KESLA has shown off two new tractor loaders for the first time.
The 224 and 324 were unveiled during the Finnish forestry show FinnMetko, with the former promising 'more power' and the latter aimed at the Central European market.
The manufacturer also used the trade show to introduce a "completely revamped high seat" for its timber cranes.
With an outreach of seven metres and seven per cent more lifting power compared to its predecessor, the 224 is said to be a "versatile machine that is suitable for both local forest management and contract work, thanks to its size".
The loader’s pressure demand is a mere 190 bar. The folding mechanism has been modified to reduce the consumption of oil per working cycle, while also providing a significantly higher folding power.
The hose system is overall neater than in the previous models. The slewing device base has been redesigned similar to the 320 series, ensuring the clearest possible visibility to the load space and excellent hose protection. The filter has been installed in the slewing device base to make its replacement significantly easier.
The 224 loader has three valve options: traditional, mechanical and Kesla’s new electric control valve. The loader can be installed to a trailer (Kesla 104, 114) tow bar, a tractor’s three-point hitch or a tractor frame with an adapter.
Meanwhile, the second loader introduced at FinnMetko, the 324, is a completely new model that is part of the 320 series.
It is a single extension loader with an extraordinary outreach of 7.35 metres. The loader has an "unrivalled lifting capacity": the gross lifting torque of 81.6 kNm is achieved with a pressure of 190 bar. This strong single-extension crane has been designed with the needs of the Central European market in mind.
A Kesla press release added: "Sturdy and protective service platforms have been installed on top of the slewing device with an electrical switchboard and an access point for control valve hydraulics integrated next to them.
"Access to the control valve for maintenance is easier than before, as the valve cover opens like a bonnet.
"The boom system’s hoses are well protected, making the loader suitable for challenging working conditions. The replacement of hoses has been made easy and effortless. All the greasing points have two nipples, which makes greasing possible in any position.
"The boom geometry has been designed to meet the wishes of Central European customers. The compact loader fits small load spaces and is ideal for narrow thinning areas and cramped urban spaces."
The loader can be installed using a tractor’s frame adapter or trailer tow bar, and is compatible with the likes of the Kesla 114, 124 or 144 product families.
Both loaders are now available to buy from Kesla dealers.
Meanwhile, the high seat will be made available for all Kesla timber handling cranes by the end of 2024. The frame, guard rails, seat and electrical equipment of the high seat have been completely redesigned.
The new, comfortable seat (Seat US20 HD PVC) is equipped with a high back, armrests, adjustable suspension, a seat warmer and, naturally, an OPS switch and seat belt. A motorised seat folding system for easy transport is available as an accessory.
The manufacturer also used FinnMetko to introduce a new multi-purpose forest trailer and a series of harvester head improvements.
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