The new unit is equipped with two 7in (178mm) LED displays for a direct, transparent view into all critical machine functions and diagnostics. In addition to the digital displays, the machine's real-time carriage-position indicator tells the operator the exact carriage location. A multifunctional, radial operator control is highlighted on the display for better control efficiency, including mud flow, rotation and more, the company explained. New to the JT40, tracker information is integrated into the advanced displays for better visibility into all job-site functions beyond drill operation.

Seth Matthesen, Ditch Witch senior product manager for horizontal directional drills, said: "The unit integrates machine data into an innovative display to keep operators informed and productive on the job. As with all of our products, we continue to seek customer feedback to improve uptime, profitability and performance, and this machine features several new pending patents to do exactly that."

The machine features a 160hp, Tier 4 Cummins diesel engine and a two-speed, rotational drive system that produces 5,500ft-lbs (7,457Nm) of torque. The machine minimises pipe-entry distance, giving operators increased drill pipe support as it enters the ground. According to Ditch Witch, the drill holds up to 600ft (183m) of drill pipe on board, allowing for longer bores and increased ROI.

The JT40 is available with the option of a fully enclosed cab or an open operator's station designed with integrated vandal covers.

Featuring an add-a-pipe design, operators are able to manually insert multiple sticks of drill pipe once the pipe box is empty.