Tools of the Trade:

When tough conditions stand in the way, Cass County Electric Cooperative’s (CCEC) Prinoth Panther T-8 helps our crews get the job done.

Many members picture the Prinoth in winter, gliding over deep snow to reach downed lines and restore power after storms. It is just as valuable in the warmer months. In spring and summer, the tracked utility vehicle can cross muddy fields, wetlands, and riverbanks where traditional trucks would sink. Its low ground pressure spreads weight evenly and allows it to travel where wheels cannot.

CCEC’s Prinoth Panther T-8 is equipped with a Terex Digger Derrick, which makes it a dual-purpose machine. It can be used as a bucket unit for overhead work and as a pole setter when new infrastructure is needed. This flexibility allows crews to accomplish more with fewer pieces of equipment, saving time and resources.

Safety is always the priority. The Prinoth’s electronic controls and safeguards ensure that it can only be operated under proper conditions, helping protect lineworkers as they navigate challenging terrain.

The Prinoth is not used every day because of its high operating costs, but it becomes indispensable when conditions demand it. Whether navigating snow in January or crossing saturated fields in June, the Prinoth helps crews respond faster and more effectively. Durable, versatile, and designed for tough terrain, it is a vital tool in CCEC’s fleet. The Prinoth helps keep members’ lights on in every season.