The new D-Series includes pilot-operated joystick controls for the backhoe on every 420D and 430D. These controls are similar to hydraulic excavator controls, making the system easier to learn and use by operators while allowing smooth efficient operation, according to Caterpillar. The 420D and 430D integrated tool carriers utilize full pilot control of all hydraulic functions while the 416D only uses low effort pilot hydraulic stabilizer controls. "There are three main benefits to the new pilot control hydraulic systems," said Carman. "Lever effort is reduced and machine control is more precise, allowing operators to be more efficient. The new joystick control layout provides improved operator ergonomics and also greater visibility of the backhoe itself, allowing the operator to better see the digging."

Major overseas suppliers for the small, compact machines include Kubota from Japan and Ingersoll-Rand, which acquired SuperStay in the Czech Republic two years ago. Ingersoll--Rand now imports the SuperStay machines (sold previously under the EarthForce America brand name) and sells the machines under its own name as well as the Bobcat brand. In 2002, 1R and Bobcat accounted for about 9 percent of the small backhoe market -- that in the first year of marketing. In 2003, Ingersoll-Rand and Bobcat will very likely start taking share away from the leaders, which will alter the makeup of the market within 12 to 18 months. Going back to the standard backhoes, it is interesting to note that Case, Deere and Caterpillar (in that order) are still the major stakeholders in North America. New Holland also has a strong market position. These four companies accounted for over 85 percent market share in 2002, down a trifle from years past. Terex became a more active player in the marketplace in 2002, jumping from a 2 percent market position in 2001 to a 5 percent participant in 2002. Terex used a very aggressive pricing scheme to gain market share during the year, which apparently worked successfully. I believe the Terex product line, which is well-engineered, is going to be better known in the future.

When we last looked at mini-backhoe loaders several years ago, the market for these machines was under 4000 units annually, but growing. Today, suppliers are selling over 6000 units and the demand keeps rolling along. The companies involved in mini-backhoes include Terramite, Allmand Brothers, Dig-It, EarthForce, Ingersoll Equipment, Kubota and Waldon. Two companies - Lely, which sold Kioti backhoes and K-D Manitou, the French manufacturer- dropped out of the market in 1999. Terramite is the recognized leader in this product and is the largest producer in the world. The company, founded in 1965, has been a family-owned, global business since its beginning. The Charleston, W.Va., company offers three models - the T5C, T5D and T6. The T5C has been around for 10 years, the T6 was introduced in 1997 and the T5D was just added in 1999. Digging depth on the smaller models is about 8 ft., while the larger T6 has a dig depth of 10 ft.

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