"The Cat® TH406 and TH 407 Telehandlers feature a number of new systems and designs to enhance performance, promote operator efficiency and machine productivity, expand versatility and keep service time and costs to a minimum. Both machines have a rated load capacity of 8,100 pounds (3700 kilograms). Each also has a two-section boom, delivering a 20-foot (6.1-meter) lift height on the TH406 and a 24-foot (7.3-meter) lift height on the TH407. The new telehandlers replace the TH220B and the TH330B in the Caterpillar line.

Both telehandlers are powered by the Cat C4.4 diesel engine, which meets U.S. EPA Tier 3 emissions requirements. The turbocharged, aftercooled engine is available in a mechanically controlled configuration, which produces 100 horsepower (74.5 kW), and in an electronically controlled configuration, which produces 125 horsepower (93.1 kW).

The power train also features a limited slip differential fitted in the front axle. The system enables the telehandler to work in difficult underfoot conditions, and it engages automatically so that the operator can focus on getting work done. The powersynchro transmission and unique torque converter drive system ensures long, trouble-free life in tough applications. The advanced cooling system with optional reversing fan delivers excellent performance in all conditions.

The new Cat telehandlers incorporate load sensing hydraulics for superior lifting and digging forces and for the ability to operate all three boom functions simultaneously and proportionally. Smoother, logical control of the boom and work tool enables the operator to do more, more efficiently and more accurately. The new telehandlers also feature Z-bar linkage and greater breakout force for stronger digging performance compared to the previous models.
Building modern roads would be rather difficult without motor graders. One of the reasons we have such good highways is because of the work done by motor graders. They put the finish on the foundations of our roads.

When we drive along a highway, what we see is the finished product. What we don't see is what is sitting below the road's surface. In most cases, bulldozers and loaders work together to cut out a rough road. Motor graders then come in and cut that rough road back to a level and smooth base. If road base or other materials need to be added, it is the grader that levels this out, once again to a smooth surface.

I said that motor graders provide a level surface. This is not quite right. All roads have a slight slope to them. This slope is very precise since it is designed to help cars stay on the road yet encourage water to quickly run off the road. Motor graders use laser technology to get that precise slope in the road's foundation.

Motor grader operators are amongst the elite when it comes to heavy equipment operations. The position is well paid when compared to other operations, the work more precise and hence more challenging, and they are a part of a well oiled team that steadily builds our highways.

Becoming a motor grader operator is not that difficult. Complete a heavy equipment operator training course that includes motor grader skills then hit the workplace to put your new skills into practice. Before you know it, you will be one of the elite operators on a construction team - leading the way to providing us with first class roads to drive on.