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In the world of construction equipment, knowing the manufacturer behind a machine is crucial for ensuring that you get reliable parts, good service, and optimal performance. One machine that often sparks interest is the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL (Compact Track Loader), which has become a valuable tool for many operators due to its versatility and power. But the question many ask is: who manufactures the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL?
The Origins of the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL
The RC-85 Posi-Track CTL is manufactured by Terex (now part of Volvo Construction Equipment). Terex, a company that has been a major player in the construction and mining equipment sector, designed the RC-85 to combine the stability and traction of a tracked loader with the agility and productivity of a compact machine.
Compact track loaders like the RC-85 are often used for tasks where versatility, maneuverability, and durability are key. The tracks provide superior traction in rough or uneven terrain compared to traditional wheeled skid steers, making them ideal for construction, landscaping, and material handling jobs. While the RC-85 is no longer in production as Terex has been acquired by Volvo, it still has a dedicated following due to its rugged design and reliability.
Posi-Track Technology: What Sets It Apart?
One of the key features of the RC-85 is its Posi-Track technology, which is a type of continuous rubber track system. This system helps distribute the machine's weight over a larger surface area, providing better flotation and traction in soft, muddy, or uneven ground conditions. It’s an important feature for those who work in agricultural, forestry, or landscaping industries, where operating on soft or loose soil is common.
Posi-Track machines like the RC-85 are designed with an emphasis on safety and stability, offering operators a smoother ride even in challenging conditions. The tracks are built to be more durable and resistant to wear compared to traditional rubber tracks, which is a huge advantage for contractors who need equipment that can withstand harsh environments.
The RC-85’s Performance and Popularity
The RC-85, despite being out of production, continues to be a sought-after piece of equipment in the used market. Many owners praise its powerful performance and compact size, which allows it to work in tight spaces. The machine’s hydraulic capacity, lifting power, and overall stability make it suitable for a wide range of jobs, from digging and lifting to clearing land and grading.
For example, in construction or demolition, its ability to maneuver in restricted spaces and carry out heavy lifting tasks is a significant advantage. Similarly, operators who work on landscaping projects often prefer the RC-85 for its precision and ability to work on sensitive areas without causing significant damage to the ground.
Moreover, the RC-85’s versatility extends beyond basic lifting and digging. The machine can be paired with various attachments, from augers to trenchers and grapples, allowing it to perform a variety of tasks with ease. This flexibility makes it a great investment for contractors who need a multi-functional piece of machinery.
Terex to Volvo: The Changing Landscape
Terex, once a major player in the compact track loader market, was acquired by Volvo Construction Equipment in 2014. As a result, machines like the RC-85 were absorbed into Volvo’s line of construction equipment. While the RC-85 may no longer be in production, the legacy of Terex machines lives on in the modern lineups offered by Volvo.
Volvo continues to produce compact track loaders under its brand, including the EC950F and the EC950F Crawler. These machines carry forward the core principles of the RC-85: durability, stability, and versatility. Operators who were fond of the RC-85 may find these newer models to be a worthy successor, offering even more advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and environmental performance.
The Evolution of Compact Track Loaders
The development of compact track loaders, or CTLs, has been marked by improvements in both design and function. The RC-85 was an important part of this evolution, as it combined the traditional skid steer’s ability to handle smaller loads with the increased mobility and traction provided by tracks. Over the years, manufacturers have continued to refine the design of CTLs, focusing on improved lifting capacity, operator comfort, and fuel efficiency.
One of the major innovations in recent years has been the shift toward more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient models, with a greater emphasis on emissions reductions. Volvo, for example, has integrated Stage V compliant engines in its CTL range, helping operators meet stringent environmental standards while still benefiting from the power and performance they need.
Why People Still Love the RC-85
Despite being an older model, the RC-85 still commands respect in the industry. Operators who have used this machine often talk about its robust design, impressive lifting power, and the smoothness of its operation. Many appreciate the Posi-Track system, which improves traction and stability even on rough or muddy surfaces.
One operator, who worked on a large construction project in the Pacific Northwest, shared how the RC-85 performed admirably when it came to moving large amounts of dirt on uneven terrain. He mentioned that it handled the mud and slopes with ease, which made him trust the machine over other models he had used before. The ability to operate in such harsh conditions is one of the main reasons many people still swear by the RC-85.
Maintaining the RC-85 Posi-Track
Given that the RC-85 is no longer in production, maintaining it requires a bit more effort than newer models. Operators who are familiar with the machine often recommend sticking to the original maintenance schedules and using quality parts to keep the machine running smoothly. Thankfully, Volvo’s takeover of Terex has made it easier for owners to source parts, as Volvo continues to support machines from the Terex era.
Regular checks on the Posi-Track system are essential to ensure that the tracks are in good condition. Ensuring proper alignment and tension of the tracks can extend their lifespan and ensure the loader runs efficiently. Hydraulic systems should also be regularly maintained, as they are crucial to the performance of the machine.
Conclusion: A Reliable Workhorse in Today’s Market
In conclusion, while the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL is no longer being manufactured, its legacy as a durable, powerful, and versatile compact track loader continues to make it a sought-after model. With its Posi-Track system and strong lifting capacity, it remains a popular choice for contractors who need reliability in tough working conditions. Though newer models from Volvo have taken its place, the RC-85 still stands as a testament to Terex's design expertise and the enduring value of compact track loaders.
The Origins of the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL
The RC-85 Posi-Track CTL is manufactured by Terex (now part of Volvo Construction Equipment). Terex, a company that has been a major player in the construction and mining equipment sector, designed the RC-85 to combine the stability and traction of a tracked loader with the agility and productivity of a compact machine.
Compact track loaders like the RC-85 are often used for tasks where versatility, maneuverability, and durability are key. The tracks provide superior traction in rough or uneven terrain compared to traditional wheeled skid steers, making them ideal for construction, landscaping, and material handling jobs. While the RC-85 is no longer in production as Terex has been acquired by Volvo, it still has a dedicated following due to its rugged design and reliability.
Posi-Track Technology: What Sets It Apart?
One of the key features of the RC-85 is its Posi-Track technology, which is a type of continuous rubber track system. This system helps distribute the machine's weight over a larger surface area, providing better flotation and traction in soft, muddy, or uneven ground conditions. It’s an important feature for those who work in agricultural, forestry, or landscaping industries, where operating on soft or loose soil is common.
Posi-Track machines like the RC-85 are designed with an emphasis on safety and stability, offering operators a smoother ride even in challenging conditions. The tracks are built to be more durable and resistant to wear compared to traditional rubber tracks, which is a huge advantage for contractors who need equipment that can withstand harsh environments.
The RC-85’s Performance and Popularity
The RC-85, despite being out of production, continues to be a sought-after piece of equipment in the used market. Many owners praise its powerful performance and compact size, which allows it to work in tight spaces. The machine’s hydraulic capacity, lifting power, and overall stability make it suitable for a wide range of jobs, from digging and lifting to clearing land and grading.
For example, in construction or demolition, its ability to maneuver in restricted spaces and carry out heavy lifting tasks is a significant advantage. Similarly, operators who work on landscaping projects often prefer the RC-85 for its precision and ability to work on sensitive areas without causing significant damage to the ground.
Moreover, the RC-85’s versatility extends beyond basic lifting and digging. The machine can be paired with various attachments, from augers to trenchers and grapples, allowing it to perform a variety of tasks with ease. This flexibility makes it a great investment for contractors who need a multi-functional piece of machinery.
Terex to Volvo: The Changing Landscape
Terex, once a major player in the compact track loader market, was acquired by Volvo Construction Equipment in 2014. As a result, machines like the RC-85 were absorbed into Volvo’s line of construction equipment. While the RC-85 may no longer be in production, the legacy of Terex machines lives on in the modern lineups offered by Volvo.
Volvo continues to produce compact track loaders under its brand, including the EC950F and the EC950F Crawler. These machines carry forward the core principles of the RC-85: durability, stability, and versatility. Operators who were fond of the RC-85 may find these newer models to be a worthy successor, offering even more advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and environmental performance.
The Evolution of Compact Track Loaders
The development of compact track loaders, or CTLs, has been marked by improvements in both design and function. The RC-85 was an important part of this evolution, as it combined the traditional skid steer’s ability to handle smaller loads with the increased mobility and traction provided by tracks. Over the years, manufacturers have continued to refine the design of CTLs, focusing on improved lifting capacity, operator comfort, and fuel efficiency.
One of the major innovations in recent years has been the shift toward more eco-friendly and fuel-efficient models, with a greater emphasis on emissions reductions. Volvo, for example, has integrated Stage V compliant engines in its CTL range, helping operators meet stringent environmental standards while still benefiting from the power and performance they need.
Why People Still Love the RC-85
Despite being an older model, the RC-85 still commands respect in the industry. Operators who have used this machine often talk about its robust design, impressive lifting power, and the smoothness of its operation. Many appreciate the Posi-Track system, which improves traction and stability even on rough or muddy surfaces.
One operator, who worked on a large construction project in the Pacific Northwest, shared how the RC-85 performed admirably when it came to moving large amounts of dirt on uneven terrain. He mentioned that it handled the mud and slopes with ease, which made him trust the machine over other models he had used before. The ability to operate in such harsh conditions is one of the main reasons many people still swear by the RC-85.
Maintaining the RC-85 Posi-Track
Given that the RC-85 is no longer in production, maintaining it requires a bit more effort than newer models. Operators who are familiar with the machine often recommend sticking to the original maintenance schedules and using quality parts to keep the machine running smoothly. Thankfully, Volvo’s takeover of Terex has made it easier for owners to source parts, as Volvo continues to support machines from the Terex era.
Regular checks on the Posi-Track system are essential to ensure that the tracks are in good condition. Ensuring proper alignment and tension of the tracks can extend their lifespan and ensure the loader runs efficiently. Hydraulic systems should also be regularly maintained, as they are crucial to the performance of the machine.
Conclusion: A Reliable Workhorse in Today’s Market
In conclusion, while the RC-85 Posi-Track CTL is no longer being manufactured, its legacy as a durable, powerful, and versatile compact track loader continues to make it a sought-after model. With its Posi-Track system and strong lifting capacity, it remains a popular choice for contractors who need reliability in tough working conditions. Though newer models from Volvo have taken its place, the RC-85 still stands as a testament to Terex's design expertise and the enduring value of compact track loaders.
