New Orleans (February 23, 2015) – The Snorkel A46JRT is a robust & reliable rough terrain articulated boom lift with powerful 4-wheel drive for superb rough terrain performance. It is simple to operate and maintain and is ideal for both maintenance and construction applications.
The A46JRT provides a 52-foot 11-inch maximum working height, from a 6-foot 10-inch chassis, zero tail swing, and it can lift 500 lbs. With its powerful Kubota V1505 diesel engine, the A46JRT delivers excellent lift and drive speeds and can climb slopes of up to 40%. An oscillating front axle ensures enhanced performance on rough terrain. The machine has an inside turning radius of just 2-foot 8-inches, yet still provides outreach of up to 24-foot 11-inches. A 5-foot, 140° jib and Snorkel’s proportional, multi-function, variable speed controls ensure that the operator can position the platform with complete precision.
This class-leading articulated boom lift provides superb “up and over” capabilities and an excellent working envelope that is enhanced by a 160˚ platform rotation. It has ground clearance of 13-inches and the 72-inch x 39-inch tri-entry basket can safely lift two people with tools. Wide pneumatic rough terrain tires are fitted as standard. Options include platform lights, an AC generator, airline to platform and Snorkel’s bespoke protection packages for cold weather, artic weather, extreme environments, and aircraft protection.
Following new industry regulations stating that diesel engines must meet Tier 4 standards on emissions, Snorkel developed an updated powertrain for its popular A46JRT. The previous version of Snorkel’s A46JRT utilized a 44.3 horsepower turbocharged diesel engine that would have needed after treatment to comply with EPA Tier 4 final requirements. This particular engine is no longer offered and any alternatives would have needed the engine to move from the chassis to the turntable, which would have reduced the excellent visibility afforded by the tight, compact turntable of the A46JRT design, as well as departing from Snorkel’s design ethos to position the engine within the chassis of the lift.
Based on an operator’s natural response to slow down drive speed when encountering rough terrain, Snorkel installed an electronic control that adjusts the hydraulic drive speed based on inputs from the hydraulic system and engine. This enables the engine to maintain its peak performance speed and permits the use of a 24.8 horsepower engine instead of the previous 44.3 horsepower engine while minimally affecting general performance as perceived by the operator.
Feedback received from operators in the field confirm that they have noticed no reduction in performance of the machine with the new engine installation. This is a win-win scenario, as the new configuration offers an engine that has no after treatment and no requirement for regeneration cycles. It also operates at a lower speed, reducing fuel consumption, lowering engine noise, and increasing the engine’s life.
On flat level ground, the power available from the new engine propels the machine at 4.0 mph. When climbing steep grades, the controller takes over and maintains the maximum speed possible for the power available while preventing the engine from stalling.
The Snorkel A46JRT has been shortlisted for ‘Product of the Year – Self Propelled’ in the forthcoming International Awards for Powered Access (IAPA’s) which will take place on March 26th, 2015 in Washington D.C.
