Mecalac multifunctional compact loaders
By Adam Freill
Construction EquipmentNew line of multifunctional compact loaders brings features of compact loaders to machines the size of skid steers.
(Photo courtesy of Mecalac)
Mecalac’s new line of multifunctional compact loaders is comprised of six models, including the MCL2, MCL4, MCL4+, MCL6, MCL6+ and MCL8. The series is aimed at a variety of industries, ranging from agriculture to landscape, forestry, snow removal, utility and construction, bringing features of compact loaders to a machine the size of a skid steer.
New hydraulic and maneuverability options in the lineup, such as M-Drive and Speed Control, aim to provide versatility for the machines in terms of both application and industry. These features allow the loader to function as a tool carrier, providing control of RPM by hand throttle and speed via a foot pedal. The manufacturer says this enables more precise and controlled operation of a wide variety of hydraulic attachments.
Both Speed Control and M-Drive come standard on the MCL6 and MCL8 models and are options for the MCL2 and MCL4 models.
Each machine in the series has an option for auxiliary hydraulic lines on the boom and at the rear, as well as 12V 3 pole plugs, further enhancing versatility by allowing the ability to use hydraulic attachments on either end of the machine. The series is designed to maximize attachment possibilities with 7.9 gpm flow on the MCL2 and MCL4 models and 15.9 gpm flow on the MCL6 and MCL8 models.
The MCL4+ and MCL6+ models come standard with a short boom, which offers a better tipping load, whereas the other four models come with a long¬ ¬¬— standard — boom which maximizes tipping height.
The machines are compatible with a wide range of attachments, including pallet forks, multi-purpose buckets, augers, mowers, snow blades, and more.
The MCL series’ height-to-width-to-length ratio was engineered for agility on a jobsite. Each machine has a 45-degree articulation that keeps the front wheels traveling in the same path as the rear wheels while driving. A 10-degree oscillation allows a strong follow-up and maximum traction wherever the machine might travel, including on uneven ground. The MCL2 and 4 models have a 25-horsepower engine, with travel speeds up to 7 mph for the MCL2, and 12 mph for MCL4 and 4+. The remaining models come with a 49-horsepower engine and travel up to 12 mph with an included option for travel speeds up to 19 mph.
Each machine in the MCL series offers easy transportability between jobsites with low transport weight, which ranges between 3,836-6,283 pounds and minimal width, which ranges from 3-feet-4-inches to 4-feet-4-inches, depending on tire selection.
Customization options for the MCL series allow customers to tailor the machine to their specific operation. A start-up digicode incorporates a keypad that offers the owner tracking and monitoring capabilities by allowing the ability to assign a specific code for each operator. The digicode also minimizes the risk of theft. Each machine is available in three versions: canopy, canopy with foldable top or a cab version.
