Top 100: Flat Torque Holds Finer Grade

Sept. 28, 2010

The heart of the B-Series motor grader upgrade is the change to 7.1-liter or 9.6-liter Volvo engines. Their flat torque curve through the main speed range provides the lugging capability a blade needs for fine grading, attachment work, and for precision in poor footing. The graders use variable-displacement, piston hydraulic pumps for optimum hydraulic response. A hydraulic fan drive only cools as hard as the engine temperature demands, so noise and fuel consumption are minimized. Seven models range in weight from 31,000 to 43,000 pounds. Estimated price (the 31,000-pound G780B): $304,750.