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Over the years, the telehandler fleet has grown to 21 units, including eight of the older model 844C-42 machines, six model 644E-42s, three model 944E-42s and four model 1044C-54s. With this mix, Duff has the capability to lift loads ranging from 6,000 to 10,000 lbs. and to a maximum lift height of 54 ft.

Despite over 28 years in the construction business - the last 16 years as foreman - Tokarz has used only Lull telehandlers. He appreciates many things about them.

“The Lull’s tight turning radius sure comes in handy on a crowded jobsite like this one, and the load placement system, with its 80 in. of horizontal boom travel, really makes it easy to precisely land the loads,” says Tokarz. “And because the telehandler has a low center of gravity, it feels a lot more stable.”

The machines have also proven very reliable. “They hardly ever need repairs,” he adds.

Ron Paver, a telehandler operator for Duff and a 25-year construction industry veteran, especially likes the model 944E-42’s tight turning radius, the ergonomic layout of the controls and the side-mounted engine.

“Because of the 944E’s side-mounted engine, there is nothing to obstruct my field of vision,” he states. “I can see things out of the corner of my eyes, while keeping my eyes focused on the area directly in front of me as I am driving the telehandler. That is critical when trucks are zooming all around me, particularly when I stop at intersections to make sure it’s clear before I cross.”