Gehl Answers Call for Larger, More Powerful Skid Steers and CTLs with Large-Frame Loaders

Gehl has introduced five new models of skid steers and compact track loaders to the North American market ranging in operating capacity from 3,250 pounds to 3,600 pounds — each among industry leaders in critical operating metrics including rated operating capacity, breakout force, hydraulic horsepower, auxiliary hydraulics and hinge pin height, Gehl says. 

Each machine has undergone a major industrial redesign that matches practical functionality with a modern look that emphasizes size, strength and power while also highlighting the legacy of the Gehl brand serving the construction, agricultural and landscaping industries in North America for more than 160 years. Each machine is manufactured in Madison, S.D., for the North American market.

“These new machines are second to no other make or model of skids and CTLs in the industry in terms of comprehensive performance, effectiveness, style and safety,” says Nathan Ryan, global product manager — skid steers and CTLs, Gehl. “They are built big, strong, simple and easy to maintain to uphold the demands of the jobsite: uptime, performance, utilization, and efficiency.” 

The five new models are: 

•    The V325 Skid Steer: 72 Horsepower, 3,250 pounds rated operating capacity
•    The V335 Skid Steer: 100 Horsepower, 3,350 pounds rated operating capacity 
•    The V360 Skid Steer: 114 Horsepower, 3,600 pounds rated operating capacity 
•    The VT335 CTL: 100 Horsepower, 3,350 pounds rated operating capacity 
•    The VT360 CTL: 114 Horsepower, 3,600 pounds rated operating capacity 

Each machine is also competitive or superior in bucket breakout force (10,624 pounds), lift arm breakout force (7,041 – 7,116 pounds), hinge pin height (up to 136 inches) and auxiliary hydraulic performance (both in standard and high-flow, gallons per minute  and pressure. The new lineup is built with vertical lift arms for optimal truck loading and stable material handling, while strong cast link construction supports ground engaging performance and steady attachment handling. Rated operating capacity reaches as high as 3,800 pounds with optional side counterweights that both add strength and stability while protecting the rear of the machine. 

“The frame, structure and strength of these machines allows for confident lifting, carrying and placing of heavy loads,” says Ryan. “Match that with the comprehensive hydraulic performance of the machine, from movement and power to attachment operation, and you have an extremely effective and satisfying-to-operate machine.” 

Hydraulics are the heart and muscle 
The new models deliver hydraulic performance in two ways that make them extremely competitive against other large-frame skid steers and CTLs: load sensing hydraulics for total machine performance, and comprehensive auxiliary hydraulic performance for heavy attachment use. 

In addition to hydraulic horsepower (up to 50.3 horsepower) and an optional hydraulic horsepower boost (82 horsepower) that makes each machine among the most powerful in their size classes, standard load sensing hydraulics further intelligently respond to the workload to optimize performance and drive fuel efficiency as the machine only puts out as much power as is necessary to get the job done – saving fuel and stress on the machine and operator. 

The new lineup excels in auxiliary attachment use and performance, with both standard flow rates (up to 25 GPM and 3,450 PSI) and high flow rates (40 GPM up to 3,450 PSI). Variable rate flow controls allow the operator to set the flow going to each attachment for safe and optimal performance of the attachment, and greater overall efficiency of the machine. 

This product line was tested extensively with high-power attachments such as mulching heads, cold planers and brush cutters to ensure consistent operation even in extreme conditions. These skids and CTLs are also excellent assets for snow removal as they will easily handle large snow boxes, as well as snow blowers and brooms. 

A functional design 
The new large-frame skid steers and CTLs from Gehl retain dynamic industry exclusives such as the IdealTrax track-tensioning system and IdealAccess fold-up door. IdealTrax automatically extends the track to its desired tension at machine startup and relieves tension when the machine is turned off. A big change with the new models is that IdealTrax is now set/adjusted in the machine’s in-cab monitor. 

Most noticeable in the new design is a unique and ultra-modern lift-arm design that slopes away from the operator at the top of the arm and allows for hydraulic lines to either run inside of the arm or underneath it for greater protection. The unique contouring of the arms also prevents material from building up on the machine, and improves visibility for the operator down to the side of the machine. 

Gehl’s Hydraglide (comfort ride control boom suspension) is now standard, improving material retention and operator comfort. Skid steer models feature an adjustable arm downstop to accommodate different tire sizes depending on the application/owner preference. 

Each arm features strong cast steel timing links that improve everything from attachment carrying and operation to ground engaging bucket work while reducing stresses on the machine. Greaseable pins are located along the lift arm for easy access and improved service. 

The new product line is redesigned with a patent-pending sloped roof and a large skylight that allows the front crossbar to be smaller, which improves visibility when loading trucks or placing pallets or other material off the ground. An optional Level 2 Falling Object Protective Structure also features brackets that protect the machine’s LED work lights. 

Gehl has designed a purpose-built forestry/site preparation package for heavy-duty CTL applications where mulching, demolition, forestry or other hardcore/high-impact activities take place. This includes an impact-resistant swing-out front door and side glass, as well as guarding for critical work areas to ensure optimal uptime — including a swing-out cage that protects the rear of the machine and adds additional weight to the back end for even greater stability and capacity. It also features an integrated winch for recovery operations. 

These new design and performance elements all ride on an even more robust and reliable undercarriage as Gehl has added steel-forged hardened sprockets with a corrosion inhibitor for longer life; dual flange idlers in both the front and rear to prevent de-tracking, and reduce vibrations and service; and triple flange rollers to reduce vibration, prevent de-tracking and limit spills. 

Lighting for visibility, jobsite awareness and safety are a primary focus on these new machines. The standard front LED worklights create wide illumination and offer an egress time delay for operators exiting the machine in the dark. Rear work lights and turn signals come standard, with options available for road lights (low beam/high beam/turn signal), hazard lights, and optional side lights tucked under the lift arm.