Mini telehandler has big potential says JCB

JCB has launched its smallest-ever telehandler, the 515-40 Miniscopic.

The machine is only 1.8m high, 3.2m long to the front of the carriage, 1.56m wide and weighs less than 3.5t, but it can lift a 1.5t load to 4m or 750kg to its maximum 2.5m outreach. Individual Poclain wheel motors provide four-wheel drive and incorporate a limited-slip function, while four-wheel steering gives a 2.8m turning circle meaning the machine is ideal for working on confined sites and soft ground conditions.

A 'C' shaped chassis allows the cab (based on the 520-40 Loadall) to drop into the middle, reducing the overall height and removing the need for an entry step, while retaining operator headroom. The fuel tank forms the front of the chassis and replaces the front axle carrying the wishbone and front wheel motors.

An elongated hydraulic tank fits to the right of the boom (above the cooling system) and requires a fluid change every 2,000 hours (with intermediate filter change), while an inching function on the brake pedal allows the maximum auxiliary flow to attachments while controlling forward/reverse speed. The 37kW four-cylinder Deutz engine is a partial counterweight allowing the Miniscopic to place a 1t load on the far side of a 2m wide trailer.

The ROPS/FOPS cab shares the 520-40's dashboard and controls and is fitted with a rear-hinged stable door, a suspended seat and options include aircon, working lights, a screen guard and road lights. An eye-level audio-visual load moment indicator warning system and self-levelling forks (with an adjustable boss to compensate for wear) are standard and buyers can choose from the compact Loadall or skid steer quick hitch systems.