The Merlo telehandlers distributor, McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill, has introduced the new Turbofarmer (TF) range on the market here. Merlo claims the product is aimed at agricultural and construction users alike. The new range consists of three models with two lift capacities, 3.8t and 4.2t, two lift heights, 7m and 10m, and some 20 different spec combinations. All have a newly designed chassis and the range-specific TF model designation.

The entry level unit is the TF38.7, which features include a 3.8t lift with a 7m reach. Models offering the same 3.8t lift with longer 10m reach are the more powerful TF38.10 units. Their features include frame levelling with side shift, cab suspension, CVT transmission and the option of a 120hp or 156hp Tier 4-compliant Deutz motor that delivers 16hp more than the model it replaces.

McHale Plant Sales expects the biggest selling model in the new range to be the 4.1t, 10m high TF42.7, powered by the larger of the two engines and fitted with a particulate filter, EGR and catalyst to minimise emissions.

In design terms, the new range comes with a restyled engine compartment that delivers more space, with engines now mounted lengthways and the radiator set parallel to the ground.

To improve operator comfort, cab width has been extended and the layout redesigned. New features include a new instrument cluster, improved visibility and a monitor displaying lift and weight information that doubles as an on-board weighing system.

Another change from the previous model is that the steering orbital unit is now fitted remotely outside the cab to reduce noise and heat generation.

Standard on the new model is a reversible fan that runs according to engine temperature and is designed to use less horsepower while the engine is cool, a feature that Merlo claims is 18% more fuel efficient than the previous models.

Hydraulic system improvements see oil flow raised up from 91 litres/minute to 106 litres/minute (gear pump OC) and from 135 litres/minute to 160 litres/minute (piston pump CCLS). All systems run at a maximum operating pressure of 210 bar.