McConnel Robocut RC40
Today we are looking at the McConnel Robocut RC40. A remote control power unit mainly designed for grass and brush clearance. However, there is a range of 20 different attachments ranging from a loading bucket to a stump grinder.
Recently we looked at the smallest Robocut RC28 tracked radio remote mower. Today we will look at the 40-hp model
Having used radio remote machines, I can very much see the advantages of the McConnel Robocut range of power units. It also prevents the operator from walking on difficult terrain. The manufacturer claims that the output can be more than 25 times higher than manual cutting. I am not quite sure about that, although I can see that the output would be considerably higher.
You Can Find Smaller Robotic Mowers Here
Features
- Yanmar diesel engine.
- Fully enclosed with metal panels.
- Cutting width up to 1.6 m.
- Very responsive remote controls.
- 150 m working range.
- Low centre of gravity.
- Choice of track options.
- Huge range of attachments.
- Tackles slopes up to 55°.
- Excellent build quality.
The McConnel Robocut RC40
The McConnel Robocut RC40 is primarily designed for tackling tough terrain where other machines cannot go. The centre of gravity and rubber tracks makes it ideal for rough terrain and banks. With the spiked tracks, the machine can climb up to 55°, which is quite something.
Diesel Engine
The McConnel Robocut RC40 is powered by a Yanmar 40-hp three-cylinder, stage V, diesel engine. The engine develops 40 hp (27.5 kW) at 3000 rpm.
The fuel tank capacity is just 21 L, which is not very large. Maybe the machine is exceptionally economical, I cannot imagine that 21 L of fuel lasting all day.
The radiator has a reversible fan, which is a novel way of clearing debris. I think all of us who have used mowing machinery know how quickly radiators can become clogged. It looks like a really effective way of keeping the radiator clear, providing it is dry.
Rubber Tracks
There are three types of rubber track, the standard track will climb up to 40°. The super rubber tracks will enable the machine to climb a 50° slope. And finally, the spiked rubber tracks will enable the machine to climb a slope up to 55°.
McConnel has fitted self-tensioning tracks, so there’s no need to pump up the tracks with a grease gun!
Remote Control
The McConnel Robocut RC40 is totally controlled by the remote control unit. Even starting the engine is carried out from the remote control.
I’m very impressed with how much control the remote gives the operator. Variable speeds, cutting height etc. can all be controlled from a remote. The remote carries a small rechargeable battery.
The remote control gives variable speed control, in first gear, the speed is 0 – 4 km/h. In second gear, the speed is 0 – 7 km/h. The speeds are achievable in both forward and reverse.
Flail Head Attachment
The flail head attachment is available in 1.3 m or 1.6 m. The rotor speed is 3300 rpm.
The Y-type flails Arthur cutting grass and light wood up to 30 mm in diameter. For heavier cutting, a hammer-type flail is provided, for cutting grass and wood up to 50 mm in diameter.
20 Different Attachments
The 20 different attachments include a flail, Rotary turf mower, a forest clearance head and a mulching head. On the forestry side of things, there is a stump grinder and chipper attachment.
Other attachments include a rake, bucket, snowblower, dozer blade, rotavator, trencher and forklift.
To Conclude
I have always liked the idea of a power unit that can take multiple attachments. The McConnel Robocut RC40 is certainly a very universal power unit. I’m not sure how effective the bucket or forklift attachment would be. However, the other attachments certainly give a huge amount of scope to make the machine truly universal.
Specification
Engine
MakeYANMAR, 3 cylinder, Stage VHorsepower40hp (27.5kw) @ 3000rpmTorque105NmFuelDieselFuel tank capacity21 litresWater-cooled radiator3 core havy dutySelf-cleaning (reversible fan)Standard manual and automaticTransmissionFine control hydrostaticMaximum noise levels80dB(A)
Hydraulics
Independent flailhead circuit
Closed circuit piston
Max 55l/min @ 280 Bar
Independent track drive circuit2 x closed circuit piston
Max 57 l/min @ 250 BarAux service
1 double acting auxillery service
Independent intercooler
StandardOil tank capacity
11 litres
Attachment lift capacity
550kg
Tracks
RubberStandard ~ max working angle 40°Rubber with spikes
Optional ~ max working angle 55°Self-tighteningStandardLength (axle to axle)1192mm
Remote Controls
Working range150mFrequency434Mhz (certified by CE legislation)BatteryInterchangeable, rechargeable, 2 with each unit, charge on machine
Proportional joysticksStandard
Dimensions
Overall width1310mmOverall length (without attachment)1960mmOverall height1120mm
Weight
ROBOCUT2 RC401150kg
Performance
Potentiometer speed control
(0 – 100%)1st gear (low range)
Forward and back, 0 – 4km/h
2nd gear (low range)
Forward and back, 0 – 7km/h
Flailhead / Attachment
Oil flow59 l/minPressure350 BarRotor speed3300 rpmFront and rear flapsStandardFlailsY – Flails for cutting grass and light wood up to 30mm diameter
J (hammer) – Flails for cutting thick grass and wood up to 50mm diameter rotor width1.3m to 1.6mRoller diameter100mmCutting height range
(via roller adjustment)20mm – 85mm (5 positions)
Flailhead can be lifted to cut higher hydraulic lift-300mm to +400mmFloatation (angle)14° up and down (+/-)
