Analyzing the Manitou Skid Steer Loader (and its door design)
At 11:59 in
The 3 Best / 3 WORST things from Con expo
What happens here
The video introduces the Manitou 2300 VT Compact Loader, a new mid-frame machine. A significant innovation is its common frame design, allowing it to be configured as either a skid steer or a tracked machine by simply changing the drive components (tracks or tires). This offers versatility and interchangeability of approximately 90% of parts between configurations. The engine is a Yanmar, and the machine has improved serviceability, with better access to batteries and a single-piece cooler that combines hydraulic and antifreeze cooling without double-stacking. The cab has also been redesigned for comfort, featuring optional heated seats and hydraulic-over-hydraulic controls. However, the host expresses strong criticism for the bi-fold overhead door design, finding it impractical and prone to accumulating dirt/mud, which could scratch the polycarbonate window when operated.
Goal: Evaluate the new features of the Manitou 2300 VT Compact Loader and critique its cab door design.
Tools and materials
- Bi-fold Overhead Door — Cab access and enclosure
- Heated Seats — Optional comfort feature in the cab
- Hydraulic Pumps — Operates the loader's hydraulic functions
- Hydraulic-over-Hydraulic Controls — Control system for the loader's functions
- Manitou 2300 VT Compact Loader Manitou — New mid-frame skid steer/tracked loader with common frame design
- Polycarbonate Window — Material used for the cab door window
- Tires — Alternative drive component for the common frame
- Tracks — Alternative drive component for the common frame
- Yanmar Engine Yanmar — Engine used in the compact loader