The Charles Machine Works Inc., manufacturer of Ditch Witch underground construction equipment, has released a new vibratory plow, the Ditch Witch 420sx.

This new unit borrows from the walk-along 410sx, but adds riding capability, greater horsepower (40 hp), and several features that other articulating vibratory plows in its class do not have.

One feature of the 420sx is its dual-speed attachment drive. With two speeds, the operator can quickly adapt to changing ground conditions, whether plowing or trenching. The 420sx is designed to closely follow the contour of the ground, which helps the attachment maintain a constant plowing depth on uneven terrain. Besides a standard vibratory plow, the 420sx also can run a Roto Witch boring attachment and a trencher.

“We’ve improved the headshaft design of the trencher attachment and added a bigger auger,” said Brent Bolay, product manager of the 420sx. “The improvements in productivity and spoils handling make the 420sx a true production trencher.”

The operator’s console of the 420sx moves with the operator when the machine’s frame articulates, so the controls are always in the same place in relation to the operator. Improvements to the plow’s design minimize the vibration transmitted to the operator’s station, so the operator can work longer with greater comfort. And the unit’s skid shoes isolate vibration by keeping plow pins and other components off the ground, which also saves wear and tear on the machine and on the turf.

Another feature of the 420sx is its fold-down ROPS (roll-over protective structure), which enables the unit to operate under tree limbs, eaves and other low-hanging obstacles.

“The fold-down ROPS reduces the unit’s overall height by 18 inches,” Bolay said. “This feature makes the 420sx highly maneuverable in and around job sites.”

Overall productivity is enhanced by the machine’s 11-gal. fuel tank, which allows the operator to work longer without having to stop to refuel. The increased ground speed and single, pilot-operated control for both the ground drive and steering, make the 420sx easy and efficient to operate, according to the manufacturer.

Utility, telecom and landscape companies and contractors will be the primary users of the 420sx, which is designed to install lawn irrigation systems and communication, gas and electrical lines up to 3 in. in diameter and up to a 24-in. cover depth.

Optional equipment includes a front reel carrier, RotoWitch, light kit and digging attachment with 36-in. maximum depth and 8-in. maximum trench width.

For more information, call 800/654-6481 or visit www.ditchwitch.com.

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