Farmers looking to upgrade their telehandler were offered new candidates at the LAMMA show.
Updates that create JCB’s third-generation Loadall range include up to 200kg more lift capacity for the 6m and 7m machines, and a new four-speed powershift transmission to partner the least powerful (109hp) engine option.
TorqueLock4 provides a 40kph top speed and torque converter lock-up for the first time, bringing quicker yard-to-field journeys and more efficient direct-drive to operators who use their machines for relatively light yard work most of the time.
But the main change is the installation of a new cab said to address shortcomings of the current design.
The Command Plus cab has a single sheet of curved glass stretching from a low scuttle to beyond the operator’s head to provide significantly better forwards and upwards visibility.
No fewer than four washer-wipers sweep 92% of this glass and an uprated ventilation and heating system is designed to rapidly clear frost and condensation.
More complex automotive-style rubber seals are designed to keep noise and dust out of the cab, where there is 60% more storage.
A more logical control layout is also evident, including switches on the seat armrest to independently control engine and ground speeds when the DualTech VT combined hydrostatic/powershift transmission is fitted.
Meanwhile, Manitou signalled an expanding range of articulated telescopic wheeled loaders by showing a machine smaller than the single 3.3 tonne lift MLA introduced last year.
Weighing in at a little under five tonnes, the newcomer will be badged ML-A 516-75H. It is powered by a 74hp Deutz engine through a choice of two-speed 20kph or three-speed 30kph hydrostatic transmissions.
Lockable diffs on both axles help maintain traction, whether 500/45×20 flotation or narrower, but grippier tyres in soft conditions are fitted.