"Also, in northern climates you will have to think about cold and corrosion from road treatments," Peacock adds. "There has to be a degree of localization, typically based on climate, that can change maintenance considerations."

Operator influence
The manner in which a telehandler is operated can influence the maintenance schedule, and whether additional types of maintenance will be required. "Operators can minimize wear and tear on a machine by following the routine maintenance and inspection schedules, and by using the machine within the parameters for which it is intended," says Boeckman.

If the machine is continually overloaded, it puts extra stress onto the structures, which may cause premature wear. "Always read the load charts to see what the machine can handle in any given point in its cycle to ensure you don't overload it," Blower emphasizes.

Smooth movements are also better for the machine. "Drive and operate the unit in a smooth manner with consideration of terrain, jobsite conditions and the load," says Wheeler.

"When you're traveling, the boom should be retracted and the arm fully retracted to minimize shock," adds Peacock. "Although the machine is designed to work with the boom out, you should only do so when needed."