Published in the December 2009 Coal USA Magazine

The company took its rubber-tired new release to September’s Bluefield Coal Show in West Virginia, where the first major industry crowd got to view the rugged tractor with a fifth-wheel hitch that provides mines with a more efficient and comprehensive way to transport materials, supplies and equipment.

Ideally designed for use in slope-graded operations and in mines where seam heights measure at least 6 feet, the Workhorse permissible diesel-powered tractor has a 140 cubic foot capacity center eject bucket and optional bucket sizes, and is equipped with 44in tires.

Also featured are John Deere 1400 series inboard planetary axles with internal wet disc brakes and a differential lock that is hydraulically controlled.

The Fairchild 35C-WHPDT unit, with ground clearance ranges from 12-14in, meets all inby requirements of the US Mine Safety and Health Administration.

The power unit includes an MSHA-approved Cummins C8.3, 150hp engine as well as a DST dry scrubber package to perform exhaust treatments, and its Dana/Clark powershift transmission assembly gives the unit four speeds forward and reverse.

Fairchild International produces both battery and diesel-powered scoops, and also manufactures continuous miners and continuous haulage systems, longwall shield haulers, diesel tractors, maintenance vehicles, maintenance centers, cargo carriers, charger cargo carriers and performs original equipment manufacturer rebuilds.