Telehandlers

Telehandlers, Booms, and Lifts: Finding a Trustworthy, Used Machine

Construction machines go through a lot, but they are built to withstand heavy loads and rugged conditions. Choosing a used telehandler is a smart choice for new business owners. Here are some of the ways to find a trustworthy machine on eBay.

Used telehandlers offer a range of reach capacity, load capacity, and other options. When choosing a telehandler, it is important to find out as much about its history as possible. Fortunately, a great deal can be determined through visual inspection and some well-considered questions for the owner. Here are a few features worth noting:

• Tires - Check tread wear and sidewalls for damage. Foam tires are rugged but more expensive. Pneumatic tires are less expensive but can puncture.
• Welds and repairs - A careful inspection of the telehandlers structural frame will help you know whether or not it is capable of taking on a heavy load.
• Cab maintenance - Controls can show some wear, but a well-maintained telehandler will have no need for protruding wires or duct tape.
• Attachments - Check for attachments that match the booms specifications. An overloaded attachment can damage the machines integrity.
• Maintenance Records - A good telehandler will have had some maintenance. Ask about any documented maintenance records.

Some of the most renowned telehandle brands include the following:

• JCB: A JCB telehandler offers fewer stress points than other models. Finding a JCB telehandler for sale isnt impossible, but there are other brands and models worth a deep dive.
• JLG: A JLG telehandler offers access attachments that include telescopic forklifts as well as work platforms. What differentiates this lift from others is the lull forklifts 7-foot reach option. Operators can reach and retract without having to move additional equipment.
• Skytrak: Skytrak forklifts are another reputable telehandler brand fitted with lull lifts. Other brands and models like Ingersoll, Kubota, Genie, John Deere, and Caterpillar have loyal followings and solid reputations.

Older models lack some of the safety features that are required. ROPS, or roll-over protection structures, are necessary for operator safety and lower insurance rates. The same is true for FOPS or falling object protective structures.

The American Society of Agricultural Engineers certify ROPS and FOPS. A certification label will be on a machine that has achieved this standard of safety. It is worth noting that ROPS and FOPS safety frames work best when the operator is wearing a seatbelt. When choosing a safe machine for yourself or your employees, check the integrity of the telehandlers seat belts.