MHW Magazine News and stories from the Materials Handling Industry
At SIMA 2015, the Bobcat stand provided the launch platform for a very innovative telescopic loader specially designed for agricultural applications and heavy duty farm jobs. The main attribute of the new TL358+ AGRI model is its versatility, with three different machine dimensions offering compactness where it is required and top performance at all times.
The TL358+ is powered by a 100 HP Deutz engine (a Perkins engine is used for less regulated countries). The machine is able to handle a 3 tonne load up to 5.8 m in a very confined space and at great speed. The hydraulic system is controlled by a single Bobcat joystick in the cab linked to a Load Sensing Valve block to allow flow sharing depending on the operator choice and the application need.
The TL358+ is equipped with a fully automatic hydrostatic transmission allowing it to reach a top speed of 40 km/h.
The machine is available as standard with 20 inch tyres, but can also be equipped with 24 inch tyres for better ground clearance and traction. The cab can be mounted in two ways – in a low position that results in the very low 2.1 m height or a higher position to optimise the visibility for the operator in the cab.
The TL358+ is a very compact machine, only 2.1 m in height and 2.1 m wide, providing exceptional performance, comfort and visibility for a machine of this size.
Several unique features are available on the TL358+. The first is the dual FNR option, which allows the operator to choose between the joystick or a lever on the steering wheel for forward/reverse control. The SHS (Smart Handling System) allows the operator to easily adjust the speed of the boom movement depending on the type of work being carried out. The fast setting can be used for loading or clearing manure and similar materials, whilst a second setting is ideal for placing bales or other more precision work on the farm. Last but not least is the ECO mode which utilises the economical drive system to adjust main machine features to provide a balance between top performance and providing the best performance/fuel consumption ratio.
