One all Wheel Steer Utility Work Machine

The Maine Department of Transportation is requesting bids for one all-wheel steer utility work machine with a bid due date of May 19, 2008. In cases of tie bids, the State grants preference to in-state bidders or those offering commodities produced or manufactured in Maine.

The machine must be a diesel-powered, heavy-duty unit with a minimum 56 net horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder diesel engine, hydrostatic drive with full-time four-wheel drive and two or four-wheel steering, and a fully enclosed ROPS/FOPS cab with air conditioning. The unit must feature an integral hydraulic quick coupler system capable of operating a loading bucket and snow blower, a hydraulically operated 16 cubic-foot dump body, and an auxiliary high-flow hydraulic pump system. Maximum operating weight is 4,900 pounds with a travel speed of 20 mph. Cooling systems must be rated for -30 degrees. The machine must accommodate Bobcat-compatible attachments and include a snow blower with minimum 66-inch cutting width and hydraulic discharge chute.

All equipment must be current or 2007 manufacturer stock models meeting or exceeding stated requirements. Bidders must submit pricing separately for the base machine and optional accessories. The successful bidder must deliver the equipment to Maine DOT Fleet Service in Augusta and provide manufacturer's manuals, two days of operator training, and a comprehensive parts and service availability proposal demonstrating 95 percent parts availability within 48 hours. Vendors must maintain or have access to parts inventory within Maine with 24-hour availability for expendable items. Bids are evaluated on lowest responsible bidder offering best value, considering quality, conformance to specifications, delivery dates, and overall economy. Cash discounts of 20 days or more factor into the award determination. The State reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to increase or decrease quantities by up to 10%.