News

New Merlo Turbofarmer

As Italian-made Merlo telehandlers continue to gain in market appeal, yet another new model has arrived on the market here, this time a top-of-the-line TF65.9T-170-HF Turbofarmer variant whose appeal will be almost equally shared among farm buyers, industrial and construction users.

Finished in familiar Merlo-green livery, the new, high capacity TF65.9T-170-HF range comprises three model variants. Beginning with the TF65.9 unit, it includes a TF65.9TCS-170-HF and range-topping TF65.9TCS-170 CVTRONIC-HF choice. All powered by a Stage 5-compliant 4.5-litre, 4-cylinder, 170hp turbodiesel engine with DPF and SCR system, attributes include a maximum lifting capacity of 6,500kg, a maximum lifting height of 8.8m, and a top speed of 40km/h.

Other stand out features include hydrostatic transmission, EPD electronic control, load sensing hydraulics, transversal levelling, and a spacious 1,010mm wide FOPS and ROPS-certified modular cab. The TF65.9 can be equipped with fork lifts, work cage, materials grab and bale clamps, loader bucket, crane hook and cables and other boom attachments alongside down-to-earth cleaning brushes and snow blade.

Compact dimensions increase the new unit’s manoeuvrability while two front and two rear cab-mounted halogen-type work lights add to its versatility. Other features setting it apart are its electronic joystick control with capacity sensor and its ASCS safety system. On a 10in colour screen, operators can access a range of key data: items such as load and stability, the geometric limits of machine use, speed and adjustment of hydraulic settings, and information on the amount of loads handled is recorded and stored – updated in real time, according to operating conditions.

Safety-wise, an integrated safety system controls operating parameters while a ‘load control’ system automatically detects the attachment being used and configures the machine's boom extension and angle and other control variants accordingly. On a broader front, continuously variable transmission increases torque at the wheels at low speeds. On slopes, a frame-levelling feature ensures that loads can be safely lifted.

New ‘high flow’ hydraulics with variable displacement pump and electronically controlled ‘flow sharing’ deliver a maximum flow of 160l/min. A ‘descent by gravity’ feature drastically reduces fuel consumption during working, pick and carry cycles while an automated, press-button function can memorise and return the boom to its working position.

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