Massey Ferguson introduces new range of telehandlers

Massey Ferguson has announced a significant upgrade to its telehandler portfolio, with the introduction of a new six-model range with a design based around the ‘neo-retro’ design of the 8S tractor series and an improved operator comfort zone.

The range comprises two semi-compact machines, with 100hp engines and 100 litre per minute hydraulic systems. Lift capacity for both of these models is 3,000kg, with lift heights of 6m or 6.75m. The TH 7030 is also available as a standard frame unit, retaining the 100hp power unit and hydraulic system but with a 7m boom height and maximum capacity of 3,500kg.

The remaining three standard frame telehandlers offer capacities from 3,400kg to 4,300kg, lifting to 6.5m, 7m or 7.5m. These models feature a larger 135hp engine and 190 litre per minute hydraulics.

Across the range, a four-speed hydrostatic transmission puts power to the ground. A new hand throttle has been integrated into the control panel, allowing the operator to independently control engine and forward speeds when operating feeding or bedding equipment, or using a yard sweeper. Further adjustments can be made thanks to the Dynamic Drive system, which changes the shuttle aggressiveness and throttle response.

Both 100 litre and 190 litre hydraulic systems are load-sensing with proportional electro-hydraulic control. Using the Smart Handling System (SHS), operators can also set maximum flow rates for smooth and accurate operation.

The company has further added the Cushion Retract feature, designed for provide a smoother operation and extend the life of components. As an option, electric control can be specified for fourth and fifth services to operate demanding implements such as straw choppers and feeding buckets.

The comfort zone

A new cabin has been designed specifically for the range, with a rounded, asymmetric shape and wide-opening door. An air-suspended seat is included as standard, and there is a heated seat option (taken from the tractor portfolio) which responds automatically to the severity of the bumps and has automated height and weight adjustment.

The cab is said to be far quieter than previous generations, even with the windows open. Measurements show a reduction of 1.5dBA when travelling on the road, with a reduction of between 2-3dBA during loading operations, along with minimal noise intensity and tone.

Visibility is ensured thanks to the curved design and a lower profile bonnet shape, providing a clear view to the rear three-quarter right hand side. Aiding this are the new mirrors, mounted at a higher position.

For control of the machine, Massey Ferguson has integrated the Power Control lever on the left of the steering column as standard. This provides fingertip operation of the directional shuttle, movement up and down the speed ranges and neutral.

On the right hand side, a new five-inch colour terminal displays operating information and can be used to select the steering modes (including the new semi-crab setting) with an intuitive menu to navigate through and an automatic feed from the optional rear camera. This can be upgraded to a seven-inch terminal, which offers additional functionality included adjustment of the hydraulic flows and allows the operator to view detailed job management information.

Furthermore it comes with Bluetooth connection and an integral phone microphone, installed on the dash, alongside radio and music settings.

Full control

Specifically designed for the range, the latest multi-function joystick is said to require at least 20% less effort than its predecessor. A three-position rocker on the rear face is used to select forward, reverse and neutral, while a new bucket shake option is also integrated and linked to the joystick movement.

Behind the joystick, a control pad provides easy operation of the new terminal, including radio and phone controls if the seven-inch display is specified and to the right is the new hand throttle.

As an option, users can have the joystick mounted on the armrest to take full advantage of the additional comfort.

Commenting on the new launch, Thierry Lhotte, vice president and managing director of Massey Ferguson, Europe and the Middle East, said: “MF TH Telehandlers already have a strong reputation for excellent performance, productivity, visibility and manoeuvrability. These new models now introduce the most exciting developments in 10 years’ of MF TH production. This is not just an upgrade – it is a breakthrough.”