy, convenient and economical. Another added advantage is that the length of the machine can be easily "split" for transportation in the boot of a conventional car. Tanaka's proven 21cc engine which generates 750W (1hp) is equipped with a primer for easy starting. The unit can also be fitted with Tanaka's new "S" Start (Smart Start) recoil system accessory, which makes this unit one of the lightest and easiest starting brushcutters on the market. "Smart Start" component is a spring-assisted oversize pulley, designed for effortless starting. For operator comfort, the engine is fitted with anti-vibration and a low-noise muffler. Parklands Trading distributes Tanaka product from: 106 Belmore Road (PO Box 213) Riverwood 2210; (02) 9584 7700 F: (02) 9153 9122 W: www.parklands.net E: management@parklands.net.
	Grillo Climber 910 The Grillo Climber has been designed in Italy to operate in demanding conditions on slopes beyond the capacity of other machines in its class. The unit has an extremely low centre of gravity and very carefully refined balance. The low-set operator’s seat is positioned immediately above the deck. Large ag-tyres (13 x 50 – 6 front; 17 x 8.00 – 8 rear) for maximum traction and an optional differential lock. Powered by a 13.4kW (18hp) B&S Vanguard V-twin engine, the hydrostatic unit has infinitely variable speeds up to 8km/h (5mph). The 91cm (36”) oscillating steel deck can either discharge to the rear or side. There are four cut heights between 3-12cm (1-5”). The result is a work capacity of 0.5ha/h (1.2acres/h). A large 15L (3.3gal) fuel tank carries sufficient fuel for 4 hours continuous operation. Other features include a fully adjustbale steering wheel, ergonomically designed controls and adjustable seating. Grillo units are available from Inlon, 17 Catamaran Road, Ourimbah 2258 (PO Box 186, Taukley 2263); (02) 4389 1477 F: (02) 4389 1478.
	Hustler Slope Mower Hustler has released the new mower specifically designed for safe operation on inclines. The ATZ features a certified 2-post ROPS with additional 4-post roll cage and seat belt for operator security. The White RC 26 wheel motors have been selected to provide additional torque at lower hydraulic pressures for improved slope performance. The higher torque delivers more useable power for better slope performance while the lowered pressure demands should increase pump and motor life. Hustler ATZ has added weight strategically and widened the mower’s stance to lower the centre of gravity and improve stability. They tyres are fitted “backwards” for better traction when backing up slopes. The net result is a product that gives ZTR productivity in a safe, inclined operating environment. Hewlett Equipment imports Hustler mowers at: 823 Boundary Road, Coopers Plains 4108; (07) 3277 3233 F: (07) 3875 1160.
	Stihl Combi System Stihl’s new Combi System gives owners the flexibility of six OPE lines without having to buy all half a dozen individual products. The Combi system revolves around a a single powerhead that attaches to six CombiTools, allowing professionals to quickly switch, for example, from a Brushcutter to a Power Sweeper, or a Hedge Trimmer to a Pole Pruner, saving time and money on the job as well as off the job maintaining tools. The CombiSystem’s self aligning, quick-action coupling mechanism makes assembling from tool to tool a breeze, and its compactable design makes storage and transport easy. While all CombiTools can be purchased separately, the system comes in the following four standard models: Brushcutter Hedge Trimmer Pole Pruner Power Edger Two additional attachments are also available: a Power Broom to clean up soil and a Soil Cultivator. The CombiSystem offers professionals the choice of two engines: the 750W (1hp) 27cc KM55 C or the more powerful 950W (1.3hp) 25cc KM85. Stihl has more information at: 2 Forbes Close, Scoresby 3179 (PO Box 74, Knoxfield MDA 3180); (03) 9215-6666 F: (03) 9763 4423 W: www.stihl.com.au.
	Rampboss A Queensland company has developed an inexpensive alternative to hydraulic powered tailgate lifters. The Rampboss is a patented collapsible metal ramp that fits onto a tow-bar. This means that it does not impinge on load space. The ramp is counterweighted so that only about 10 Newtons effort is needed to raise of lower it. The entire process takes less than a minute, meaning that items can be loaded much faster than with a traditional hydraulic lifter. Rampboss is also only a fraction of the cost of a hydraulic lifter. Field trails have shown that it can pay for itself in less than two weeks. Rampboss has a rated capacity of 300kg. The device can be easily transferred from vehicle to vehicle and requires virtually no ongoing maintenance. Importantly from an Occupational Health & Safety angle, Rampboss is full width, making it much safer to use than twin tyre ramps. The surface has a unique, slip-resistant surface for all weather use. It has many applications from Invalid Taxis and couriers to plant and equipment transport. Rampboss is manufactured in Ashmore on Queensland's Gold Coast. Further information: PO Box 6011, Gold Coast Mail Centre (GCMC) 9726; 0408 754 725.
	Stihl Easy2Start Brushcutter Stihl has released a Brushcutter with a new easy-starting system that makes it as easy to start as opening a door. Tests have shown that Easy2Start technology requires 70% less effort than traditional LineTrimmer recoil starting systems making it ideal for women, the elderly or infirm and those who need to start their units many times during the day such as contractors. The new Stihl FS 45 C Easy2Start LineTrimmer starts easily without any hasty movements. All that is needed is a gentle uniform pull on the starter rope. The trimmer still incorporates the performance features of a conventional brushcutter. Stihl Easy2Start technology will be incorporated in some units across the company’s wide range of hand-held OPE lines. Stihl’s Australian head office is located at: 2 Forbes Close, Scoresby 3179 (PO Box 74, Knoxfield MDA 3180);(03) 9215-6666 F: (03) 9763 4423 W: www.stihl.com.au

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