The JCB compact tracked teleskid is available for European markets

By MEq January 3, 2019 17:38

In March 2018, JCB introduced a tracked version of its innovative Teleskid compact telescopic boom machine to the European market. The 3TS-8T joined the popular 3TS-8W, offering a maximum load height of 4.1m and a forward reach of 2.25m.

JCB is building on the success of the wheeled 3TS-8W Teleskid model, with the introduction of a tracked machine – the 3TS-8T. Based on the large platform compact tracked loader chassis, the Teleskid delivers all the benefits of this highly manoeuvrable machine, with the added advantage of a long-reach telescopic boom.

The extending boom raises maximum loadover height to 3.8 meters with the boom extended, almost one metre more than the standard retracted boom. In addition, the JCB Teleskid delivers a forward reach at ground level of 2.25m and a maximum reach at full height of 1.7m, allowing the operator to load or unload a truck from one side. The loader has a rated capacity (35%) of 732kg with the boom extended, rising to 1,676kg retracted, offering a significant boost over the wheeled model.

Tipping the scales at 5,722kg with a full operator’s cab, or 5,662kg with a canopy, the tracked Teleskid boasts a retracted tipping load of 4,789kg, retaining a substantial 2,092kg maximum load with the boom extended. As well as the additional loading height and forward reach, the Teleskid’s telescopic boom provides the operator with the option of digging, or powering attachments, at depths of up to one metre below ground level, to remove tree roots, clear ditches or to work below grade.

The Teleskid’s single arm geometry allows the machine to deliver true bi-directional parallel lift, with bucket self-levelling on raise and lower. Standard auxiliary hydraulics provide 90 liters/min of flow to power attachments with the arm extended, or a high-flow 125 liters/min with the boom retracted. Leak-free connectors on the boom head have a pull clip to release hydraulic pressure, for easy changeover of attachments.

The Teleskid is powered by JCB’s proven 4.4-litre EcoMAX diesel engine, delivering 55kW (74hp) and 400Nm of torque. The engine meets US Tier 4 Final/EU Stage IIIB emissions standards. The machine sits atop a solid undercarriage with twin-speed track motors, offering a maximum travel speed of up to 7.8mph. The wide, traction lug rubber tracks provide maximum grip in difficult ground conditions, while delivering reduced ground pressure, when compared to a wheeled machine such as a small telehandler or a forklift.

As with all of JCB’s skid steer loaders and compact tracked machines, the Teleskid benefits from a single-arm boom, providing safe, easy access to the cab with no need to climb over dangerous attachments. The cab is 33% larger than the class average, with all of the major information provided in a dash console above the front windscreen. The single lift arm provides 270° visibility around the machine, which is far superior to any twin arm design.

The Teleskid has a comfortable air suspension seat as standard with seven-way joystick controls and proportional auxiliary control switches in the lever heads. The joysticks can be switched between ISO and H-pattern controls, to suit the individual operator. JCB’s MyChoice control also allows the operator to set three levels of transmission and loader lever response, to tailor the machine to operating conditions and operator preference. A large rear door provides excellent service access to the engine bay for daily checks and regular maintenance. For more serious work, the cab can be released at the rear of the machine and tilted forwards to provide unparalleled access to the transmission and hydraulics.