Sales of tractors with front-end loaders in the heavier power bracket have begun a long, slow decline with producers instead buying articulated telehandlers and wheel loaders
The Doosan DL200 wheel loader is an ideal entry-level model for farm work. The DL200 weighs in at 11,300kg and has a dump height of 2.73m (8.95ft).
When it was updated in 2012 it was armed with a fully automatic power shift ZF transmission with directional and kick-down control to increase
productivity. There is a 4F/3R shift range for the transmission.
A big plus that operators noticed at the time was a greatly improved cab. Inside the cab was an updated dashboard keypad, improved visibility and included an adjustable steering column for more legroom.
Other upgrades included a high visibility central indicator panel that allows the operator to check essential loader functions.
Adding to its list of credentials was a Tier III Doosan DL06 6-cylinder engine that gives a great power range up to 107kW (143hp).
The engine has two work modes with power or economy. With 4-valves each cylinder and electronic control, combustion is optimised but with reduced emissions.
Increased torque and a generous torque reserve allow efficient use of power by the hydraulic system. Top speed is an impressive 35kph.
The transmission has three modes of operation, being Manual, Automatic – with automatic shift for all gears and Semi Automatic – automatic with a kick down for first gear.
Hydraulic power steering is another good addition as it ensures smooth steering even in the low engine speed ranges.
The hydraulic system consists of a triple gear pump. While offered as standard are automatic functions for positioning the bucket for digging as well as stopping the boom at the desired height position. A simple
levelling function is also standard.
The hydraulic control valve has a third port for powering an auxiliary hydraulic function, with the circuit offering a maximum flow of 88+88-lit/min at 200bar.
Doosan has designed the DL200 to offer optimum traction force under all working conditions.
In particular this model is designed for quick penetration and optimum bucket filling at each cycle. There is an adequate 2.0-cubic/m (2.62 cu.yd) bucket capacity.
The DL200 is fitted with Z lifting geometry that is robust and especially designed for heavy loads.
This also enables very rapid bucket movements and ensures corrected angle positioning in all situations. The rapid bucket dump capability makes it easier to unload sticky material.
Limited slip diffs are fitted on both the front and rear axles to ensures maximum tractive effortless driving over muddy ground. It also reduces the risk of skidding and at the same time, prevents uneven tyre wear.
An optional quick coupler configuration for the general-purpose bucket or pallet fork allows for very efficient coupling configurations and is worth adding to this model.
While the optional Doosan load-stabiliser system is ideal for all loading and movement situations and increases operator control. It also minimises the amount of material spilt during travelling.
The Doosan DL200 is built to last. For the main structural components such as the chassis, the joints and the lifting arm DOOSAN has subjecting these structures to intensive testing.
Doosan is distributed by Clark Equipment, for model availability call on tel: 03 8795 8535.
