H66 Dixie Special - Nimble and Powerful

The Ranger H67 usually gets most of the attention. But let's not forget about the other great skidder in the H series family, the H66 Dixie Special. With 174 HP, the H66DS has plenty of power. But with its shorter wheelbase, the H66DS brings big advantages where maneuverability is important. Thinning operations and congested side slopes are areas where the H66DS can really play to its strengths.

The H66DS uses almost identical components with its larger cousin. The drive train is the same, up to the axles. The H66 retains the original Clark axles with outboard planetary gears, while H67 now features Funk axles.

Hydraulic systems are virtually the same on both machines. They both use the same well-proven gear-type main pump, which is less susceptible to contamination in the hydraulic oil. Cooling systems and cabs are identical on both skidders.

The real differences show up in the length dimensions. The H66DS, with a wheelbase of 128 inches, is 22 inches shorter than H67 Series II, with its extended wheelbase now at 150 inches. Overall length is 21 inches less on H66DS, at 246 inches compared to 267 inches on H67 Series II. This compact size adds up to big advantages in maneuverability.

Let's compare the H66DS and the H67 grapple skidders with ESCO Hi-Vis arch, to see how they match up:

The numbers confirm it-lots of power in a compact package.

Just like the H67, the H66DS has recently been updated to Series II. Take a look at these key updates that increase customer value:

Hydraulic System

Hoses: The Ranger H66DS now uses Parker 471ST hoses for the steering and the grapple system. These hoses provide superior abrasion resistance and are more durable while at the same time have a smaller diameter. The Cordura sleeve is no longer required.

Bulkhead fittings: To help reduce the time required to remove and replace steering and grapple hoses, the H66DS now has a bulkhead where hose sections can be connected easily. The steering hoses are reached through the front access hatch. The grapple hoses are accessible through the rear hatch.

Service brakes: The service brakes are now operated through an independent hydraulic system with a master cylinder. The operator gains greater confidence that the brakes will function totally independently of the hydraulic system.

Cab

Several small enhancements total up to a much improved cab that will please the operator greatly. The most important changes are the tilt steering wheel and the wider steps.

Tilt steer: The steering wheel now can be adjusted up or down through an angle of 40 degrees. Operators really appreciate this feature.

Wider steps: The top step to the cab is now 6 inches wider. This helps reduce the effort climbing in and out of the machine. In addition, the grapple controls are set flush, and the battery disconnect switch is relocated to be more accessible.

Cooling System

The new radiator in the H66DS represents a major advance in delivering lower operating temperatures. Lower temperatures lead very directly to a longer operating life of all major components. This new radiator has three independent cooling systems located side-by-side, for the engine coolant, transmission-torque converter oil, and the hydraulic oil.

Grapple

Snubber: The snubber has been redesigned to provide greater contact area with the mating tabs, for a more reliable mounting. In addition, the new snubber friction material is fiber reinforced and more resistant to grease and oil, to provide much longer life.

Arch guard: This new guard provides better protection for hydraulic hoses, fuel tank, and cab.

The H66DS skidder brings key advantages to your customers looking for lots of power in a smaller package. The opportunities are out there--win more of them with the Ranger H66DS Series II skidders.