Skid-Steer Loader Tractor (for Richmond Crew)

The State of Maine Division of Purchases is soliciting bids for a skid-steer loader tractor for the Richmond Crew, with bids due October 9, 2007. This is a specification-driven procurement with no flexibility on the base unit — John Deere Model 320 or equivalent — establishing a tight capability filter for qualified bidders.

The scope requires a rubber-tired, all-wheel drive diesel-powered skid-steer loader with a minimum 1,950-pound SAE-rated operating capacity, 115-inch minimum lift height, and 66 gross horsepower 4-cylinder diesel engine. Mandatory equipment includes quick-latch two-lever attachment mounting, ROP and FOPS certification, operator presence system with seat belt interlock, boom locks operable from the operator seat, and deluxe instrumentation (battery voltage, hour meter, engine coolant and transmission/hydraulic oil temperature, air filter and hydraulic oil filter restriction, fuel level, park brake status, seat belt engagement). Additional mandatory items are auxiliary front hydraulics with couplers, four 12 by 16.5 pneumatic lug tires with 10-ply rating, automatic preheat system, front and rear tie-down rings, 55-amp minimum alternator, 12-volt 750 cold cranking amp battery, and 9.5 inches minimum ground clearance. Optional equipment includes a 72-inch construction bucket, 48-inch pallet forks, backup alarm, cab enclosure, heater/defroster kit, spare tire and wheel, power quick-latch, rearview mirror kit, quick-latch weights, and rear weight brackets.

Evaluation criteria are quality, conformity with specifications, delivery date, and ultimate cost to the state. Tie bids favor in-state bidders or products manufactured in Maine. The state reserves the right to increase or decrease ordered quantities by up to 10 percent. Unit prices govern in discrepancies with total prices. Bids must be submitted electronically through the state's secure response system. Transportation and freight are the contractor's expense unless otherwise specified. The state is exempt from sales and use taxes.