For modern agriculture in South Africa, the telehandler has become the ultimate material handler, offering versatility that surpasses traditional tractors with loaders. If you're investing in new farm equipment, choosing the right machine is critical for productivity and profitability.

‍

‍Why Choose a Telehandler Over a Loader Attachment on a Tractor?

‍

A telehandler offers the advantage of greater travel speed and rough terrain manoeuvrability. Additionally, a telehandler’s telescopic boom provides superior reach and lift height for stacking bales, loading high-sided trailers, and accessing feed bins. Paired with multi-mode steering, it delivers exceptional manoeuvrability in tight farmyards.

‍

4 Essential Considerations of Telehandler Selection

‍

‍1. Capacity and Reach are Non-Negotiable

‍

The first step is determining the heaviest and highest task you perform.

• Lift Capacity: What is the maximum weight (kg/tonnes) you routinely lift? Always check the load chart—the capacity decreases as the boom extends further forward.
• Lift Height: Will you be stacking bales 6m high or just 4m? Ensure the maximum lift height meets your tallest loading requirement.

Manitou’s MLT-X range and MXT840/MXT1740 telehandlers offer a variety of lift capacities and heights to suit your needs.

‍

2. Power, Performance, and Terrain Management

‍

South African farms present varied surfaces, requiring machines built for durability and traction.

• Engine Power (HP): Higher horsepower is necessary for operating hydraulic attachments and navigating inclines with heavy loads.
• Tyre Selection: Choose specialized agricultural tyres for soft fields and better traction, or industrial tyres for resilience on hard yards and concrete.
• Transmission: Hydrostatic transmissions provide precise handling crucial for stacking, while torque converter options may offer better push and pull/towing power.
• LSU System: The LSU system is designed for high hydraulic productivity, offering optimised flow management, better fuel efficiency and more efficient cooling.

‍

3. Versatility Through Attachments

‍

The power of a telehandler lies in its flexibility. Determine the core tasks you need it to handle.

• Attachment Compatibility: Ensure the machine's hitching system is compatible with key agricultural tools like bale clamps, manure grapples, grain buckets, pallet forks as well as big bag handlers. Manitou’s Easy Connect System with hydraulic locking ensures fast and secure attachment exchange.
• Manoeuvrability: Look for 4-wheel steering modes to ensure the machine can efficiently navigate the size and layout of your sheds and processing areas.

‍

4. Safety and After-Sales Support

‍

A long-term investment requires confidence in safety and continuous operation.

• Operator Safety: Prioritise features like ROPS/FOPS certified cabs, load sensing systems, and good visibility.
• Dealer Support: Choose a dealer, like Manitou Centre South Africa, that guarantees reliable service, access to genuine spare parts, and a strong network of technicians to minimise costly downtime.

‍

Invest Wisely in Your Farm's Future

By focusing on these four pillars - Capacity, Power, Versatility, and Support - you ensure that your telehandler investment maximises productivity and is perfectly suited to the demands of South African farming. 

‍