Masonry Magazine March 2005 Page. 20
TELEHANDLERS
The Caterpillar product line now includes two additional telehandlers, the TH210 and TH215. Designed for customers who require a versatile material-handling machine in a small package, the TH210 has a rated load capacity of 4,850 pounds and maximum lift height of 17 feet. The larger TH215 carries a 5,500-pound load to a maximum lift height of 18.1 feet. Both machines are equipped with a Cat 3054B diesel engine, rated at 84 gross horsepower. The engine provides reliable performance and excellent fuel efficiency working in conjunction with a high-pressure, closed-circuit hydrostatic drive to deliver powerful, smooth acceleration and continuous torque through two speed ranges. The engine is fully compliant with the latest emission regulations.
The TH210 and TH215 are equipped with a standard enclosed cab, certified to provide falling object and rollover protection. The standard suspension seat and steering wheel are adjustable to accommodate operator preferences. An air suspension seat is available as an option. A low-profile design, side-mounted engine and low boom pivot point allow the operator to carry loads in a low position without obstructing visibility to the right of the machine. The mid-mounted cab also improves the viewing area to the rear.
At the other extreme, Caterpillar introduced the TH580B telehandler, the largest in its new B-Series line. The TH580B features a four-section boom that enables the machine to lift loads as high as 56 feet and to reach forward 42 feet. The TH580B has a rated load capacity of 11,000 pounds and features three steering modes two-wheel, crab and circle steer - for agile maneuvering in tight spaces.
Flannegan Western (FW), Emmetsburg, lowa, sees a need for a compact telehandler that can be transported to the job site with a three-quarter ton pickup and a 12,000 GVWR trailer. The FW telehandler is only 11'4" long x 7' wide x 7'4" high and was designed using standard and modular components that are used throughout Flannegan Western products. Mike Flannegan says, "Our experience in the construction industries allows us to produce a high-performance telehandler that will meet the needs of both the residential and commercial contractors alike."
The FW design features two-wheel or four-wheel drive models, and 32, 45, or 65 HP engines. With an overall width of just seven feet, this telehandler will operate in a confined space. In addition to its numerous productivity-enhancing features, this compact, rugged telehandler incorporates an innovative cab design and easy-to-use joystick controls. Various attachments make this a very versatile telehandler.
Gehl Company, West Bend, Wis, has made significant improvements to its 6,000- and 8,000-pound RS Series rough