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Swing Loader Railcar Mover
Description:
Introducing the Mitchell 180° Swing Loader Railcar Mover System
Mitchell is proud to introduce our cutting-edge 180° Swing Loader System—a groundbreaking fusion of Mitchell's Friction Drive Hi-Rail Gear and a robust 180° parallel lift Swing Loader. This versatile system seamlessly integrates with a wide range of loaders, from smaller options such as the Cat 930 series to larger wheel loaders like the Cat 962 series, all while boasting a formidable swing boom with an impressive 20,000 lbs. lift capacity, capable of handling substantial buckets and heavy attachments with ease.
What sets our system apart is its remarkable adaptability to the size of the base wheel loader. Larger loaders inherently provide superior stability when executing rail-side lifts. Additionally, our system incorporates Mitchell's advanced Friction Drive Hi-Rail technology, enabling self-propulsion on rail tracks.
Yet, the Mitchell Swing Loader offers more than just versatility. It distinguishes itself with its unique ability to function as a standard wheel loader, complete with lift arm and bucket geometry. Our innovative design includes features like return-to-dig functionality boom stops during lowering and an auto bucket level that ensures the bucket remains level during dumping or carrying operations. Our swing loader boom also boasts a quick coupler, enabling lightning-fast attachment changes in seconds. While other specialty-built Swing machines have their merits, railroads predominantly rely on standard wheel loaders within the same lift capacity class as our swing loader for on-the-ground material handling. By seamlessly integrating our Swing Loader system into one of Caterpillar's wheel loaders, we offer the best of both worlds in a single package—enhanced performance combined with compatibility with Caterpillar's global parts and service network.
At the heart of our system lies the retractable Friction Drive Hi-Rail Gear, expertly integrated into the loader's frame. The rail wheels feature an advanced friction drive hub that engages with the tires, translating tire rotation into seamless rail wheel movement. This mechanical friction drive system is renowned for its unparalleled reliability, utilizing the road axle drive line system and braking system for optimal propulsion and braking efficiency. When on the railroad track, the articulated frame is hydraulically locked, ensuring precise alignment between the front and rear rail wheels.
While the initial cost of a Friction Drive Hi-Rail Swing Loader may exceed that of a specialty-built swing machine, the overall cost of ownership is significantly lower. Caterpillar-based machines surpass the life expectancy of specialty-built swing machines many times over. Specialty-built swing machines often rely on components that become discontinued within a few years, resulting in costly retro-fitting or even complete machine scrapping. In contrast, Caterpillar components are known for their longevity, reducing the total cost of ownership.
Furthermore, our Swing Loader can be configured as a Swing Loader Railcar Mover. Our system offers flexibility with options for a standard railcar coupler at the front or rear and a rear-mounted weight transfer coupler. The weight transfer coupler includes a shelf-type railcar knuckle, enhancing traction by transferring a predetermined amount of weight from the railcar to the Hy-Rail wheels.
As part of the package, our system includes a 60 CFM train air brake system, allowing cab-controlled management of the railcar's braking system from the loader.
Considering the costs of maintaining a specialized mobile railcar mover alongside regular maintenance for a customer's existing front-end loader, consolidating these functions into a single machine proves economically prudent. Front-end loaders are ideal base units due to their robust engine and drive line systems, prioritizing durability, reliability, and product support.
In conclusion, choose the Mitchell 180° Swing Loader System for a versatile, high-performance solution that caters to your rail-related needs, including railcar moving. Benefit from Caterpillar's machinery's reliability and extensive support network while elevating your material handling capabilities with Mitchell's superior technology and ingenuity.