Latest from Babcock is the new four-model SDLG H-Series range of wheel loaders. The range follows hard on the heels of the 2024 launch of the four-model line-up of SDLG excavators, highlighting Babcock’s commitment to providing a comprehensive range of solutions to the ‘value’ segment of the equipment market in Southern Africa.
Following last year’s launch of the H-Series range of SDLG excavators – comprising the 6-tonne (t), 13-t, 21-t and 34-t class machines – Babcock is further strengthening the SDLG product line-up with the introduction of the new H-Series wheel loaders.
The new range comprises the L918H (1,8 t), the L938H (3,5 t), the L946H (4 t) and the L958H (5,8 t). Mark Senyard, Product Manager – SDLG at Babcock, says the arrival of the new H-Series wheel loaders ushers in a new era for customers across applications, including construction, agriculture and mining.
Compact models
Owing to their compact build, the new 1,8-t L918H and its 3,5-t counterpart, the L938H, are well-suited for construction, especially in urban environments or areas with limited space. Their smaller size and manoeuvrability make them ideal for tasks such as material handling, loading and clearing debris in confined spaces, while still offering the power and versatility of larger wheel loaders.
With a 6,7-t operating weight, the L918H has a rated 1,8-t payload. To maximise the machine’s versatility, Babcock is offering this model in a special configuration, which includes a quick hitch bucket and forks. The quick hitch system, explains Senyard, enables efficient use of multiple attachments with one machine, making it versatile and cost-effective. In addition, it significantly speeds up attachment changes, reducing downtime and improving productivity.
The forklift attachment on the loader maximises its versatility. In construction, the machine can be deployed beyond the normal loading duties. The forks, explains Senyard, allow it to be used for handling palletised loads and other general material handling tasks where a bucket might not be ideal. They enhance versatility by allowing the loader to perform tasks similar to a forklift, but with the added benefits of a wheel loader.
With an operating weight of 11,5 t, the SDLG L938H offers a rated payload of 3,5 t. “This model is available in two configurations. Firstly, we offer it with a standard, general-purpose 2,1 m³ bucket. Secondly, as with the smaller L918H, the L938H is also available with a special quick hitch bucket system and forks. The machine also comes standard with piping for hydraulic attachments,” explains Senyard.
Larger models
The other two models in the range are the larger L946H and the L958H. With a13-t operating weight, the L946H is rated at 4-t payload and is ideally suited for municipal operations. Here, says Senyard, it can be deployed to undertake various tasks, including loading, transporting and moving materials such as gravel, sand, dirt, debris and waste. The machine can also find application in site preparation and demolition.
With a 17,6 t operating weight, the L958H offers a rated 5,8-t payload. While this machine can still be deployed on large infrastructure projects, Senyard says it will largely find application in the quarrying / mining sector. The machine casts a special design focus on reliability. For example, the main drive and hub reduction use dual seals with good sealing effect and strong bearing capacity, thus maximising reliability.
Service contracts and finance
To offer customers peace of mind, the new wheel loaders are available with tailored service contracts. Babcock’s service contracts offer numerous benefits, including cost savings through planned maintenance, reduced risk of component failure and increased machine uptime. They also provide access to the latest product updates and OEM-approved parts and oils, ensuring peak machine performance and longevity.
Babcock’s service contracts are designed to increase productivity for customers, while protecting the residual value of owners’ machinery and transferring risks associated with maintenance away from the customer. Often tailored to specific customer needs, these service contracts ensure that equipment is maintained to optimal standards, while reducing the likelihood of unexpected costly repairs.
“By using genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, we maintain the machines in peak operating condition. Our service contracts ensure that the customer’s assets deliver the required productivity and availability, while optimising performance and efficiency of the equipment. In addition, the benefit of machine longevity cannot be stated enough,” says Senyard.