Two Locations

Knoxville

865-982-6452

Tri-Cities

423-975-9111

Operating Hours

Parts & Service

M-F 7am - 5pm

Sales & Rentals

M-F 8am - 5pm

Contact Us

865-982-6452

Sales: Blake Wilson

Parts/Service: Terry Nichols

CASE Historial Excavator
Construction Industry Trends
March 1, 2025

Do You Know the Historic Evolutions of CASE Construction Equipment?

, , , , , , , , , ,
Emily Bieger

CASE Construction Equipment’s history dates to before the American Civil War, with a legacy of innovation and excellence.

A brand synonymous with innovation and excellence in the construction industry, CASE has a rich history spanning over 175 years. Founded by Jerome Increase Case in 1842 as the Racine Threshing Machine Works in Racine, Wisconsin, the company has evolved from producing threshing machines to becoming a global leader in heavy construction equipment.

Key Highlights:

  • Founding and Early Innovations: CASE Construction Equipment’s early innovations included the production of threshing machines and, in 1869, the first portable steam engine, which played a crucial role in early road construction.
  • Expansion into Construction Equipment: By the mid-20th century, CASE expanded significantly into construction equipment.
  • Strategic Acquisitions and Mergers: Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, CASE made strategic acquisitions, and merged with New Holland to form CNH Global, which later became CNH Industrial in 2013.
  • Recent Innovations and Future Outlook: CASE has continued to innovate with the launch of electric equipment and is focused on meeting industry demands through investments in technology.

Early Years: Threshing Machines and Steam Engines

In its early years, CASE focused on manufacturing threshing machines, which revolutionized wheat harvesting by increasing efficiency tenfold compared to manual methods. The company’s foray into steam engines began in 1869 with the production of its first portable steam engine, a milestone that marked the beginning of its involvement in road construction. This steam engine, now housed at the Smithsonian Institution, symbolizes CASE’s pioneering spirit in mechanical innovation.

Expansion into Construction Equipment

The dawn of the 20th century saw CASE expand its product line into construction equipment. A pivotal moment came in 1957 with the introduction of the CASE Model 320, the first factory-integrated tractor loader backhoe. This innovation cemented CASE’s position in the construction machinery sector. Over the years, the company continued to diversify its offerings, entering the excavator market in 1967 and skid steer loader production in 1969.

Strategic Acquisitions and Mergers

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, CASE made strategic acquisitions to bolster its portfolio. Notable acquisitions include Poclain excavators in 1977 and Drott Manufacturing Company in 1968, which expanded its presence in the wheeled excavator market. In 1999, CASE merged with New Holland to form CNH Global, which later became CNH Industrial in 2013.

Recent Innovations

Construction Industry's first electric backhoe loader.

In recent years, CASE has continued to innovate and expand its product line offerings. The company has made significant strides in electric equipment, launching the 580EV, the industry’s first electric backhoe loader, which has garnered significant interest and enthusiasm from the industry. Additionally, CASE has introduced new models like the TL 100 mini track loader and several small articulated loader models, further diversifying its product lineup.

Current And Future Outlook

Today, CASE Construction Equipment is part of CNH Industrial and operates as a leading manufacturer of construction machinery, including excavators, motor graders, wheel loaders, and skid steers. The company is focused on meeting industry demands through investments in manufacturing and technology. Trends shaping CASE’s strategy include the adoption of machine control technology, digital connectivity, and alternative power sources like electric equipment.

In 2025, CASE is poised to continue its legacy of innovation, with a focus on electric and digitally connected solutions. The company’s commitment to exceeding customer expectations and needs and to furthering technological advancements position it well for future growth and leadership in the construction equipment sector. You can count on Contractor’s Machinery to bring you all the latest equipment and insights from our partners at CASE.

Read More
The growing need for compact equipment in urban construction
Construction Industry Trends
February 1, 2025

The Growing Need for Compact Equipment in Urban Construction

, , , , , , , , , , ,
Emily Bieger

As the need for residential and commercial space continues to grow, urban construction has become much more common. The unique confines of an urban landscape present construction challenges for the size and type of equipment that can be used to build in the urban environment. As new compact construction technology continues to develop and mature, it’s important for contractors to understand why they need to consider acquiring quality compact machinery. Below is a list of reasons why compact equipment better fits growing city and startup project construction sites.

Compliance with Urban Regulations

Regulations regarding the types of equipment contractors are allowed to use in certain areas have grown. With laws limiting noise, emissions and even weights of construction equipment in crowded areas, a growing need has presented itself for smaller equipment that can handle the same workload as their larger counterparts. Machinery like Case Compact Track Loaders and Compact Dozer Loaders help exceed site needs while meeting these more stringent regulations. Simultaneously, they set the bar as top-of-the-line compact equipment that performs above its weight class.

Navigating Tight Spaces

Urban construction’s most difficult challenges include navigating narrow streets, crowded neighborhoods and working with limited staging areas. Compact equipment excels in these environments. Mini excavators and other compact equipment can efficiently dig and grade in areas where larger machines struggle to fit or get turned around. The Case TR340B Compact Track Loader offers a smaller overall footprint, allowing operators to maneuver through tight spaces without sacrificing performance.

Versatility of Compact Machinery

Compact equipment often offers a useability and versatility that larger, clunkier equipment can’t match. With compact machinery’s ability to easily interchange attachments such as grapples, buckets and augers, the need to bring in specific pieces of large machinery can be, to some extent, limited, if needed at all. Adding versatile compact machinery to your fleet of construction equipment can help streamline urban construction jobs while saving time and money from deploying your big gun/high dollar machinery.

Improved Transport and Storage

The convenience of compact machinery in urban construction becomes quite evident when it’s time to transport your equipment. Deploying heavy equipment in urban areas through urban traffic can be challenging and time-consuming. And time is money. Compact machines are easier to load, transport and properly store, making them more practical and economical for city projects. 

Cost Effectiveness

Smaller machinery usually comes with smaller upfront purchasing costs, reduced maintenance and lower fuel costs compared to large machinery. For contractors working on startup projects with limited budgets and for those developing smaller urban infrastructure, compact machinery is ideal. There is no need to take up space and spend extra cash on large machinery that can only be used for specific jobs if smaller equipment can get the job done. Do be aware however, that costs can escalate pretty quickly when you start adding on all the attachments you may need for certain jobs. Keep this in mind when building your small equipment fleet.

In conclusion, the following is still true: Size matters. If you are finding cost issues and inconveniences in deploying your large equipment in the ever-growing and developing urban landscape, it may be time to consider some smaller-sized equipment options that are still tough enough to get the heavy jobs done but be easier to operate on the job site. Consult with your CMI Case representative to find the right sized equipment options and attachments for your construction fleet.

Read More
Keep heavy equipment operating efficiently in winter months
Equipment Maintenance
January 20, 2025

Keeping Heavy Machinery Operating Efficiently in Winter Months

, , , , , , , , , , , ,
Emily Bieger

As temperatures drop and winter weather approaches, heavy construction equipment works harder. Cold weather can affect machinery performance, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of breakdowns. At CMI Case, we understand the importance of keeping equipment in top working condition year-round. With that in mind, here are some essential tips to keep your heavy construction equipment operating optimally to keep your projects on track during the colder months.

Inspect and Maintain Your Equipment

Regular equipment inspections are key to preventing costly repairs and untimely breakdowns. Check for leaks, wear and damage, especially in hydraulic systems, electrical components, engines and cooling systems. Maintain proper tire pressures and look for cracks or excessive wear on tracks and tires, particularly for excavators and skid steers. These simple steps can save you time and suffering out in the cold of winter.

Switch to Winter Grade Fluids

Cold temperatures cause fluids to thicken and flow more slowly, reducing machinery efficiency and performance. To combat this, it’s essential to switch to winter-grade engine oil, hydraulic fluids and fuel additives, which help prevent diesel fuel from gelling. Diesel engines are particularly vulnerable to cold weather, as water in the fuel system can freeze and cause clogs or damage. To avoid these issues, regularly drain water separators, use anti-gel additives or winter diesel, and keep fuel tanks full to minimize condensation buildup. By taking these steps, you can ensure your equipment operates smoothly and reliably throughout the winter months.

Battery Care

Batteries often lose efficiency in cold temperatures, making it harder to start your equipment and increasing the risk of other electrical related issues. There’s an old saying that batteries get killed in the summer (due to heat) and die in the winter (due to increased load demands they can no longer maintain). To keep your batteries in peak condition during winter, start by cleaning and tightening connections to ensure proper voltage flow. Regularly test the battery charge and replace any weak or failing batteries before they become a problem and leave you stranded. For equipment stored outdoors, consider using battery heaters or maintainers to keep them warm and ready to perform, even in freezing conditions. Proper battery care can make all the difference in keeping your machines running smoothly throughout the winter. 

Store Your Equipment Properly

Making sure your equipment is stored properly will shelter it from the harsh elements of winter. If possible, use covered areas or even indoor storage facilities to protect your machinery from the winter snow, ice, wind and rain. If you are not able to find cover for your equipment it is always smart to use waterproof covers to protect external components. Also, park machinery on solid ground after use to avoid important undercarriage components from freezing.

Preparing Your Crew for the Cold

Along with preparing your heavy machinery for the winter, it’s important to make sure that your most important pieces of equipment are ready for the cold too, and that is your crew! Teaching your crew to quickly recognize and respond to things like weather related equipment stress, emergency breakdowns, and other proper machinery upkeep can ensure that your projects won’t skip a beat despite the challenges cold weather might bring. Most importantly, keep safety in mind, as cold weather and ice can make operating heavy machinery dangerous. Keeping your crew up to date on the newest safety procedures and precautions that need to take should always be the utmost priority!

Always keep the tips and tricks above in mind for cold winter days. It’s also smart to reference machinery manuals for proper manufacturer recommendations and also seek out the wisdom of sales and service professionals on techniques that can be used to best protect your machinery from winter weather. CMI Case has service and sales professionals available Monday through Friday from 8-5pm to answer all your questions about your equipment and how to properly take care of it to avoid costly breakdowns.

Read More
Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment
Equipment Maintenance Heavy Equipment
September 1, 2024

Even Heavy Equipment Tracks Require Maintenance

, , , , , , , , ,
Emily Bieger

Maintaining tracks on excavators and other heavy machinery is vital for containing costs and ensuring the longevity of construction equipment. Since new tracks can be expensive, and complex installation procedures can add to that expense, extending the life of a machine’s tracks through proper maintenance is smart business. While every tracked machine will eventually need new tracks, proper care and attention can significantly extend their lifespan. Unfortunately, many operators are lax in this aspect of equipment care.

Here are five essential tips to help maximize the life of your current tracks and keep your tracked machinery operating efficiently and smoothly.

1. Choose the Right Tracks for the Job

Selecting the right track width for the conditions you’ll be working in is crucial. Narrow tracks are better for hard-packed soil or rocky terrain, while wider tracks are optimal for soft or muddy ground. Picking the proper track width ensures safety, even weight distribution and will help prevent your machine from sinking into the ground.

2. Smart Driving Practices

Although this may sound obvious, it’s important to utilize proper driving skills to prolong the life of your tracks. Avoid driving over sharp or damaging materials, curbs, or chemicals. Steer clear of steep inclines or declines and minimize time spent on harsh surfaces like asphalt or concrete. And always drive with the machine facing forward to reduce wear and prevent unnecessary track stress. Pay attention to how the machine drives and operates, listening for unusual friction or grinding noises and anything out of the ordinary will help catch issues before they can incur expensive damage.

3. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Muddy tracks need to be kept clean for maximum. longevity.

Keeping your tracks clean helps avoid premature wear. Use a track spade or power washer to remove dirt and debris after each use. Accumulated dirt can affect fuel efficiency as well as cause damage, especially in the winter when frozen dirt/soil can impact rollers and bolts more easily. Be sure to regularly inspect the undercarriage for damage, misalignment, oil leaks, or erosion to the machine.

4. Proper Track Tension and Storage

Check and adjust track tension routinely to prevent damage and performance issues. Loose tracks can slip off and delay completion of your work. Inversely, overly tight tracks may strain mechanicals of machinery. When storing tracks, keep them in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight. Periodically run the machine to avoid warping that may come from a machine staying idle for too long.

5. Thoughtful New Track Installation

When it’s time to install new tracks, proper installation is critical to avoid damage and ensure long-lasting tracks for equipment. Consider having a professional handle this process. If you chose to do it yourself, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear the appropriate gear. Make sure both tracks are replaced at the same time to maintain balanced usage wear and prolong an expensive piece of equipment’s lifespan.

Following proper care protocols and maintenance schedules will make sure you get the full usefulness, value, and longevity out of your equipment’s tracks. For more details, consult the expert technicians at Contractor’s Machinery. We’re here to help!

Read More
Summer heat can harm your expensive machinery just like it can harm you!
Equipment Maintenance
August 1, 2024

Maintaining Your Machinery in the Summer Heat

, , , , , , , , ,
Contractors Machinery

Schedule machine use outside of peak sunlight hours

When possible, try to avoid using heavy machinery during peak heat hours. In most places, the summer heat typically peaks between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Operating equipment during these hours significantly increases the chances of your radiator or engine overheating. Instead, schedule heavy machinery use for early morning or later in the day. This tactic also helps protect your machine operators from the extreme heat.

Store your equipment in a shaded area

Try not to leave your equipment in the sun. This simple and logical trick will protect your machine from direct sunlight when it’s not in use. Find shade under trees, a tent, a tarp, or any other cool, dry place. Additionally, consider parking your equipment in the shade, even during short breaks. Any time you can keep your heavy equipment out of the sun it will help reduce heat-related issues.

Inspect your heavy equipment regularly

Daily inspection is important for the life of the equipment. Hot temperatures can cause overheating issues, so it is crucial to check things like coolant and antifreeze levels. These fluids are essential for keeping your machinery cool. It is also wise to regularly check your radiator, hoses, and fans for any leaks or cracks. A small problem with a key component left unfixed can lead to larger issues, so inspect often and don’t skip scheduled maintenance.

Properly clean your equipment

Keeping your equipment clean is not only an important part of general maintenance but is also crucial for maintaining performance during the summer heat. Mud and other debris can accumulate on key components of machinery throughout the day. Ensure that all cooling components are clear of dust and debris daily to prevent overheating and allow for proper airflow.

Prepare your heavy machinery in advance

Don’t wait for the heat to come, prepare ahead! Creating a list of general maintenance that needs to be completed is a great way to get ahead of the heat. Check fluids, grease your machines, and check key components such as the radiator. All of the steps go a long way in keeping your fleet and your business running at full capacity.

Read More
Heavy Equipment
March 1, 2024

A Mini Machine That Gives Maximum Performance

, , , , , , , , , ,
Contractors Machinery

The mini excavator could be just what your fleet is missing

Just how “mini” is this mighty machine? The Mini Excavator literally fits in a standard garage. But don’t let its looks deceive: It’s able to move massive amounts of earth, runs with a diesel engine and contains a boom arm and hydraulic system just like its “daddy” machines; but the Mini weighs in just under 10,000 pounds.

Used in residential settings, the Mini Excavator is one of the most versatile machines on the market. It efficiently digs foundations, grades, and levels lands with precision, and it effectively performs heavy-duty tasks like trenching and digging holes for septic systems.  

In the commercial world, this machine is being used for digging trenches, foundations, footings, even demolition work. Operators use it to create narrow trenches in utility work, transport mining and quarrying materials, and perform a variety of farming operations, such as creating irrigation systems.

This machine’s versatility doesn’t stop there. The Mini Excavator excels in the industrial sphere as well, meeting industry standards with a whole new level of proficiency. Its smaller size enables it to reach places other machines cannot, all the while being equipped with the power and precision to clear land, break down concrete, and move quickly with ease to transport waste and debris.

There is no question that the Mini Excavator would be a sensational addition to your fleet. If you are considering it, it’s critical to consider the option of renting vs. buying. It costs between $20,000 and $90,00 to buy. Depending on the model, brand, age and condition (new or used), this is a pretty broad range, so careful research and taking a farsighted look at your budget may determine that renting is a better option than buying.

When weighing the two options, here are some critical questions to consider:

  • How long and often will I use the machine? If needing for the very occasional job, renting is most certainly the wise thing to do.
  • Do I have the current capitol in my budget to either buy outright or make payments on a new machine? Even an occasional use over time may make a purchase worth it. (And something to consider with this specific machine is that, because of its versatility and unique size, many customers find that they opt for its use even more than originally anticipated.)
  • What could I potentially save? Larger machines are a more substantial expense to run. If the Mini can take on some of that work, you can potentially extend the life of your fleet all around.
  • How much can I allot for maintenance and repair costs? No purchase is carefree, and these are expenses that need to be approached thoughtfully when looking at your long-term bottom line, whether you buy new or used. If you’re contemplating the Mini or any other major equipment, talk to current owners and get a general feel for the weight of any long-term investment of a construction machine.

CMI-CASE takes pride in not only the products we carry, but the expertise that comes with them. If you want to check out the magnificent Mini, our experts will help you make the decision of whether buying or renting is the best option for you!

Read More
Construction Industry Trends
February 1, 2024

CASE Brings Some Exciting Innovations Into 2024

, , , , ,
Contractors Machinery

When Terry Dolan speaks, the industry listens! Dolan, who serves as the vice present of CASE Construction Equipment, recently addressed the innovations and challenges of the equipment industry in 2024 and highlighted some ways CASE is not only overcoming, but thriving as it leads the construction business into the future.

According to Dolan some of the biggest challenges from 2023 will unfortunately continue. Labor shortages have improved since last year at this time, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey revealed that October’s end still reported 423,000 job openings.

Not only are inherited labor shortages a concern, Dolan explains that 2024 will bring some additional workforce challenges. Government programs are initiating massive investment in the nation’s infrastructure (an estimated $1.2 trillion) and the demand will continue to soar. Despite these shortages and apparent doom and gloom forecasts, Dolan’s prediction for the year is optimistic, stating:

“Whether it’s incorporating more intuitive electrohydraulic controls in dozers to minimize the operator’s learning curve, or now offering new, subcompact machine markets to give small contractors construction-grade options for getting more done with fewer people, we’re innovating to meet customers where they are today so they can overcome those labor challenges.”

2023 brought extraordinary levels of growth to the heavy equipment industry. Over 30 new machines were introduced in the past year. Dolan refers to innovations like machine guidance and satellite positioning technology that drastically increase machine accuracy and control.

Although this new year isn’t expected to match this, it is expected to be market-driven, incorporating new technology to get the jobs done faster and with fewer people. This is going to be critical to the survival of this industry, since infrastructure is expected to develop at a time in our nation’s history when an unprecedented number of workers will be retiring.

Along with other experts, Dolan states that the push to decrease emissions will also continue throughout this year. In an industry that depends on diesel as its primary power source, this serves as a challenge and top priority as the construction equipment industry forges ahead in 2024. Exploration of alternative fuels and hydrogen continues to show great promise, and there has been huge progress in the electrification of vehicles.

In fact, in 2024 CASE will be launching the industry’s first fully electric backhoe! This model, along with other EVs being designed, is now able to perform with the same power and performance that was once available only by diesel. These vehicles will also offer multiple charging options, so that traditional challenges EVs bring to the contractor’s business will be averted.

Although no one can predict with complete accuracy what our economic forecast will be, Terry Dolan looks forward to a promising year of addressing the problems of labor shortage and fuel emissions. Machine guidance, satellite positioning technology, and huge progress in electrification mean this year will be an outstanding one for CASE and for Contractor’s Machinery, as it perpetuates an innovative trajectory in the construction business.

Read More
Buying new or used equipment. Today's blog breaks it down.
Equipment Maintenance
January 17, 2024

New or Used?

, , , , , , , , ,
Contractors Machinery

Some easy ways to answer a hard equipment question.

When you need to increase your fleet, you may have a better option than buying new. Purchasing used machinery isn’t only a great idea for the small business owner who doesn’t have the capital to purchase new; there are advantages for every business owner that are worth considering. If you are weighing the advantages and disadvantages of a used equipment purchase, just be sure you can check all the necessary boxes and have genuine savings in the end.

CONDITION – Since there will always be some unknowns when buying used construction equipment, it’s critical that you ask as many questions as possible. (a) Can the owner verify the operational hours on the equipment? (b) How about a complete service history? (c) Will there be any type of warranty on your used equipment? The answers to these questions (or lack of answers) may quickly determine your decision. If you’re still leaning toward used, have a third party do a thorough inspection.

PRICE – Determine that the purchase price really is lower than buying new. Just like with a car, equipment dealers have some “wiggle room”. This increases if you’re buying multiple machines, so make sure you really know the rock-bottom costs you are comparing. Another factor in determining price is interest rates. They must be factored in when you are comparing prices of new and used alike.

AVAILABILITY – Factories typically have a substantial production lead time. Once you place an order for a new machine it may be months before your equipment hits the job site. In fact, you may need to rent equipment temporarily until yours arrives. In an industry where time equals money, this is a necessary consideration. If you buy used, it’s possible to have your new skid steer lifting, excavator digging, and dozer moving within a few days.

VALUE – New heavy-duty equipment depreciates the second it leads the dealership. This will hit hardest when it’s time to sell. Used equipment doesn’t carry the same depreciation, so the buying and selling price point should be much less substantial.

TECHNOLOGY – There are substantial technological advancements being made each year in the heavy equipment industry. If these are critical to your work, get creative and take the financial plunge…new will be your best decision in the long run.

When all things are considered, you may conclude that it’s best for your business to buy new. But don’t rule out used until all things truly are considered! You just may have a better pre-owned option. Call your CMI-Case dealer today to find out more.

Knoxville | 865.982.6452
Tri-Cites | 423.975.9111

Read More
Mini Excavator
Heavy Equipment
December 1, 2023

Don’t Discount the Mini Excavator

, , , , , , , ,
Emily Bieger

Check out these top uses for the mini excavator and see just how versatile this mini but mighty piece of equipment can be.

Tree Planting and Roadside Installation

Before the advent of the mini excavator, homeowners and contractors alike were forced to dig holes the old-fashioned way, with a shovel and a whole lot of muscle. Same goes for road sign installation.

These versatile machines can now easily dig deep holes for trees, ensuring proper depth for root balls and trunks. And their compact size enables easy roadside work without disrupting traffic. Quickly and easily drill for sign poles by utilizing a hydraulic auger attachment.

In utility trench excavation, mini excavators excel in digging the necessary deep trenches. Soil challenges can affect whether trench excavation is successful. Safety measures like shoring, de-watering, and benching address such challenges. Mini excavators can handle trenching, backfilling, and compaction, providing a comprehensive solution.

For drainage ditch construction, mini excavators efficiently dig the necessary wide trenches, allowing water to flow away from properties. The machine’s agility ensures precise digging and easy filling of the ditch with crushed rock.

Job Preparation

Effective jobsite preparation will be step #1 for any construction project. Prep involves clearing vegetation, surface soil, and debris. A mini excavator can be utilized to clear and level the ground and move materials as needed.

CASE Mini Excavator

They are highly versatile and can be equipped with several different attachments that can tackle different needs. Example: a mini excavator with a long boom can help demolish old buildings from the top down and then place organize the resulting debris into piles and eventually, lift and dump the materials into a dump truck.

Pool Installation

 For many, having a pool in their own backyard is the stuff of dreams. A piece of construction equipment like the mini excavator makes a mid-sized project like pool installation much easier for a contractor or even an experienced DIYer.

Even though mini excavators are said to be stable like their larger counterparts, it’s not recommended to ride up slopes with angles greater than 20 degrees.

Irrigation and Landscape Design

Utilize a mini excavator for swift and efficient digging of trenches to place PC pipes for an underground sprinkler system. Prevent dirt from falling back into the trenches by using the excavator’s hydraulic arm and bucket or blade to move and backfill, completing the job much faster than manual tools.

Enhance residential or commercial property aesthetics with DIY landscaping projects. A mini excavator is essential for tasks like digging trenches, moving heavy stones, lifting fountains, and more, making landscaping projects more manageable and efficient.

CASE Mini Excavator

Drilling

Drilling is made quite simple with the versatile mini excavator. The auger attachment, featuring teeth and a pilot or drive, effortlessly drills into concrete or soil. Tree augers, designed with a smaller diameter at the bottom and a larger one at the top, facilitate tree planting.

For tougher tasks in solid rock or concrete, rock bits are the ideal auger type. Common projects utilizing a mini excavator with an auger include road signage posts, fence posts, tree planting, drainage, landscaping, mining, rock blasting, and more. Choose from a range of drilling attachments, each with unique features and benefits, available for purchase or rental.

In Summary

Turn time-consuming projects into much easier endeavors with the versatile mini excavator. This powerful machine handles tasks like planting trees, digging trenches, and installing pools or spas effortlessly. Its ability to maneuver around obstacles, coupled with a retractable undercarriage for navigating narrow spaces, makes it highly adaptable. With a range of attachments, the mini excavator is a versatile solution capable of tackling almost any project you present to it.

At Contractor’s Machinery, we offer a full line of CASE mini, midi and full-size excavators to tackle whatever project awaits you. Check out all our heavy duty CASE equipment to learn more or give us call so we can help you find the right equipment for the job.

Knoxville | 865-982-6452             
Tri-Cities | 423-975-9111

Read More
Construction
April 10, 2023

A Look Back at CONEXPO 2023

, , , , , , , , , ,
Contractors Machinery

CONEXPO is North America’s largest construction trade show, and it happens every three years in Las Vegas, NV. The most recent event was March 14-18th and Blake Wilson, VP/General Manager of Contractors Machinery Inc., attended this year’s show. We caught up with Blake and talked all about his experience.

CONEXPO 2023 is in the books from Las Vegas. Reports are the show broke attendance records, with over 139,000 people from over 30 countries. What did you think of this year’s CONEXPO overall?

Wilson: My feet hurt from trying to walk 3.5 million sq/ft of Convention Center. I have attended CONEXPO several times over the last 35 years and my biggest takeaway is that Technology is everywhere in the Construction Equipment Industry. Electric-powered equipment, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Controls, real-time machine maintenance and much more…

CASE Construction Equipment promised “You’ll see the difference” at CONEXPO, as they highlighted ‘The New CASE. What did you see?

Wilson: CASE Construction Equipment division’s biggest difference is a commitment to and investment in its dealer network, manufacturing quality products, as well as committing to being a leader in developing new products and getting them to market. This began with CASE DL550 Minotaur Compact Track Loader/Dozer and continues with their EV Series of Electric Mini-Excavators, Compact Track Utility Loaders and more.

The CASE Booth touted over 30 new machines, attachments and technology. What new products from CASE are you excited about and why?

Wilson: Obviously, the Minotaur is front and center as THE new product…we are expecting delivery of new units within the next 30 days at Contractors Machinery (CMI). Other new products such as mini-wheel loaders, wheeled excavators and the new SV utility backhoe will be additional products that CMI will inventory and provide to our clients

People are excited about the Minotaur DL550 compact dozer loader, what kind of game changer is this for your customers?

CASE Minotaur DL550

Wilson: The Minotaur has been thoroughly tested and creates a completely new product segment in the equipment industry. The ability to have a machine-controlled crawler dozer that easily becomes a loader is ideal for those in the dirt moving business.

Why is it important for CMI to be present at CONEXPO?

Wilson: It enables us to see the latest innovations in our industry from throughout the world. Additionally, it is an opportunity to look at potential other equipment lines that CMI may want to carry for our East TN customer base. We picked up Toro at the last CONEXPO in 2020 and it has been an excellent addition to our line-up.

CONEXPO gives a good indication of what’s happening in the construction industry as a whole. How is it feeling to you?

Wilson: The old school construction industry stereotype is changing rapidly. The industry is strong, but the future needs, and requires, young people to get involved. The take-away from CONEXPO is, if you want to be part of a dynamic, fun, high-tech industry, male or female, this is a great place.

The construction industry is evolving and advancing in many ways. What new technologies or equipment did you see that impressed you?

Wilson: Machine controls are amazing for most of the heavy equipment manufacturers. Video game players will be the operators of the future. CASE Construction’s acquisition of Raven Technologies will be a game changer for both the Agricultural and Construction sides of CASE in the very near future.

What innovations are you seeing in hydrogen-powered or electric-powered construction equipment?

Wilson: Nearly every manufacturer had electric-powered equipment on display at CONEXPO. Electric will have a place in certain segments of our industry, but battery life, universal charging stations, etc., remain a question. The CASE Concept “Tetra” Wheel Loader has a methane engine and, on paper, seems like a great potential use of resources and an efficient machine for the waste management industry.

One last question Blake: Did you win or lose at the tables?  

Wilson: There were moments of success but as usual the House came out ahead.

The next CONEXPO event is scheduled for March 3-7, 2026, in Las Vegas.

Read More
1 2

Recent Posts
YouTubeFacebookLinkedIntwitter ABOUT US
EQUIPMENT
PARTS & SERVICE
CAREERS
CONTACT US
Knoxville
865-982-6452		 Tri-Cities
423-975-9111
Parts & Service
M-F 7am-5pm
M-F 8am-5pm
Sales
blake@cmicase.com
Service
eric@cmicase.com