New six-wheel drive grapple skidder from Tigercat

The new 615C grapple skidder from Tigercat is sure to grab the attention of loggers around the globe.

Tigercat’s 615C grapple skidder was released at Demo 2012. It is slightly smaller than its big brother, the Tigercat 635D grapple skidder, as it is aimed at the market segment which requires a skidder with a slightly lower annual production capacity, and proportionately lower capital costs. However, it possesses the same excellent traction and stability on steep and difficult terrain. The rear bogie axle can be fitted with bandtracks to increase traction and stability even further. Even though it is smaller than the 635D, the 615C still delivers 164 kW (220 hp) of power at 2,200 rpm. Some of the features of the new skidder are as follows:
 

• Hydrostatic drive combined with electronic engine control – The 615C has automatic variable engine speed for good fuel efficiency. Wheel spin is also minimised on steep terrain.
• Powerful Cummins Tier III engine – The operator controls the maximum speed setting.
• Electronic computer control system – All machine functions have precise control.
• High capacity cooling system – The fan has an automatic variable pitch which reduces fuel consumption.
• Six-wheel drive – Resulting in lower ground pressure, good traction, excellent pulling power and favourable stability.
• Tigercat Turnaround seat – Steering is ergonomically superior due to joystick steering and a full rear-facing drive control. The end results are reduced cycle times and less operator fatigue.
• Long-life centre section – Due to thick steel plates, large pins and tapered roller bearings.
• Service access – Facilitated by a spacious engine enclosure and a tilt cab for access to pumps, motors and the driveline.
• Cab – low sound levels, climate control and good visibility to all wheels.
• Large dual cylinder grapples – The arch allows good visibility to the load, and wide tip-to-tip openings to gather scattered bunches.

The key specs are included in the table below, with comparisons to the existing 635D 6x6 skidder.