The new handlers are available in the UK in traditional Manitou red, and Gehl yellow. They are manufactured at Manitou’s Lille, France factory and come with the same build quality and high standard of finish as larger models in the Manitou range.

Two models

There are two models in each brand – including the ULM (Ultra-Light Manitou) 412H capable of lifting 1,250kg to 4.3m and the ULM 415H with larger diameter lift rams which can lift 1,500kg to 4.3m. Equivalent Gehl versions are the GCT 3-14 and the GCT 3-14+. Weight without an attachment is from only 2,550kg for the ULM 412H, and from 2,700kg for the ULM 415H.

The machines are approximately 30cm narrower than the popular compact MLT625 model, at just 1.49m wide, and 1.92m high. Full lift capacity is available to maximum lift height, and then the boom can be extended forward up to one metre, allowing attachments to reach over the sides of high-sided trailers.

Convenient transport

For transport, a conventional 10x6ft trailer can be used with the boom projecting over the drawbar; but a 12×6 trailer is the best option, suggested the Manitou UK team at the mid-December demonstration.

Target markets include equestrian businesses, dairy farms, hobby farms, horticultural, and livestock rearing enterprises – but the nimble handlers are ideal for operation anywhere space is limited and will have special appeal to businesses with multiple sites.

The ground clearance is 29cm, and 4wd is standard with limited slip differentials front and rear.

The boom has duplex construction made from two U-shaped sections and there is a choice of three headstock options including a four-point carriage, a skid-steer carriage and a Euro carriage. A Manitou-style hitch isn’t available.

Compact but comfortable cab

The cab is narrower than on standard models. At 66cm the internal width is compact but adequate. Controls are on a floating armrest and, like other Manitou machines include double switch buttons which can be moved around the control panel to suit the user and application, and pop-up screen notifications. Manitou versions which are likely to be the most popular for agricultural applications have the JSM joystick. Gehl models, more likely to be sold for industrial and construction site use, have a traditional joystick design.

Even though the cab is smaller than a typical farm handler, there is good all-around vision from the seat. There are no roof bars, and a polycarbonate roof window provides a clear view when handling loads at maximum height. The dashboard and windscreen base are low, so the view to the front is good. The engine hood and boom are low, and hoses are routed internally to maximise the view to the right.

The cab features ROPS and FOPS protection.

Power and flow

Power is from a Yanmar 3-cyl diesel engine with 35.1hp and meeting Stage 5 emissions standards using a diesel oxidation catalyst and a diesel particulate filter.

The transmission is a two-speed hydrostatic. Additional features include ‘inching’ using the braking pedal and an automatic parking brake.

Hydraulic flow is from a standard 48-litres/min gear pump, or a larger 62 litres/min version is an option giving extra flow for auxiliary functions. A flow sharing hydraulic distributor allows operation of multiple functions without sacrificing cycle times. A small 39-litre hydraulic oil supply tank has an anti-aeration filter to remove air bubbles – so that oil returned to the tank is suitable for immediate re-use.

A new electronic carriage angle compensation system uses an angle sensor at the rear of the boom and a carriage rod length sensor inside the bucket cylinder, removing the need for compensation rams and pipework and reducing weight. Advantages include extremely precise operation and reduced carriage drift.

Specify equipment

Manitou models come in three specification levels – Essential, Comfort and Classic. Options include LED lighting with poultry lights available, a reversible cooling fan, and air conditioning which adds 3cm to the overall height. Fuel savings are provided by an automatic stop/start system, which switches off the engine after idling periods from 1–30 minutes. To restart, the user has only to move the joystick or activate the throttle. The manufacturer said that handlers used in construction can spend up to 45% of the time idling, and that specifying the new option saves fuel, reduces emissions, extends the period between servicing and increases residual values, and it has proved popular on other machines in the line-up since it became an option in mid-2021.

Popular tyre options include Mitas TR07 31-15.5-15 agricultural, and Trelleborg 11LR16 industrial – additional options are available from Michelin, Alliance and Camso.

A range of 20 dedicated attachments is available with a range of bracket types, and Manitou expects early demand from poultry enterprises where advantages over skid-steer machines include greater lift capacity and height.

There is no homologation for pulling trailers, but a rear hitch provides limited towing ability around the yard.

Manitou telematics are standard, and free for the first two years. Machines are covered by a standard two-year or 2,000-hour warranty.

Functional design

A look around the machine confirmed that although it is very small, it isn’t short of useful features.

The cab is compact, but with the seat fully back and the steering wheel suitably adjusted, taller drivers can work in reasonable comfort. The upper section of the door can be removed for operation in good weather, and this increases space for the driver’s left arm.

The cab feels much larger than its dimensions suggest – mainly due to the large glass area and excellent visibility. There is no B-pillar on the right-hand side so the view across the boom and engine hood to the front, side and rear is unrestricted.

The test area included a steep slope, and the opportunity to re-handle aggregate making full use of the potential power and capacity.

Even working hard, the quoted 76dB noise level was reasonable, and the handler performed well. The automatic parking brake is a handy feature and makes it easy to stop and pull away again on slopes and achieve controlled operation when loading on uneven ground.

Like larger Manitou models, the JSM joystick has a capacitor sensor which detects when the operator’s hand is present, so there is no need to operate a safety trigger or button before operating the boom.

The overload protection system uses a rear axle sensor to monitor weight reduction on the rear wheels and doesn’t interfere with normal operation. As well as Standard mode, there is Bucket mode which allows maximum break-out force to be achieved, and Suspended load mode which reduces the lift capacity for added safety.

There is a handy lifting point below the attachment carriage for under-slung loads which is standard on all three carriage types, and an external pressure release button makes it easy to swap hydraulic connections for different attachments and implements.

The engine has plenty of power, and cycle times are reasonable, but for basic handling operations faster boom and attachment movements from a slightly more powerful engine and larger pump would increase productivity.

For a small machine, the maximum reach and lift height are impressive, and superior to a skid-steer model for loading high sided trailers or large feed mixers.

Four-wheel steering ensures very good manoeuvrability, and two-wheel steering and crab modes are also available. The steering components are sealed for life reducing the need for routine maintenance.

Verdict

Manitou has designed its new ultra-compact handlers from scratch, with build quality and features which are expected by those used to the brand.

Demand for these smallest models will be limited, but there are many farms where the ability to share a machine between work sites by moving it behind a pick-up on a trailer will appeal.

For its size it is quite comfortable and easy to use, and with back-up available through a network of excellent UK dealers it is an attractive proposition.

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Q. What key features should buyers look for in materials handling equipment?

A. All Ardent’s machines come with air con as standard and many more bells and whistles. Many hire companies tend to order a base spec machine but we include features such as air con, hydraulic fork positioning, chassis levelling, extra protection guards and sound proofing as standard. Also, all our machines have a keypad to help prevent theft. Over the past four years, we’ve helped farmers and large farming buying groups hire materials handling equipment including JCB and Manitou telehandlers. And we’ve helped them to fix their costs whilst providing them with machine specifications and hire durations that match their requirements. This flexibility has been hugely beneficial at a time of uncertainty and change, not only in farming, but the UK economy as a whole.

Q. What brands do you work with and why?

A. The Ardent team has excellent knowledge of JCB and Manitou telehandlers and these make up the most of our fleet, but other brands can be considered. We can also add different headstocks to suit customers attachments. We have been a long-standing customer of both JCB and Manitou for many years now, with relationships at the most senior level. We have confidence in both brands – they are both industry-leading with good service and back up, parts are readily available and the controls are common across the models. We stock a high volume of parts to ensure we can fix machines should they be damaged or have a fault on the first visit.

Q. What’s your most popular product with farmers?

A. The main weapon of choice from our experience is the JCB 532/542/536-95 Agri Super or Xtra telehandler. We have a large number of these in our fleet now – many machines are ordered each year for confirmed hires. These machines are all about horsepower and spec; they are the GTI of telehandlers. They have extra speed, extra hydraulic capacity and speed, and the operator cab environment is that of a high-end car.

Q. Have there been any new additions to the fleet?

A. The latest machine in our fleet which has been a real hit is the JCB 560-80. This machine has the capacity to lift 6 tonnes and can reach 8m; it brings lots of exciting extras and has the appropriate horsepower for a machine of this size. Like the Agri Super/Xtra machines, this machine benefits from the latest generation cab and technology. It has high-capacity lift and the DNA of an agri machine. We constantly review product releases and are often consulted by OEMs to comment on new machines in the testing phase.

Q. What are the benefits of hiring over purchasing?

A. You know what your costs are, and we maintain the machine including servicing and thorough examination certificates – all the hirer is responsible for is damage. In the event of breakdown and if we can’t fix the machine the same day, we will bring a courtesy machine out to be used until the machine is fully repaired, ensuring daily duties can continue. We understand a machine is required for tasks that can’t wait, so minimising downtime is our priority.

Q. Have you had any difficulties sourcing machinery?

A. The Covid pandemic, its aftermath and now the war in Ukraine have resulted in equipment shortages and increases in equipment costs which have been challenging to everyone. However I am proud to say that even if our suppliers haven’t been able to provide equipment, we have always managed to fulfil customer requirements, thanks in part to the large fleet that we run. Sometimes we’ve had to supply a slightly different machine to the one requested, however, we’ve always been able to provide a solution. Making sure we look after our customers is extremely important to us. We look to build long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with customers so we’ll always bend over backwards to try and help them.

Ardent Hire Solutions has around 3,000 telehandlers in its fleet and has one of the youngest telehandler hire fleets in the world. It also has one of the largest fleets in the UK for roto telehandlers; these are becoming more and more popular although there are not many in the agricultural world yet. The business, which has 11 depots and 300 employees, was formed in 2015 following the merger of Fork Rent and One Call Hire, which were acquired by Searchlight Capital and Duke Street.

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SAS Agri offer an ever changing and comprehensive range of new and used agricultural machinery, including telehandlers, spreaders, trailers and tankers. Whilst the company is a specialist in used Bunning and ECE muck spreaders, it also stocks handle muck spreaders, trailers and tankers by other popular manufacturers.

As a small family run business SAS Agri have been able to focus on providing services to increase their customers uptime in the field. Taking on the highest quality used spreaders to provide their farming clients with the good prices of buying secondhand with the confidence of buying new kit.

The company also supports on farm repairs of your machinery to reduce downtime and increase productivity. SAS stock a comprehensive range of spare parts, with a full back-up service for machines it sells and supplies. Spares back-up is complimented by a next-day delivery service with morning and afternoon collections.

SAS Agri have expanded it’s workforce by taking on two new employees to both support the new Merlo franchise and to provide sales and service to their existing offerings.

In March 2020 Richard and Emma bought SAS Agri from its founder Alan Suffling, who started the business back in 2000. Alan has built an excellent reputation within the agricultural world for his knowledge and experience of agricultural machinery and Alan continues to work with Richard and Emma providing guidance and imparting his knowledge.

In 2021 Richard and Emma were approached to join the Merlo dealer network, and offer sales of new and used machines as well as service and repair of the Merlo telehandler range.

When they joined the dealer network Emma Davey was quoted as saying: “Being farmers ourselves, we understand the needs of our customers first-hand. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service and matching the right machine to the right customer.

“We are able to support our customers with our large parts store and the ability to offer service and repair options on farm, or in our large on-site workshop. We feel that the Merlo brand will complement our current range of agricultural machinery and are incredibly proud to be approached to take on this new franchise.”

VIEW WEBSITE HERE

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Fastrac updates

Meeting Stage 5 emissions regulations for both 4000- and 8000-series Fastracs has been achieved by adding a DPF which works with the SCR (AdBlue), but without exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) which was a previous feature of the engines. The new DPF is under the right side of the cab so visibility isn’t affected, and regeneration intervals will coincide with routine dealer servicing although manual regeneration can also be initiated. 4000-series Fastracs have an extended 600-hour service interval, partly due to changing to hydraulic tappets which are already on 8000-series models.

The latest 4000-series tractors have gained heavy duty axles and hubs, plus new brake discs 10 per cent larger than before. These have helped raise the maximum permissible gross vehicle weight to 14.5t. “We found that customers were using the previous version for a larger range of in-field applications than ever before and seeing fantastic tractive performance so it made sense to upgrade the drive gear and allow users to make more of its capability,”explained JCB senior Fastrac sales engineer James Coxon. “With the extra weight there is more grip, and we have also added new VF tyre options to optimise performance.”

The new Twin Steer steering mode was demonstrated. This uses the Fastrac’s four-wheel steering and two GPS guidance systems to create separate AB lines for the front and rear axles. When working on slopes, the front and rear steering operate independently to correct side slip and maintain the correct position.

For operating on slopes or level ground, Twin Steer can also be used in a crab steering mode to optimise weight distribution. Cultivating a grass ley provided a good demonstration. First an AB line was set for the front axle, then crab-steer mode was selected and a different AB line was set for the rear axle so that the wheels maintained different tracks. At each headland the tractor turned normally, then the autosteer was re-engaged and the previous wheel offset was achieved. The system compensates for left or right turns so that the offset is always to the correct side for accurate bout matching.

JCB developed Twin Steer with Trimble, but other GPS guidance systems are compatible, making it ideal for customers with mixed fleets.

“Most operators don’t realise how much tractors slip on side slopes until Twin Steer is activated, and then it feels strange maintaining a straight path,” added James. “It’s a useful feature and JCB is the only manufacturer which can offer it.”

8000-series

Updates to 8000-series Fastracs announced in 2019 included meeting Stage 5 emissions standards. Other improvements included revised engine and transmission management software. Previously drive take-up from stand-still could be aggressive, but updated models have smoother drive engagement which starts as soon as the accelerator pedal is pressed.

Previous 8000-series Fastracs had coil suspension at the front and hydraulic suspension at the rear, but latest models have active hydraulic suspension all round – similar to the proven arrangement on 4000-series machines. This maintains a constant ride height when front mounted implements or ballast are attached, and also improves weight transfer to maintain close to 50/50 weight distribution for maximum traction. Front end dipping during heavy braking is reduced. Maximum permissible gross vehicle weight has been increased to 18t, and rear deck load capacity is up to 5t, allowing larger tanks and hoppers to be mounted.

New VF tyre options allow extra load carrying at lower inflation pressures. Mitas VF 480/70R38 front, plus VF 480/80R46 rear tyres can be specified for row crop applications and there are also new 600-and 710mm options with VF technology.

 

Electric Loadall

JCB announced its 525-60E electric Loadall last November. Only one model is available currently, based on the diesel 525-60 with 2.5t lift capacity and 6m maximum lift height.

The electric version is designed to provide identical performance to the diesel model, and it has dual electric motors which separately power the wheels and hydraulics. An on-board 96V, 24kWh lithium-ion battery provides capacity for an average day’s work for 90 per cent of users, based on use analysis gathered through LiveLink telematics data from 525-60 diesel machines all over the world.

Externally the 525-60E looks  little different to the diesel machine, although JCB stresses that it is far from being an electrified diesel. The main battery is under what would otherwise be the engine hood and a separate 12V conventional battery provides power for the cab systems. An on-board 34kW charger allows the Loadall to be plugged in and charged from a single-phase supply in eight hours for a full charge, or five hours from 25 per cent which better reflects predicted typical use. An optional off-board rapid charger can fill the battery in only 1.5 hours from 25 per cent remaining capacity. Other charging options for less intensive use include using a 110V, 1.2kW supply or a standard 240V domestic mains supply to charge the battery in 21 hours. Whichever charger is used, a charge point safety flap prevents the machine from being driven away while connected to the supply.

Portable power

JCB has also added an electric ‘refuelling bowser’ to its product line-up. This provides additional charging options including the ability to charge the power pack at night or from a ‘green’ power source, then use it to charge the handler’s battery wherever it is working – including in locations without mains power. The mobile power supply can also power other electrical equipment making it extremely versatile.

The Loadall’s lithium-ion battery is maintenance-free with a predicted 5,000-cycle working life, after which the capacity drops below 80 per cent.

Efficient drive

Power to the hydraulics is from a 22kW motor driving an 80-litre/min hydraulic pump. The wheels are driven by a 17kW motor. The axle is the same as the diesel version, although a drop-box replaces the standard transmission between the motor and axle. Power is recovered during deceleration to extend battery life, and there is no conventional front brake.

The cab is also similar to the diesel machine, but the front, rear and right-hand windows are heated. The seat is also heated and there is a 2kW fan heater. Hydraulic functions are all through the main joystick and the operator can change direction using a shift lever by the steering wheel, or a joystick-mounted switch. The steering has three operating modes.

The controls and main display of the 525-60E.

Test drive

An opportunity to muck out a cattle shed and load the compacted manure into a high-sided trailer using a large muck grab provided an ideal test. After operating conventional diesel machines, it took a while to get used to the battery model. Switching on brought the main display to life, then operating the joystick started the quiet pump motor and the boom lifted. The pump motor always operates at full speed so progressive control is achieved by gentle use of the joystick – just as on conventional machines. Selecting forward or reverse and then pressing the accelerator pedal, the Loadall moves away smoothly.

Because it is so quiet, there is an expectation that it might lack the real-world performance of the diesel model – but during the test it proved equally fast and capable. Pushing hard into the compacted manure and angling the grab to pack in as much material as possible, the handler easily lifted and carried it to the trailer.

Extending the boom to reach over the side of the trailer, there was again an expectation that the quiet machine might not be up to the job but was just as well balanced as the diesel.

The overload protection system is the same as on other JCB handlers, with pillar-mounted indicator lights informing the operator as the limit is approached.

Although the 525-60E boasts the same performance figures as its diesel sibling, there are situations where it out-performs it. The diesel engine’s maximum power is shared between all the systems so in heavy working conditions as the revs reduce under load, the hydraulic performance becomes slower and there is less torque at the drive wheels. Even when the wheels of the battery machine require full power, the hydraulic performance is not affected.

 

Comfort

The cab is very quiet, and silent when it is stationary when a diesel engine would typically be idling. This makes it easier for others working in the same area to communicate with the driver, improving safety. The statutory reversing beeper seems louder than on a conventional machine as there is no engine noise to drown it, but with the electric model’s near-silent operation it is essential.

Verdict

The Loadall 525-60E surprised the Farmers Guide test operator with its impressive performance. It is excellent and with less maintenance needed than an equivalent diesel-engine machine, there is less downtime and service costs should be lower. JCB is confident that for most users it will work a full day between charges, and with zero emissions during use it is a clean and quiet option for working in packhouses, glasshouses and livestock buildings, and will help boost the ‘green’ credentials of suppliers. It is definitely worth considering when similar-size diesel models are due for updating, and it might just be the start of a new generation of farm machinery to come.

Other handlers

The latest mid-size Loadalls have all gained DieselMax 4.8-litre, 4-cyl engines meeting Stage 5 emissions requirements. Agri Super versions gain 5hp and have 130hp, and Agri Xtra models also gain 5hp and 7 per cent extra torque with 150hp and 600Nm. Base Agri versions retain their 109hp power units.

DualTech Variable Transmission has been added to the range options

for mid-spec Agri Super models, whereas previously it was only available on Agri Pro models. The new 532-60 Agri Super is an addition to the line-up, complementing the existing base spec 532-60 Agri. The new model is an ideal size for use in and around farm buildings, but with the premium transmission it offers extra performance and versatility.

It is powered by a DieselMax 130hp engine driving a 140 litres/min load-sensing hydraulic pump. The exclusive DualTech VT transmission provides hydrostatic drive for precise, low-speed operations, and powershift mechanical drive for high-speed transport efficiency up to the maximum 40kph.

Wheel loaders

A test-drive on the latest ultra-compact 403 Plus wheeled loader demonstrated its superb manoeuvrability.

With twice the power of the existing ultra-compact 25hp 403 Smart Power, the new 403 Plus has a Perkins 50hp engine paired with a 60-litres/ min hydraulic pump for demanding tasks and higher work rates. Standard 2.6m or high lift 2.8m versions are available, and it lifts up to 616kg. Twin hydraulic supplies to run attachments can be selected through an improved in-cab diverter valve, and a choice of headstocks are available. The standard cab is a canopy, although a fully glazed cab or a quick folding ROPs frame are also available. A trailer hitch is a new option.

JCB says the UK market for this size of handler is growing, although previously most demand has been for export to mainland Europe.

TM loaders

A test-drive of the new TM420S Agri articulated loader included manure handling in the yard and travel at high speeds along a hilly route through the JCB estate.

The new 420S flagship is the most powerful of four models in the TM320 Agri and TM420 Agri line-up, and is powered by a 173hp version of the DieselMax 4.8-litre engine. All four models share a new ‘intelligent’ eight- speed powershift transmission with manual or automatic operating modes. A higher specification version, standard on the TM420S and an option on the TM320S, allows 50kph maximum speed and features lock-up in all gears including reverse for maximum power and efficiency – making it ideal for demanding applications such as silage clamp construction. The ‘intelligent’ automatic shifting provides relaxed gear changes at low revs for maximum fuel economy, but under heavy loads gear changes are delayed and take place at higher revs for maximum performance. The TM420S, and TM320S with the 50kph transmission gain dual-circuit brakes and oil immersed discs in both axles.

The TM420S has a 160 litres/min, twin-displacement hydraulic pump for fast cycle times even at low revs.

Cab improvements include a one-piece windscreen offering an increase in forward visibility by 13 per cent, programmable work lights and a standard rear-view camera. Most switches have been relocated to the cab pillar under a rubber membrane. A programmable joystick button can be assigned for multiple functions and adds convenience. A new Pro Pack specification for the TM320S and

TM420S includes a half-leather heated seat, 360-degree lights and extra storage. Z-bar linkage is standard and the nose cone of TM420 models is cast for extra strength.

The steering angle is up to 40 degrees on TM420 models and 43 degrees on TM320 versions, and the pivot point oscillates up to +\- 10 degrees.

Pictured with the latest 4000-series Fastrac are product specialist Tom Mowforth (left) with James Coxon.

 

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Six models in the latest generation MF TH Series are designed to handle every job with ease. The line-up starts with the semi-compact MF TH 6030 and goes up to the latest MF TH.8043, which provides a maximum lift capacity of 4,300kg and height of 7.5m, and it can be equipped with a 3,500-litre capacity bucket.

Significant improvements to the hydrostatic transmission, which include a new operating mode, ensure the MF TH Series operate more smoothly to ease operation and increase productivity. Powerful and high flow hydraulics, equipped with proportional control, deliver optimum materials handling accuracy and productivity.

“Massey Ferguson TH Telehandlers already have a strong reputation for excellent performance, productivity, visibility and manoeuvrability. These new models now introduce the most exciting developments in 10 years’ of MF TH production. This is not just an upgrade – it is a breakthrough,” says vice president and managing director Massey Ferguson, Europe & Middle East, Thierry Lhotte.

“The MF TH Series is completely transformed. Now equipped with a high comfort cab, this new generation delivers outstanding comfort and control, combined with smoother operation and additional automation,” explains Mr Lhotte.

As well as a new seat, there’s also a new joystick that offers the effortless operation of the hydraulics and transmission, while a new colour display provides a range of operating information.

Additional automation for the boom suspension, parking brake, boom height setting and third hydraulic function controls further ease operation.

All models are powered by advanced four-cylinder, Stage V engines, with power increasing to 135hp on the MF TH 6534, MF TH 7038 and MF TH 8043, while remaining at 100hp for the other models. Lift capacity and height specifications remain unchanged.

Features include:

• Wide choice of models to suit all handling requirements and investment levels
• Quiet and comfortable cab design offers outstanding visibility and control. New, lower profile engine bonnet shape maintains a completely unobstructed view to the rear three-quarter right-hand side
• New Massey Ferguson family neo-retro design first introduced on the MF 8S tractors
• Significantly enhanced operation with high specification seat, new MF Power Control lever, hand throttle, optional 7” colour touch-screen display and a rear-view camera
• New joystick designed exclusively and specifically for MF TH telehandlers, with new armrest-mounted joystick option
• New optional bucket shake function
• Excellent control from the smooth and responsive hydrostatic transmission
• New transmission mode to vary the travel speed of the telehandler – perfect for work requiring steady and changing forward speeds
• Load-sensing, high flow hydraulics delivering up to 190 litre/min
• Latest design Stage V compliant four-cylinder engines generate power with economy
• Economical engine setting provides more torque at low rpm for lower fuel consumption

“The new MF TH range not only reflects the new Massey Ferguson design initiated on the MF 8S, but substantial changes to the cab enable operators to benefit from modern, advanced controls in a quiet, comfortable workplace. Our renowned MF Power Control lever, as used on all Massey Ferguson tractors, is now standard, providing excellent operation with the left hand,” adds director of marketing Massey Ferguson EME, Francesco Murro.

“High performance, combined with great comfort, make the MF TH Series a real operator’s machine,” concluded Mr Murro.

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A two-week-long test of one of Manitou’s latest skid-steer loaders on a large mixed farm was intended to find out whether these highly manoeuvrable machines have agricultural applications beyond poultry and pig buildings. David Williams reports.

Manitou launched its compact loader range, which included a large selection of skid-steer models, at Lamma last year. The company has owned American manufacturers Gehl and Mustang since 2008, but offered both in their traditional colours and with existing brand names until late 2018, when the two ranges became part of the Manitou line-up with full Manitou branding.

Simple and practical

Skid-steer loaders boast a simple design, compact size and unbeatable manoeuvrability. Manitou’s line-up includes models with traditional radial lift and vertical lift, and with tyres or tracks. Radial lift is simpler and suitable for most applications, whereas vertical lift uses a variable geometry linkage which causes the load carriage to move through a constant vertical plane. This makes it better suited for tasks such as pallet stacking, and it also keeps the load closer in to the machine for increased load capacity.

Load capacities are quoted by Manitou as 50 per cent of the machine’s static tipping load with a standard bucket. Cabs across the range meet Level 2 ROPs and FOPs standards, and before any of the machines can be used the operator has to lower a safety restraint bar to activate the hydraulics.

Options include a front door, heater, air conditioning, an air suspension seat and a radio.

The model supplied for the Farmers Guide test was the 1650R. The Manitou line-up includes wheeled models with 386–1,905kg lift capacity, and the 1650R sits just under halfway up the range with 748kg lift capacity. The version we tested was on wheels, but it is also available as a 1650RT with tracks.

Suitable test-farm

The farm selected for the skid-steer loader test was Euston Farms – part of Euston Estate, which is close to the Suffolk/Norfolk border. The farm is mainly arable, with more than 2,500ha of in-hand crops including cereals, maize and sugar beet, and it also produces vegetables grown in partnership with RG Abrey Farms.

Livestock include Red Poll beef cattle, Suffolk sheep, outdoor pigs, poultry and Suffolk Punch horses.

Euston relies on two conventional telehandlers for loading and materials handling, and the range of enterprises means there is always plenty of work for both machines. Some of the livestock buildings have low roofs, which restrict use of the large telehandlers, so it had been hoped that the skid-steer would be on the farm in time for mucking out after the beef cattle were moved outside in the spring. However, Covid-19 restrictions delayed the machine’s arrival until early autumn.

Experienced handler user

The skid-steer’s main user was the farm’s workshop engineer, Jon Bedford.

“Although I have operated most other types of loader quite extensively, the test machine was the first skid-steer I had used. Ahead of the test, I expected advantages to include superb manoeuvrability, but I also anticipated that it would be uncomfortable and noisy,” he explained.

Manitou offers a choice of control systems, including hand-only, hand and foot and joystick, and the demonstration machine came with foot-operated hydraulic controls, and movement and steering controlled by twin hand levers.

CONTINUE READING IN OUR ONLINE ISSUE

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Matt Shaw and Derek Scott Directors of Scott Precision Manufacturing with an Evolution

A UK manufacturer of vegetable harvesting and handling machinery has this month exported its largest-ever order.

Scotts Precision Manufacturing sent 14 Evolution Separators to Allan Potato Equipment Manufacturing Ltd., Canada’s largest designer and manufacturer of potato harvesting equipment.

Before this shipment, the most Evolutions Scotts had supplied in one order was seven. Coincidentally, that order was also placed by Allan.

The Evolutions will be incorporated into Allan’s three and four-row electrically-driven harvesters.

The Allan Four Row electric drive, and the company’s two row drive, were the first of their kind on the market. Allan chose electric drive as it is incredibly efficient, using a lot less power than traditional harvesters. Transmission components have been reduced by almost 80% resulting in a very easy to maintain harvester.

By featuring the Evolution within it, the Allan Harvester sends very little dirt to the warehouse and can load a truck within four minutes, whereas other machines can take up to 12 minutes to perform the same task. The harvesters are also available with a 6000lbs holding hopper and full width separator at the rear.

Scotts manufactured its first Evolution at its factory in Boston, Lincolnshire, in 2005. Since then, more than 700 separators have been sold to farmers and food processors across the UK and around the world.

The Evolutions heading to Allans will be used on potato crops, but the Evolution is capable of gently separating clod, stones, haulm and loose soil from a wide range of vegetables, fruit and alliums, including gourmet potatoes, sweet potatoes, carrots, onions and bell peppers amongst others.

At the heart of the Evolution is the patented roller design. The two contract rotating rollers work together to gently move the crop across the separator. The movement of the rollers loosens the dirt, which is worked into a valley, where, if soft enough, the debris is crushed and ejected down below the separator.

The latest version of the Evolution features maintenance-free direct-drive motor and gearbox units on each extracting shaft.

A new generation of Polyurethane spiral roller has been developed and integrated into the system. This latest design features large air chambers and a “foam pocket” section that improves the grip on root clusters to reduce blockages.

Protection to the lips from potential stone damage is maintained with the benefit of improved self-cleaning. Instead of the standard main crop spiral rollers with a 10mm tread pattern, less aggressive spiral rollers with a 6mm tread pattern are now an option. The 6mm tread is designed for customers looking to clean small potatoes or where high volumes of haulm and/or leafy material is an issue. The 10mm option continues to be the best option for farmers faced with significant clod problems.

Allan Machinery, which is based in Prince Edward Island, has been working with Scotts for six years, in which time it has purchased 38 Evolutions.

“There are several reasons why we choose to work with Scotts and incorporate the Evolution into our machines,” says Trent Cousins, Partner, Allan Potato Equipment Manufacturing Ltd. “The Evolution has a simple design and is easy to maintain. It also offers gentle crop handling, high capacity and reliability. We also receive excellent service from Derek and his team, which makes a big difference to us and our customers.”

Derek Scott, managing director of Scotts Precision Manufacturing adds: “2020 is looking like it is going to be one of best ever years, if not our best year! We have seen interest in the Evolution go through the roof in recent months, and we were delighted to receive an order for 14 separators from Trent. It is very much appreciated, and we hope that the Evolutions will help his customers operate more efficiently.”

Established in 1994, Scotts Precision Manufacturing specialises in the design and manufacturing of highly efficient vegetable handling equipment. Its products, such as the Evolution separator, often feature in full handling line solutions supplied by leading manufacturers but can also be retrofitted by farmers looking to upgrade.

For more information about Scotts Precision Manufacturing and the Evolution, please visit http://www.scottsuk.com/ or https://www.allanequipment.com/

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