ASV RC50: Problems, Durability, and Specs
The ASV RC50 is a multi-terrain track loader ASV holdings introduced in the mid-2000s. It is a medium-sized rubber track loader. This compact track loader has utility for landscaping, construction, agriculture, and more. The ASV RC50 is a versatile track loader and can work on different surfaces. This is due to its rubber track undercarriage with suspension. It is especially noted for its ability to work on lawns and delicate surfaces without damaging them.
We will take a close look at the ASV RC50 in this piece. We start with its specifications. Then, we highlight the durability of the ASV RC50 track loader. Finally, common problems of the ASV RC50 are looked at.
Specifications Overview
1) Dimensions and Weight
|
Dimensions |
5 ft |
|
Height to top of cab |
6.42 ft |
|
Ground clearance |
12.01 in |
|
Length with bucket |
10.67 ft |
|
Length without bucket |
8.34 ft |
|
Operating weight |
6200 lb. |
|
Shipping weight without bucket |
5500 lb. |
|
Ground Pressure (shipping) |
3.1 psi |
|
Ground Pressure (operating) |
3.5 psi |
With a 5-foot width, the ASV RC50 is primed to maneuver easily through tight areas. The height to the top of the cab will allow enough visibility despite the track loader's low profile. The ground clearance is also advantageous as it will enable the ASV RC50 to tackle uneven terrain. The ASV RC50's reach with or without a bucket is also commendable.
The weight of the ASV RC50 should provide stability when operated. The RC50 can distribute its weight effectively, partly due to its operating ground pressure.
2) Undercarriage
|
Length of track on ground |
4.92 ft |
|
Track gauge |
3.75 ft |
|
Ground contact area |
1767.01 in2 |
|
Number of track rollers per side |
6 |
|
Width of track |
15 in |
The undercarriage design of the ASV RC50 has an adept arrangement. Its length of track on ground and track gauge should help with stability on multiple terrains. Also, the ground contact area of the ASV RC50, together with its 6 track rollers per side, will bolster traction and distribution of weight. A track width of 15 inches is reasonable for a mid-sized track loader. It should be enough to prevent unnecessary ground disturbance.
3) Engine
|
Model |
Perkins 404C-22 |
|
Gross power |
50 hp |
|
Power measured @ |
2800 rpm |
|
Peak torque |
105 lb. ft |
|
Displacement |
134 cu in |
The ASV RC50 is equipped with a solid diesel engine. It uses the Perkins 404C-22. The 404C-22 is a naturally aspirated engine. It meets USA Environmental Protection Agencies tier 2 standards for off-highway vehicles. However, this emission rating falls short of more modern requirements. The 404C-22 is relatively quiet.
In terms of power, the 404C-22 can deliver 50 horsepower (hp) at 2800 revolutions per minute (rpm). Further, the engine's peak torque and displacement are decent. The engine balances power with efficiency. Additionally, the RC50 has relatively low operating costs.
4) Operational Specifications
|
Operating voltage |
12 V |
|
Alternator supplied amperage |
55 amps |
|
Tipping load |
3800 lb. |
|
Operating capacity (50% tip load) |
1900 lb. |
|
Operating capacity (35% tip load) |
1330 lb. |
|
Max speed – high range |
8 mph |
The operational specs of the ASV RC50 emphasize reliability and performance. Most notable amongst the ASV RC50's operating specifications is its impressive lifting capacity. The maximum speed for a track loader of this size is also impressive and should help productivity when moving between sites.
5) Service Refill Capacities
|
Engine coolant |
2 gal |
|
Engine oil |
2.8 gal |
|
Fuel tank |
15 gal |
|
Hydraulic tank |
8 gal |
The service refill capacities of the ASV RC50 are pretty good. They are large enough to allow for efficient work. You will not need to refill frequently. As a standard with this model, you do not need to replace the engine oil for up to 500 hours of usage.
6) Hydraulic System
|
Pump flow |
16.3 gal/min |
|
Relief valve pressure |
3000 psi |
The ASV RC50 uses an auxiliary hydraulic pump. Its maximum pump flow and relief valve pressure should help with controlled and smooth performance.
7) Attachments
The ASV RC50 is compatible with most industry-standard attachments. Installing and changing attachments is relatively easy because of the standard manual quick attach interface. With this interface, the ASV is compatible with most skid steer attachments. ASV recommends using attachments from their line of ASV Posi-Tool attachments for best performance. Some of the attachments in this line include:
- · Augers
- · Backhoes
- · Buckets
- · Rakes
- · Mowers
- · Blades
- · Pallet forks
- · Trenchers
- · Breakers
Selected Standard Features
Below are some of the features that come with all ASV RC50 as a standard.
- · Dual stage Air cleaner
- · 770 CCA Battery
- · Parking Brake
- · Drive controls, Pilot hydraulics
- · Direct Hydrostatic Final drive
- · Fuse box, Automotive type
- · Gauges – fuel level, hour meter, slope indicator
- · Heater, engine block
- · Ignition switch, key
- · Interior dome light
- · Loader arms
- · Posi-power control
- · Quick attach, manual
- · ROPS/FOPS canopy
- · Rubber track undercarriage
- · Hydrostatic transmission
- · Hand and foot-operated throttle
- · Halogen working lights (2 front and 1 rear)
- · Warning lights (coolant temp, engine oil pressure, low battery, hot hydraulic oil)
Options
Beyond the standard features, you can get additional features as an option. Some of these options include:
- · Air conditioner/heater
- · Backup alarm
- · Cab enclosures
- · Front door
- · Horn
- · Lift points, bolt-on
- · Three-inch-wide seat belt
- · Side windows with sliding glass
- · Sound insulation
- · Rear window glass
- · Front door wiper
Durability
There is not much with the ASV RC50 that indicates that this track loader is not durable. The ASV RC50 has a strong steel frame to protect it but has other specifications, like the wide track width, that protect it from damage. ASV's use of a full-floating suspension, together with its wide tracks, minimizes the risk of tipping and keeps a stable machine.
Another contributor to the ASV RC50's durability is its rubber track undercarriage. This type of undercarriage helps traction and minimizes ground disturbance. But crucially, this choice helps reduce machine wear.
The heavy-duty Perkins engine in the ASV RC50 is also an excellent pointer to the durability of this machine overall. The Perkins 404C-22 compliance testing promises 6000 hours of durability while being affordable to maintain. Also, the Perkins engine is easily serviceable due to the ubiquitous availability of Perkins dealers worldwide.
Friction between drive components and the track is minimized due to the ASV RC50s hydrostatic sprockets. The hydrostatics come with free-tuning rollers. They enable the machine to use drive lugs in the tracks.
Generally, the ASV RC50 is a durable machine that can do a lot of heavy lifting on different terrains without significant wear. Additionally, the ease of maintenance of the ASV RC50 helps its durability. The presence of numerous ASV dealers is also good to know. The warranty of the ASV RC50 is not worth discussing since these machines are no longer available brand new. However, if you purchase a used or refurbished one from a trusted dealer, you should be able to get up to a year's warranty. Do serious diligence before buying a used ASV RC50.
Problems
No machine is perfect, and the ASV RC50 certainly isn't. However, the ASV RC50 does not have too many problems reported about it, unlike its sibling, the ASV RC30. Most of the problems you will find with the ASV RC50 are not unique and can be prevented with frequent maintenance. Nevertheless, highlighted below are some of them.
1) Rubber Track Wear and Tension
As time passes, the rubber tracks on the ASV RC50 may wear out. This process is likely to begin much earlier if the machine is frequently used on abrasive surfaces. For example, rocky surfaces may cause early wear. Improper tensioning of the rubber tracks can cause it to wear faster or derail. Track maintenance and correct tensioning are necessary to prevent these issues.
2) Hydraulic Leaks
Wear and tear on hoses, seals, fittings, or connectors can create hydraulic leaks. Leaks will affect hydraulic performance and hinder work. You must regularly inspect the hydraulics. Early repair of leaks will prevent the issue from worsening.
3) Engine Problems
The Perkins 404C-22 diesel engine is very reliable, as we have established previously. Yet, it may develop faults if not correctly maintained or if used beyond its capacity. Problems may emanate from the fuel, exhaust, or electrical system. Overheating and oil leaks are other issues that could bug the ASV RC50's engine. As with everything on this list, proper maintenance will keep most of these engine problems away.
Conclusion
The ASV RC50 is a well-built track loader that allows users to do different types of jobs in multiple terrains. This article looked at its specifications, durability, and problems. The ASV RC50's spec sheet is solid, with its engine, undercarriage, and dimensions standing out. As well, it has several useful standard features. You can also optionally add other features.
For durability, the ASV RC50 is built with solid materials, equipped with a durable engine, and easy to maintain. Finally, we looked at problems that may affect the ASV RC50. The RC50 is not too problematic. We identified three problems to watch out for. Rubber track wear, hydraulic leaks, and engine issues. Correct usage and frequent maintenance will prevent most of these problems.
Add comment