Forklifts Come Out in Droves at the World of Concrete

Several new or updated forklifts made their debut earlier this month at the World of Concrete show in Las Vegas. Here are some of the highlights.

Wacker Neuson’s First U.S. Telehandler 

Wacker Neuson has unveiled its first telehandler for the U.S. market. Introduced at World of Concrete, the TH522 can lift up to 4,100 lbs. and has a maximum lifting height of 16’7”. More than a simple pick-and-place telehandler, the TH522 can also dig and handle material like a wheel loader and use a variety of attachments like a skid-steer loader. It meets Tier 4 Final emission standards and features a fully enclosed cab as standard equipment. The TH522 is the first model in a family of telehandlers that Wacker will offer in North America.

New Manitou Truck-Mounted Telehandler

Manitou’s World of Concrete display featured a host of telehandlers and vertical-mast forklifts that now have Tier 4 Final engines. All of the models with the new top-tier engines have been released since last fall. After-treatment methods vary by the type and model of machine. One brand new product on display was the TMT 55HT-4W truck-mounted telehandler, which can lift up to 5,500 lbs. and can lift 1,650 lbs. to its 11’3” maximum lifting height without stabilizers, or lift 5,500 lbs. to its maximum height when its stabilizers are deployed. The TMT 55HT-4W’s other features include four-way steering, easy-to-read gauge cluster, FOPS and ROPS protection, and a 6,200-lb. weight.

Redesigned Telehandlers from Cat

Caterpillar used World of Concrete to launch its new D generation of telehandlers, which represent a complete redesigning from the previous generation of Cat telehandlers. The new family was represented by the TL642D, which can pick up a maximum of 6,500 lbs. and can lift 6,000 lbs. to its 42-ft. maximum lifting height. It can also lift 700 lbs. at its 30-ft. maximum forward reach. Other models have 9,000-, 10,000-, and 12,000-lb. capacities and respective lifting heights of 43, and 55 ft. All four models feature engines that meet Tier 4 Final emission standards. All feature lower weight, improved operator visibility, and easier service access than earlier models. Each model can use existing Cat attachments. 

Pettibone Unveils New Extendo

Pettibone has debuted its newest Extendo telehandler, the 1157B, which has 11,000-lb. maximum capacity, 42’1” maximum forward reach, and 57’0” maximum lifting height. Other new or updated models in the Extendo family include the 944B and 1144B. All three models feature offer excellent visibility, a new Parker MDS display that includes engine information, and a center-mounted 117-hp diesel engine that meets Tier 4 Final emission regulations and runs so quietly you can hear the exhaust fan. Also, new hatches permit easy access for daily checks and maintenance.

Redesigned Genie GTH-844

Genie has introduced an updated version of its 8,000-lb.-capacity GTH-844 telehandler equipped with a 74-hp diesel engine that delivers 287 lb.-ft. of torque and meets Tier 4 Final emission standards without a particulate filter or SCR after-treatment. For ultra-demanding applications, Genie also offers the GTH-844 with a 99-hp Tier 4 Final diesel engine. Other updates include Dana axles with two gear ratios, a quick-attach system, low-profile tires, a lift shackle under the boom tip, a storage compartment for rigging equipment, a new more durable seat, and an optional rear proximity alarm. The machine still measures just 97.5 in. wide and 94 in. high so it can fit through 8-ft. openings and be transported without an over-width permit.

New 74-HP Skyjack Telehandlers

Skyjack has rolled out a new line of telehandlers that use 74-hp engines, yet match the power and performance of telehandlers with engines of 110-hp or more. The new TH Series currently has four models with maximum lifting capacities from 6,000 to 10,000 lbs. and maximum lifting heights from 43’4” to 56’3”. They replace Skyjack’s previous “TV” Series telehandlers. The new TH models meet Tier 4 Final emission standards without a particulate filter or SCR exhaust treatment. They also offer simplified rear-axle stabilization, hydraulics, outriggers, controls, servicing, and electronics. Skyjack says the new TH models fit the company’s “simply reliable” philosophy and carry competitive prices.