Mastodon FAQ
Q. Why would I want an electro-variable mulcher instead of a 2-speed?
A. Tuning a 2-speed motor involves setting the displacement of the motor, setting the pressure point for the shift and involves special equipment. The electro-variable motor simply needs to have the skid loader’s gpm set in the app, and it sets itself up. Additionally, the shift is infinitely variable with 40% more torque than competing mulchers.
Q. Did DFM invent the electro-variable motor?
No. The motor is a Parker Hannifin and the electro-variable motors are widely used in advanced modern hydraulic systems. DFM has adapted this motor for use in the Mastodon using a patented shifting method designed for forestry mulchers.
Q. How long have you been making a SmartDrive?
A. We’ve been making the direct drivetrain for more than 10 years and the SmartDrive for 8 years. This represents many thousands of hours of real-world customer operation.
Q. How does the E-Tech SmartDrive work?
A. The system is super simple. Two sensors feed info into an ECU, the ECU sends voltage to a solenoid. The electro-variable motor’s displacement or torque is controlled by the solenoid. It will shift from 160cc to 2,200rpms on hydraulic flows from 20 to 55gpm. The Mastodon system is always adjusting for maximum performance.
Q. How does the SmartDrive get electric power?
A. The system needs a constant 12v source. Most skid steers already provide this through their electrical accessory plug. For machines without an accessory plug, DFM offers a simple kit that plugs into the machine’s 12-volt power outlet.
Q. What happens if the SmartDrive loses electric power?
A. The mulcher will still be operate. If the system loses power the hydraulic motor will default to max displacement.
Q. Do other manufacturers offer a SmartDrive?
A. No. Only the Mastodon has an rpm based shifting mechanism which allows for a smooth, consistent torque curve. DFM was the first to bring a forestry mulcher with an electro-variable motor to the market. No other manufacturer has a system this powerful.
Q. Can I operate a Mastodon with the hydraulic system on my skid loader?
A. Yes, the SmartDrive will shift smoothly no matter what type of system the skid loader is running.
Q. Why does the Mastodon have a Bluetooth connection?
A. The connection allows the mulcher to connect to a smartphone app so the operator can select the correct GPM flow for the skid.
Q. If I lose Bluetooth connection will the Mastodon still operate?
A. Yes, the connection in only for the initial set-up. The Mastodon does NOT need a Bluetooth connection to operate.
Q. How often do I have to tune the mulcher?
A. Only once. The operator simply tells the mulcher how much volume the skid has and after that the SmartDrive will never have to be re-tuned
Q. Can I be sure the software on the SmartDrive will still operate in the future?
A. Yes, the electronics and app are Parker Hannifin which is one of the most recognizable hydraulic companies in the world with over 100 years in business.
Q. Do I have to monitor the system pressure while I operate a Mastodon?
A. No, the operator does not have to monitor system or case drain pressure. This is why there is no pressure gauge mounted on the Mastodon. The SmartDrive automatically adjusts torque based on the size and load on the mulcher drum. The operator’s job is simple: put the drum into the material and let SmartDrive manage the power.
For any additional questions please call: (405) 562-7376