hello everyone, got a question about my 1985 Case W20C wheel loader. Love the old machine, owned it since 2004, installed new 504bd engine and haven't had problems since. I recently purchased a surplus military trailer, and am having it transported from Maryland to my place in Oklahoma. Trying to decide whether to build a ramp(dock) to unload the trailer when it arrives or just lift it off the flatbed trailer with the loader. Trailer is a Stewart/Stevenson M1082a1 and weighs 7310 lbs. I looked up a brochure on the Case website and found some specs. My W20C has a cab, rear counterweights, 2.5 cubic yd. bucket, and fenders. I have added backup rippers, so I figure I can subtract 300-400 lbs. lifting capacity. Here is a link to the Case brochure: http://www.casece.com/en_us/Gallery...C/cce_WL_W Series_W20C_specs_06-26-2009_3.pdf It states operating load is 7617, rated load is 6800 lbs. , SAE tipping load is 17,128 lbs. I would like some opinions on whether you think my loader will pick the trailer off of a 5 foot tall flatbed safely, or not. I have considerable experience with this machine, and full faith in it. I have lifted heavier things with it than 7400 lbs. but never weighed them. Please let me know what you think.
Forks? Or off bucket? I think if you had forks and just held it high enough for driver to pull out from it you shouldn't have a problem! It might not work with a POB due to the height and tipping point.
Actually with rear ripper weight it should be more stable (additional counterweight)
if it balanced well it should be no problem
Don't have a rear ripper. I built some back-up rippers and welded them on the back heel of the bucket. Mine has the largest bucket, 2.5 cu. yd. I do however have factory counterweights on the back. Thought about placing my Deere 455g bucket lip on the back of the W20c for a redneck counterweight, but doing so would cause complications of not being able to back up if any other items are on the freight trailer. I can build a dock quite easily.