The new JCB Teleskid combines the capabilities of a forklift, a telescopic handler, a compact loader and a skid steer loader all into one machine, JCB Product Manager Glenn McLeod explains.
JCB’s innovation has led to the development of its new Teleskid, the only skid steer or compact tracked loader with a telescopic boom.
JCB Product Manager Glenn McLeod says the machine combines the components from the company’s range of machines to create a truly unique product.
“It is an amalgamation of a telehandler and a skid steer loader, so it offers the compact versatility of those vehicles along with the manoeuvrability of a skid steer loader,” he says.
The Teleskid also has the added benefit of a telescopic boom, which grants the user a vertical reach of over four metres and a forward reach of more than 2.5 metres.
This level of versatility is what McLeod says enables users to optimise their operations with just one machine.
“Operators can reach out and grab trees and branches or dig below ground for up to 900 millimeters, which is an entirely unique aspect of this product,” he says.
“So, while being just as valuable to the conventional construction market, there are so many other applications the machine can be used for.”
The lift capabilities of the Teleskid provide a range of benefits for users, McLeod says. Operators can easily load high sided truck bodies without needing a ramp. This also extends to loading over the top of structures, such as fencing.
This is achieved through the Teleskid’s lift capacity of 1676 kilograms with the boom retracted – or 732 kilograms with the boom fully extended. It is also aided by the cabin design of the machine. Operators can enjoy 60 per cent better visibility than with twin-arm machines.
Pioneering the side cabin access
Another unique feature of the JCB Teleskid is the introduction of the side door cabin access. McLeod explains that the side access offers a range of benefits compared to traditional entry.
“JCB’s Teleskid is the only product of its kind which offers the operator entry and exit through a side door, as opposed to a cabin unit which has the windscreen as the door,” he says. “Having the windscreen as the door can become quite cumbersome for entering and exiting a machine. By having the side access door, it alleviates, if not eliminating, risk of serious injury by transiting under or over the loader frame.”
The side door allows operators to enter and exit the machine without making contact with any of the attachments or lifted materials, removing the risk of serious or fatal injury. Users can also exit the cabin and review the placement of a load, while the boom is raised to mid-height.
McLeod says the enhanced visibility, along with larger cabin space, ensures that the operator is comfortable and aware of the machine’s surroundings.
“Operators can have 270 degrees of unhindered vision, because the boom is single mounted, instead of being double mounted on both sides of the machine,” he says. “Additionally, our cabin is around 25 to 35 per cent larger than any comparable machines on the market.”
This larger cabin space is complemented by ease of operation. The Teleskid features the same controls as JCB’s skid steer design.
“JCB pioneered the twin joystick lever controls back in 1994,” McLeod says.
“It is very easy to operate and easy to understand. The left joystick controls the movement of the machine, with the right-hand joystick controlling the loader, bucket or whatever attachment that the operator is using.”
Controls can also be adjusted through JCB’s ‘myChoice Control Operation Software’. Three settings allow operators to tailor the sensitivity of the joystick movements.
The JCB Smoothride System also supports productivity. Enhanced breakout force lets operators do the work of larger machines in less time. Along with a standard two-speed transmission, the Teleskid cab achieves quicker travel and shorter cycle times.
Seamless transition
JCB’s Teleskid has already proven to be effective in the United States, where it has received positive feedback, particularly from the landscaping sector. With the machine on its way to Australia, McLeod expects that it will be a seamless transition into the Australian market.
“If you look at the way that the US market has embraced it, there is no reason why the Australian market wouldn’t embrace what it can do,” he says.
The Teleskid is backed up by CEA’s support and maintenance network, which currently covers the majority of Australia.
“CEA has branches in every capital city on the mainland, expect for Darwin. We also have a regional network of around 80 dealers, which have progressively grown over the last 15 years,” McLeod says.
“With an established and extensive regional network, we also have a strong presence in rural Australia. With our metro and regional support centres, we have about 99 per cent of the country covered.”
This article was originally published in the December edition of our magazine. To read the magazine, click here.
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