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Toro goes all in — and all out — with product intros

By |  February 16, 2016 0 Comments

How to describe new Big Red offerings? A boatload

It’s unclear whether stats are kept on the number of new products introduced at each year’s Golf Industry Show (GIS), or on what company unveils the largest batch of new stuff. But it’s pretty clear that if such numbers were totaled, Toro would have to have been in the extreme upper tier during the 2016 San Diego GIS.

At a press conference during the trade show in San Diego, Toro representatives kept the assembled crew of scribblers busy for more than an hour announcing new or enhanced irrigation and iron offerings.

Let’s start with irrigation, then move on to the heavy metal.

Irrigation

Lynx Smart Hub
Part of the Lynx GDC 2-wire control system, the Lynx Smart Hub is a new type of field controller that adds security, programmability and sensing to the benefits and simplicity of a two-wire system.

This adaptable field controller has flexible installation options that include a local or remote pedestal or wall mount and wireless or optional wired two-way communication. The communication system has a range of up to two miles, allowing for road crossings and phased irrigation projects, and provides a simple way to distribute intelligence as a controller for multiple golf holes.

 

Two-wire technology enables operators to control up to 1,000 sprinklers per hub and 250 sprinklers per wire path. The Smart Hub stores and runs a fully flow-managed irrigation schedule, while creating a point of connection for soil, flow and status sensors.

“They Lynx Smart Hub is an exciting addition to Toro’s trusted line of irrigation products,” says John Dalman, senior product manager at Toro Irrigation. “The idea behind the Lynx Smart Hub is truly all about convenience, accessibility and productivity. It can be put anywhere on the course with wireless communication, which ultimately equates to time saved and a more productive operation.”

Maintenance and troubleshooting are simplified due to the dispersion of holes within the two-wire system. This enables localized fault analysis that does not interfere with other holes. The Lynx Smart Hub also can be fitted with a repeater for use with Turf Guard wireless soil sensors.

The Lynx Smart Hub will be available from Toro distributors in spring 2016. In line for a summer 2016 introduction is the Lynx Dash, a web-based dashboard interface that provides advanced weather information. Available now is the Lynx GAC, an international solution for older CDS, Rain Bird and Hunter AC decoder systems.

OSMAC G3 Field Controller
The OSMAC G3 is an addition to Toro’s line of field controllers for golf course irrigation. Available as a complete satellite or as an upgrade to existing E-OSMAC satellites, the OSMAC G3 offers new intuitive faceplate capabilities, improved performance and an enhanced level of control.

The OSMAC G3 offers a simple user interface that can carry out both scheduled irrigation and multi-manual activities. The unit also delivers superior diagnostics that provide superintendents with easy-to-interpret data, and is equipped with Received Signal Strength Indicators to measure signal strength and improve overall performance.

Regardless of whether the OSMAC G3 is installed as a complete satellite or a retrofit faceplate for existing satellites, setup is simple. The retrofit kit can be installed in a matter of minutes and includes the OSMAC G3 faceplate, interface board, cables and hardware.

“We’re thrilled to now offer the enhanced OSMAC G3 field controller as both a complete satellite or as an upgrade option for one of our largest installed platforms — OSMAC,” says John Fuller, senior product manager at Toro. “Golf course managers are now able to interface directly with the controller functionality out in the field, which will make a positive impact to overall golf course productivity.”

Additionally, the OSMAC G3 is compatible with SitePro and Lynx Central Control systems, allowing superintendents to upgrade on an as-needed basis. Satellite controller colors are green, tree bark or desert sand. The OSMAC G3 units will be available summer 2016.

Infinity Stealth
Toro also has introduced the all-new Stealth Series Kit, the newest addition to its Infinity Series golf sprinkler.

The Stealth Series Kit offers a solution that Toro says improves playing conditions by enabling turfgrass to grow above the sprinkler head, creating a seamless and continuous area of turf that minimizes sprinkler interference during play.

The kit quickly attaches to any Infinity Series sprinkler, enabling installation below grade while promoting turf growth directly atop the sprinkler. The kit has a patent-pending design that eliminates disruption and damage to the course while allowing easy access to all adjustments and other internal components.

Additionally, the kit allows grass and root growth through technological innovations that include a turf cup design that encourages water drainage to prevent root rot. With 1.5 inches of room to grow, roots are able to retain turfgrass health.

“The Stealth Series Kit can really help golf course management elevate overall game play of the course,” says Jim Wright, senior product manager at Toro. “With the integration of this new feature, the issue of sprinkler interference is essentially eliminated.”

The kit will be available summer 2016.

Course equipment

Workman GTX Utility Vehicle
Also announced at GIS was the all-new Workman GTX utility vehicle, which the company calls one of the most versatile grounds and turf crossover vehicles in its class, combining comfort, control and versatility.

Superintendents and equipment managers are able to select from several models to match the right vehicle to their specific needs. Among these options are four- and two-seat configurations, a variety of front- and rear-attachments for garbage cans, hose reels or walk spreaders, and a number of flatbed options to haul even the bulkiest materials. Having more than 300 configurations to fit almost any application, the Workman GTX is a versatile and cost-effective.

“This simply superior utility vehicle is the best in the industry,” says Greg Lawrence, senior marketing manager at Toro. “The versatility of the GTX allows for a number of different jobs to be completed with a single vehicle, while also delivering on performance and operator comfort.”

Operation of the Workman GTX is simple, thanks to automotive-grade rack-and- pinion steering that provides more control and easier steering to allow operators to focus on the task at hand. In addition, class-exclusive coil-over shocks surround the vehicle and provide improved suspension for a smoother ride that minimizes operator fatigue.

The Workman GTX comes with low-maintenance hydraulic brakes that require no cable adjustment and less pedal force. It comes as either a 429 cc gasoline or 48-volt A/C electric model. At just 47-inches wide, its narrow frame also allows access for working in tight areas with ease.

Additionally, a powder-coated frame and underbody, paired with a strong exterior, make the Workman GTX extremely durable and ready for the demands of daily use.

The Workman GTX will be available in spring of 2016.

Workman MDX and MDX-D
The Toro Workman MDX and MDX-D have been relaunched to the golf industry with a number of customer-driven upgrades.

The Workman MDX, originally launched in 2008, now features increased horsepower, providing 1,250 pounds of cargo capacity and 1,200 pounds of towing capacity. Additionally, an improved carburetor-and-clutch calibration ensures that shifting occurs during peak torque levels, allowing the engine to run at a higher RPM. The automotive-grade rack-and-pinion steering system provides more control and minimizes steering effort. With more control, productivity is improved while minimizing potential operator fatigue.

“The new Workman MDX has the toughness of our trusted utility vehicle line, combined with a number of key upgrades,” says Greg Lawrence, senior product marketing manager at Toro. “The MDX now has more power and offers an even more comfortable ride, all while remaining very functional.”

The Workman MDX features a 480-cc gasoline engine, and the Workman MDX-D is powered by a 600-cc diesel engine. Both models feature hydraulic brakes on all four wheels for improved control. Meanwhile, the SRQ suspension boasts an independent A-frame front suspension with coil-over shock absorbers, a proprietary active in-frame twister joint, and a rear suspension featuring a swing arm design. Additionally, energy-efficient LED headlights come standard in the new units.

The Workman MDX has been upgraded aesthetically as well. Virtually indestructible exterior components, gunmetal grey rims and a black cargo box give the MDX a modern and rugged look. Furthermore, the double-walled polyethylene bed, new front bumper and textured hood help prevent scratches and other damage to the exterior of the vehicle.

The Workman MDX and MDX-D will be available early spring 2016.

Reelmaster 3555-D/3575-D
Two new models in the Reelmaster family of fairway mowers will be available soon, the Reelmaster 3555-D with 5-inch reels and the Reelmaster 3575-D with 7-inch reels. Both deliver a 100-inch width of cut. The new mowers also feature Toro’s new EdgeSeries reels in 8- or 11-blade configurations.

These powerful machines feature Dual Precision Adjustment cutting units with EdgeSeries reels for a long-lasting, crisp, clean cut. The efficient traction system enhances maneuverability in hilly and wet conditions, while the three-wheel design minimizes turnaround time and wear and tear on turf. Additionally, the all-wheel drive traction system prevents wheel slip and loss of traction for improved performance.

The new Toro Reelmaster 3555-D/3755-D models are compact, and new design enhancements optimize the power needed to drive the cutting units and traction system, maximizing the overall utilization and efficiency of the 24.8-hp engine.

Both the Reelmaster 3555-D and 3575-D models are built on the platforms of the Reelmaster 3550-D and 3100-D. Routine maintenance is simplified and reduced by a design focused on easy accessibility to the engine, hydraulics and cutting units. In terms of operation, each new Reelmaster 3555-D/3575-D model boasts a lightweight design, giving the unit a low center of gravity while minimizing turf compaction.

“These new machines are truly an ideal blend of maneuverability and performance,” says Steven Peterson, marketing manager at Toro. “The lightweight design, combined with surprisingly impressive engine power, makes these fairway mowers incredibly versatile.”

A quiet machine, the Reelmaster 3555-D/3575-D operates at 84 dBA at the operator’s ear, which is low compared with a typical fairway mower.

The Reelmaster 3555-D and 3575-D will be available for delivery in the spring of 2016.

Greensmaster Flex

Toro has released the Greensmaster Flex 1820 and 2120. These new walk greens mower models deliver a pristine aftercut appearance, according to the company, thanks to a number of new features.

“The new Greensmaster Flex 1820 and 2120 have all of the proven benefits of our earlier models, but we took our designs one step further and included enhancements that help the machine run more efficiently,” says Jamieson Bergen, Toro senior marketing manager.

The new Greensmaster models include a user-friendly Multi-Disk wet clutch for easy drive engagement and feathering for ease of operation. As a result, operators can now engage at lower RPMs to make turnarounds in tight areas noticeably more convenient.

The clippings basket now is connected to the suspension cross-arm, as opposed to the traction unit frame. This important change allows the baskets to follow the cutting units precisely regardless of undulations of the terrain. Furthermore, the new design retains the unique Toro feature of distributing the weight of the basket evenly on the front and rear rollers, while the clippings fill the basket for a more consistent cut across the entire green.

Another enhancement to the Flex 1820 and 2120 is the incorporation of the new EdgeSeries reels (see below) into the Dual Point Adjustment (DPA) cutting units.

Finally, the height-of-cut adjustment on the Greensmaster Flex 1820 and 2120 has been simplified thanks to the integration of wave washers on the height-of-cut screws on all DPA cutting units. This simple addition allows the technician to achieve a precise height of cut adjustment every time.

Both the Greensmaster Flex 1820 and 2120 models are available now. In addition, the company will have its new Greenmaster 3120 economy triplex available in March 2016.

EdgeSeries reels
Toro says it has made a number of innovations to their reel cutting systems to increase overall performance, reduce maintenance and provide an outstanding quality of cut on greens and fairways.

Toro’s reel cutting systems have been improved and subsequently integrated with Toro’s new EdgeSeries reels, which are currently — or will soon be– available on all Toro Greensmaster walk and riding greensmowers, Reelmaster fairway mowers, and as replacement parts.

The new reels feature updated blade materials for a longer reel life, which reduces maintenance costs and increases golf course productivity. Additionally, the new reels provide an improved blade angle to promote the overall health of turfgrass by providing a cleaner and healthier cut, while at the same time reducing backlapping and grinding.

Low-friction seals and bearings are also available on cutting units for select Greensmaster and Reelmaster models that, when combined with the new EdgeSeries reels, improve fuel efficiency and maximize the overall productivity of the cutting system.

The company says initial trials have confirmed that the new cutting systems yield excellent results for fairways and greens, regardless of grass type.

Additional benefits of the new cutting systems also can be realized in terms of increased productivity and reduced maintenance. “Simply put, these reels cut our reel maintenance labor by more than half, thanks to the composition of the reel material. We put a relief grind on them and backlap them, and they go out with no issues at all,” says Jim Gloor, equipment manager at May River Golf Club. “I’ve been doing this for 32 years, and I’ve never had a reel like this.”

The EdgeSeries reels are available in a number of sizes and blade configurations to fit Toro Greensmaster and Reelmaster models. The improved cutting systems, which include the new EdgeSeries reels, are now available from Toro distributors worldwide.

Groundsmaster 5900/5910

Toro also has released the new EPA Tier 4 Final Compliant Groundsmaster 5900/5910 rotary mower. This improved model takes the design of the previous Groundsmaster 5900/5910 model and integrates a fuel-efficient Tier 4 Final compliant Yanmar 3.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine.

“We took a hard look at key areas where we could improve an already outstanding mower, and we are excited to be able to now offer this extremely efficient and productive model,” says Kevin Conry, senior marketing manager at Toro. “The overall productivity of this machine coupled with increased fuel efficiency, simple serviceability and a continued emphasis on operator comfort are all key drivers that contributed to the new and improved Groundsmaster 5900/5910.”

The Groundsmaster 5900/5910 delivers improved horsepower efficiency through innovations to the hydraulic systems, the electric cooling system and deeper cutting decks, which reduces power usage in thick or tall cutting conditions. Because of these innovations, the upgraded Tier 4 Final models have demonstrated fuel savings of up to 30 percent when compared with the previous Groundsmaster 5900/5910 models.

The redesigned large-area mower boasts a 16-foot wide cutting width, enabling an operator to mow more than 100 acres per day, making this an extremely productive mower for even the largest applications. Uptime productivity is increased through the integration of both the SmartPower system, which keeps the cutting blades running at optimum speed regardless of turf conditions, and the SmartCool system, which blows clippings and debris off the intake screen to prevent overheating.

The Groundsmaster 5900/5910 models feature a larger ControlArm console, which now positions all key controls at the operator’s fingertips. The onboard InfoCenter displays clear and simple operating information at a glance and provides key maintenance reminders. Furthermore, the four-way adjustable seat and air-ride suspension adjust to the operator’s desired firmness to maximize comfort. The entire operator platform is isolation-mounted to reduce noise and vibration. Additionally, a factory-installed all- season cab model provides the operator with a safe and climate-controlled environment equipped with a number of features, including a low-profile roof, rollover protection system and an air filtration system that minimizes operator exposure to dust and debris.

This is posted in Industry News


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