ForConstructionPros.com

Is your telehandler more than five years old? While there haven't been any drastic changes with recent telehandler introductions, some subtle changes may be enough to warrant purchasing a new machine for your fleet.

Advances in engines

Some of the most noticeable changes with new telehandler models relate to the engine. For example, with side-mounted configurations, you can take advantage of improved serviceability and visibility, indicates David Baxter, director of marketing and market development for JLG Industries for North America, maker of JLG, Gradall, Lull and SkyTrak brands.

"In general, when an engine is mounted on the side, the compartment has a gullwing engine cover so you can more easily access the engine for service and repairs," he explains. "Along with that comes improved visibility. Instead of having the engine right behind the operator, now it's down to the side so the operator can see over the top of it."

Improved visibility can be critical for jobsites where multiple pieces of equipment and numerous workers are all vying for valuable workspace, says Cyndi Johns, director of equipment and parts sourcing, United Rentals. "The ergonomics of how manufacturers are building the cab translates into greater visibility in all directions," she says. "Jobsites can get really busy. In the past, some machines had blind spots. Now, positioning of the engines and booms mean more visibility for the driver."

Other engine-related advances derive from Tier II and upcoming Tier III emissions requirements. Not only do today's telehandlers offer cleaner-burning engines, they are, in some cases, more fuel efficient, as well as higher in horsepower.