PERRY, Oklahoma – The Ditch Witch organization, the company that introduced the first compact trencher in 1949, announces the release of a new family of trenchers featuring an unprecedented combination of power, speed, versatility, visibility and maneuverability. The new Zahn series consists of three power units and a set of compatible front ends designed to provide dedicated performance. With up to 30 horses of power, articulated steering and unmatched ground speed, the Zahn series promises to be a breakthrough for the trenching industry.
Among the three power units is the Zahn R150, which company CEO Tiffany Sewell-Howard calls the greatest 15-hp trencher ever made.
“The Zahn R150 is more powerful, more productive, and faster than any trencher in its class,” says Sewell-Howard. “But it is more than just a great trencher. The Zahn is a radical new concept, a brand-new way of thinking about trenching equipment.”
The Zahn R150 power unit includes a 15-hp Honda® gas engine, operator’s console, and an articulation joint. The power unit drives a front-end trencher that is designed to concentrate its weight on the digging chain, so it penetrates the ground easier and enhances overall stability. Unlike compact utility attachments, the Zahn R150 trencher delivers dedicated trenching performance.
The Zahn R150 offers many innovative features, beginning with articulation joint. The Zahn R150’s fully hydraulic, articulated steering provides unmatched maneuverability, enabling the operator to easily trench a curve around trees, swimming pools, and other obstacles that utility workers and landscapers inevitably come across. The Honda gas engine is a new model that is designed to efficiently utilize horsepower and provide outstanding power and performance, and it can operate for hours on end thanks to the Zahn R150’s 11-gallon (41 L) fuel tank.
At only 36 inches (914 mm) wide, the compact Zahn R150 enables the operator to get in, out, and around the tightest jobsites with ease. Its roomy, ride-on platform is designed to absorb shock, minimize fatigue, and keep the operator out of dirt, mud, and debris. Standing on the platform, the operator faces an exceptionally well-designed operator’s console, with soft-touch, color-coded, ergonomic controls that are easy to grip, easy to learn, and provide smooth, easy operation. The platform is elevated, giving operators an unobstructed view of the work, resulting in accurate installations and increased productivity.
Productivity is further enhanced by the Zahn R150’s ground speed. The Zahn R150 has one ground speed that is optimized for trenching. The machine’s cruise control feature locks in the ground speed and minimizes operator fatigue.
“The combination of incredible power, articulation, and compact size makes the Zahn R150 one of the most innovative trenchers ever,” says Kevin Smith, Product Manager for Compact Utility.
The power, compact size, and superior articilating by ability of the Zahn trencher enable the operator to trench a curve around a swimming pool, building or garden as easily as it can trench a swimming line.
Standard Features
¢ Hydraulic drive eliminates maintenance of chains, belts and linkages, and allows the use of a reversible digging chain that helps dislodge rocks and other debris easily.
¢ Accepts chains up to 8 inches (203 mm) wide, so operator can dig trenches for a wide range of applications.
¢ Remote grease fittings are located in one easily accessible spot, minimizing maintenance and downtime.
Optional Features
¢ Patent-pending hydraulic auger runs independent of the headshaft reduces the amount of carryover, increasing productivity.
¢ Roto Witch® that enables boring under sidewalks and other obstacles, reducing jobsite restoration.
The Ditch Witch organization specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality underground construction equipment. The company is a one-stop source for trenchers, vibratory plows, pneumatic piercing tools, backhoes, electronic tracking and locating tools, horizontal directional drilling systems, drill pipe, downhole tools, vacuum excavation systems, excavator-tool carriers, and mini skid steers.
All of these products are recognized around the world for their advanced design, rugged construction, long-term durability, ease of use, and reliability. This product line represents the most complete range of equipment for installing utilities underground.
The Ditch Witch name is one you can trust for your equipment and financial needs. Ditch Witch Financial Services (DWFS) is a full-service provider, offering a wide variety of finance and lease options to meet your individual requirements. For more information about the Zahn R150, please call 800-654-6481 or visit ditchwitch.com.
