Joystick control

US-based VT Leeboy has launched its new 705 Motor Grader with joystick control. The right and left hand joysticks are built-in to the operator's chair and control all grader functions. The control console has a touch pad colour screen with basic instrumentation and menu-driven diagnostic capabilities.

The 17000 lbs (7.72 tonnes) features a 10 ft (3.05 m) sliding and tilting moldboard and is powered by a 117 hp (87 kW) CAT Tier 3 compliant diesel engine. The 6-speed forward and 3-speed reverse power shift hydrostatic transmission has a top speed going forward of 20 mph (32 km).

The 705 features wet disc brakes and a hydraulic release fail safe parking brake.

Operator comfort comes via the 705's climate-controlled cab, with improved visibility over the previous model thanks to +10% more glass area. The cab is mounted on isolation pads to reduce noise and vibration.

In addition, a solar roof panel provides power to a separate cooling fan in the cab. The fan automatically cycles on and off when the 705 is not in use and sitting in the hot sun.

The 705's 10 foot (3.05 m) sliding and tilting moldboard features an 18" (457 mm) right or left side shift and shoulder reach of 36" (915 mm), allowing the operator to shift the blade in or out of hard to reach areas. The enclosed turntable is maintenance friendly and protects the wear parts from the elements.

A rear mounted 72" (1.83 m) scarifier with slots for up to 9 ripping teeth makes quick work of compacted soils to be graded.