By Tim O’Byrne
Hustler MDV
This past spring I got a chance to test out the Hustler MDV (Maximum Duty Vehicle) 1200 D with patented LeveLift™ bed technology. Both the company and their whole ‘lift bed’ concept were new to me.
Let’s start with the machine itself; roomy cab, basic design, comfortable, and heavy-duty molded plastic dashboard. The first thing that came to mind was “work”. The second thing that came to mind the minute I fired up the Kohler 1003 diesel engine and put it in Forward was “ranch work”. This 3-cylinder 23.4 horse powerplant, combined with the wide, sturdy frame, gives the impression of a solid workhorse. You won’t be winning any races with it, but we’re not in the racing business, we’re in the ‘work hard’ business. This machine was made for WR readers.
Now, let’s move to the lift bed system. Whoever engineered this baby needs a award. With one flick of a switch on the dashboard, the bed rotates (while staying perfectly level) on what can only be described as a heavy-duty crankshaft-type concept. Eventually, the bed terminates level to the ground. Snap open the tailgate and you can load any unit or cargo less than 750 lbs.
But wait…there’s more. The bed will also dump at any height, which gives ranchers another great possibility for moving stuff around without risking a back injury. Go to www.hustlerturf.com for more info.
Hustler MDV
3-cyl liquid-cooled 23.4 hp Kohler diesel
37 mph top speed; 2wd/Awd
4 wheel hydraulic disk brakes
14 gallon fuel capacity
Tows 1650 lbs.
Powered dump bed
LeveLift max cargo capacity 750 lbs.
Accessories: snow blade, winch, work lights, etc.
