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Gradall Introduces New Rapid Drive Models To Its Fleet

Gradall Industries, Inc., has introduced two new railway maintenance of way machine models, featuring faster maximum travel speeds on tracks to complement their highway speed travel advantages. Both equipped with Gradall's new Rapid Drive advantage, the new models can be driven on rails from the upperstructure operator cab at speeds up to 40 mph in either direction.

"These machines are built on our highway speed undercarriages, so when there's an emergency repair need, the operator can drive a Gradall machine to a rail crossing at 60 mph from the carrier cab and then quickly load it on rails, lowering the Diversified rail gear from either the carrier or upper operator cab," said John Bridgeman, Gradall's industrial accounts manager.

"Once it's on track, the machine uses the carrier's wheels for mobility, with an operator cab switch to select Rapid Drive, for travel speeds up to 40 mph, or the work mode, for repositioning speeds up to 5 mph. Those choices enable the operator to address and complete a variety of jobs very quickly.

"Given the speed at which emergency repairs need to be addressed or the shorter track times typically available, this is a huge advantage for railroads and contractors."

See how it works: https://youtu.be/Jw8ep6aJh6U

New Rexroth hydraulic system
The new XL 4130V RD and XL 5130V RD Rapid Drive models also feature the new Rexroth main hydraulic control valve system. The new system provides a 50 percent increase in auxiliary circuit flow to accommodate today's new multi-function attachments, and it also reduces the internal back pressure by 50 percent in the valve for better performance. All external pilot lines in the new Rexroth system are now internal to reduce the exposure of potential leak points.

Gradall's new models also incorporate a two-speed powershift ZF transmission for extra speed and pulling ability. Equipped with optional coupler and train air options, the machines have the drawbar power to pull gondola train cars full of stone to work sites, repairing rail crossings, cleaning up landslides, replacing rails, spreading ballast and cutting back vegetation.

Gradall boom advantages
All Gradall machines are distinguished by their low-profile, long-reach capabilities using the world-famous telescoping, tilting Gradall boom design and 220-degree full boom tilt capability for total boom power and precise attachment placement.

In addition, Gradall offers an optional Kinshofer Nox-Tiltrotator, featuring 360-degree continuous attachment rotation and extra tilt motion. The Nox-Tiltrotator also accommodates a wide range of attachments designed for railway maintenance efficiency, which can be changed hydraulically from the operator cab.

Gradall's low-profile telescoping boom along with its short rear tail swing create a compact profile, allowing the machines to work efficiently under bridges and inside tunnels where knuckle booms won't fit.

Gradall mobility advantages
Gradall is famous globally for introducing wheeled excavator mobility on highways as well as dirt.

XL 4130V RD model, with highway speed capability, weighs 54,500 pounds and has a boom reach of 31 feet. Also, with highway speed capability, the XL 5130V RD weighs 62,500 pounds and has a boom reach of over 34 feet.

On/off pavement Gradall railway maintenance of way machines are capable of 20 mph on-track mobility with a rugged undercarriage that works efficiently, without outriggers, in any direction. The XL 3330 model 47,300 pounds and has a 31-foot boom reach. The 4330V model weighs 43,034 pounds and has a 28-foot boom reach. The 5330V model weighs 55,200 pounds and has a 34-foot, five-inch reach.

All models are available with a host of standard operator cab features including air conditioning, removable front window, a large adjustable seating module and an in-cab switch to select Gradall, SAE or Deere joystick patterns. Highway speed carrier advantages include an automatic transmission.

Machines have almost 70 percent parts commonality, simplifying the task of maintaining inventories to complete common service functions. These machines also have longer routine service intervals, and most service locations can be reached from ground level. A network of authorized distributors supports all Gradall excavators, supplying service advice and authorized Gradall parts.

Watch the Gradall TrackStar models go to work: https://youtu.be/Cz8RZZ0YUAU

Manufactured only in America, Gradall models meet or exceed ISO 9001-2008 standards for quality. For more information, including railway work case histories, visit http://www.gradallrail.com or call 800-445-4752.