Graders and Loaders

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is requesting bids on heavy equipment including articulated motor graders and wheel loaders with a proposal due date of September 19, 2011. The requisition specifies 23 articulated 3-axle motor graders, 14 two-cubic-yard wheel loaders, 3 three-cubic-yard wheel loaders, and 4 three-cubic-yard wheel loaders equipped to carry and operate a 10,000-pound snow blower. Quantities may be adjusted based on pricing received from bidders. In-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine receive preference in case of tie bids.

All motor graders must be heavy-duty diesel-powered with minimum 160 net horsepower, 500 lb./ft. torque, Tier IV emissions compliance, sequential transmission with minimum 8 forward and 4 reverse gears, pressurized ROPS cab, and dual independent hydraulic brake circuits. Graders require a minimum 12-foot moldboard blade with 25-inch ground penetration, minimum 29,000-pound operating weight, and maximum 11-foot transport height. Wheel loaders must meet EPA Tier 3 emissions standards with heavy-duty diesel engines, four-wheel drive articulating design, hydraulic systems rated at 40 gpm minimum flow at 4,000 PSI, and SAE-rated bucket capacity as specified. All equipment must include five-year manufacturer extended warranty covering 5,000 hours, whichever comes first. Delivery is to Maine DOT Fleet Services at 105 Capitol Street, Augusta, Maine. Vendors must certify Maine service facilities, trained technicians, and parts availability; provide specification sheets; and deliver factory-certified training across Maine DOT's five regions, including minimum four hours operator training and sixteen hours technician training at each of five maintenance facilities.

Bidders must submit electronic quotes by 2:00 p.m. local time on September 19, 2011, with unit prices separately for each item. All transportation charges are prepaid at the contractor's expense. The State is exempt from federal and state sales and use taxes. Awards will be made on per-item or group basis serving the State's best interest, with the State reserving the right to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10 percent and reject any or all quotes. Successful bidders on graders with buy-back options must provide faithful performance bonds equal to 100% of guaranteed buy-back amounts.