Xtreme XRM 1157-Extremely Competitive - Part 2
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May 5, 2004 - Starting from scratch, Xtreme Manufacturing, Las Vegas, Nev., has developed its telehandlers with two key goals: to be economical to own and productive to operate. The manufacturer has close ties to one of the largest independently-owned rental companies in North America, which is the driving force behind creating a machine that provides low cost of ownership.
Productivity, on the other hand, is an end-user's concern. Visibility, speed of operation, convenience of controls, and maneuverability are all issues to be considered.
To review how the XRM 1157 offers low total cost of ownership, go to Part 1 of this story.
In the cab
Operator comfort and positioning is directly related to achieving good visibility. At 7'11," the XRM 1157 has a very low profile, even in comparison with smaller class machines. This allows the cab to be situated low to the ground. Combined with a large cab opening, getting in and out of the cab is easy.
The standard full-suspension operator's seat features multi-position adjustability, making it very comfortable. From this position, looking up through the roof of the ROPS/FOPS canopy, flat steel cross bars are angled like window blinds slats, improving skyward visibility. This feature makes it easier to spot the load and to read the two-dimensional boom angle indicator. See Image 2.
The biggest blind spot on most telehandlers is looking to the rear from the operator's seat. But as I looked over my shoulder and used the three rear view mirrors, I was impressed with the visibility afforded me on the XRM 1157.
Full-pressure mechanical over hydraulic HAWE Hydraulics boom controls provide precise, positive control to the operator. I immediately recognized how smooth and responsive these controls are. Confidence in the boom control system is aided by the beefy, full-pressure, multi-function joystick. See Image 3. The taller stick is for the full pressure lift and lower control, while the shorter stick controls the electro/hydraulic carriage tilt and frame leveling (sway).
The joysticks are mounted to an adjustable steel panel. With as much as 4.5 inches of movement in the joystick panel, the angle and position of the controls can be matched to almost any operator's size and posture. This feature was first developed by CareLift Equipment Limited, Breslau , Ontario . In addition, the top of the sway-control joystick is curved in a way that cradles the operator's wrist. This allows experienced operators to simultaneous manipulation of the sway and lift/lower. See Image 4. My only complaint is that the right arm rest, intentionally made of a hard material, is less than comfortable.
Other highlights inside the cab include a scratch-resistant cover over the control panel, a cup holder, and 12-volt power outlet and cell phone holder. This last item makes great sense when you consider how much walkie-talkie style phones are used by crews on the job. The operation manual is located in a weather-tight enclosure just behind the operator's right elbow. Additionally, dual driving lights and a back-up light are standard equipment.
Under the hood
The 122-hp turbo-charged Perkins model 1104C diesel engine supplies adequate power to scoot the nearly 35,000-pound unit around any job site. It is mated to a smooth shifting Carraro four-speed powershift transmission that propels the XRM 1157 to more than 20 mph. Carraro axles afford up to a 55-degree turning angle, but due to the XRM 1157's long wheelbase, the telehandler is limited to a 45-degree turning angle. Nevertheless, the unit delivers a competitive 12'2" outside turning radius.
The obligatory two-wheel, 4-wheel, and crab steering system is standard. Note, however, that Xtreme Manufacturing also offers a two-wheel steer option on the rear axle, which provides limited rear-pivot steering capabilities.
The service brake system incorporates two circuits-one for the front axle and one for the rear. Each has its own brake accumulator to keep the circuits properly charged at all times. The accumulator's actuate inboard wet disk brakes. If brake pressure drops below 1,000 psi, a dash-mounted light illuminates to notify the operator. The parking brake is spring-applied, hydraulically released.
Equipped with a fairly common rear-axle stabilization system, the rear axle floats ±10 degrees when traveling. Once the boom is raised above 42 degrees, the rear axle automatically locks in position. An electronic proximity sensor mounted on the boom activates the boom elevation interlock, which can be overridden two ways. By shifting the transmission into the gear the axle will float, or if you are stationary and want to sway the frame, you can depress a small red button on the front side of the sway control joystick. This permits frame tilt at a reduced speed.
For a closer look at the 11,000-pound capacity telehandler's overall reach capabilities, refer to the Reach Chart. Auxiliary hydraulics built into the boom facilitate the use of powered attachments.
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Brand |
Gradall |
Sky Trak |
Xtreme |
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Model |
544D10-55 |
10054 |
XRM1157 |
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Base unit price |
$127,500.00 |
$126,000.00 |
$137,292.00 |
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48" carriage |
$1,480.00 |
$1,650.00 |
$1,200.00 |
|
48" forks |
$970.00 |
$1,800.00 |
$900.00 |
|
Foam filled tires |
$3,400.00 |
$4,850.00 |
Standard |
|
List price |
$133,350.00 |
$134,300.00 |
$139,392.00 |
Although Don Ahern admits that Xtreme's telehandlers are not intended to meet a price point, when compared with competitive models, you can see that the XRM 1157 isn't that far out of range. For comparison purposes, the cost for foam-filled tires, an optional feature on competitive models, was included in the equation.
Likes
- Overall design includes a variety of innovative and common sense features that add up to superb visibility.
- Low stowed height affords excellent maneuverability.
- The unit features robust construction and appears easy to service.
Dislikes
- At 34,000 pounds, the XRM 1157 is no lightweight.
- The battery cover needs a lock to prevent theft.
- The firm arm rest is a little hard on the elbow.
Verdict
First-hand knowledge of the needs of equipment owners translates into a telehandler that should be economical to own and productive to operate.
