The Northern Ireland based machinery manufacturer, Redrock Engineering Ltd, has introduced a new 3 tonne lift capacity pivot steer telehandler. The new TH320 will replace the existing Redrock TH280S model originally launched in 2004.

The design features and specification for the TH320 were established following extensive market research. The TH320 is not merely a TH280S with a cosmetic facelift, but is a completely new machine designed from the ground up with many market-leading features. The result is a telehandler that provides improved performance, operator comfort and serviceability.

The TH320 has been designed and built to operate in the most demanding of agricultural environments. With the strongest chassis design in its class, a 126hp Iveco engine and its new-patented drive train layout, the TH320 has the strength, power and rugged ability needed by farmers and contractors to carry out a wide range of tasks.

The completely new tilting cab (fully ROPS and FOPS tested) features increased operator headroom while keeping the overall height of the machine to a minimum, an improved air conditioning system, a quieter operator environment, an improved control layout and better visibility than comparative machines.

A major safety feature is the class-leading rear visibility that has been achieved by the clever engine layout, allowing the bonnet to be sharply raked to maximise the operator’s rear vision. The result is an environment that will reduce operator fatigue for maximum productivity and safety over a long working day.

For routine maintenance and ease of service, unrestricted easy access to all the main components was a prime consideration in the design process. The TH320 bonnet lifts clear to reveal all the main engine components within easy reach thanks to the positioning of the radiator behind the engine. All fuses and primary electrical connections are housed in one easily accessible location. Access to the hydraulic pumps and transmission is achieved by tilting the uniquely designed cab to one side, enabling unrivalled access to these components.

The TH320 has a maximum lift height of 5.2m, a forward reach of 1.6m at maximum lift height, and a horizontal maximum forward reach of 3.2m. Tractive power is provided by the dependable and proven Iveco 93kw/126hp engine, driving through an uprated torque converter. The patented drive train layout incorporates a new smoother shifting 6-speed power shift transmission, upgraded axles with inboard brakes and a limited slip differential on 10 stud hubs. Top speed is an impressive 40km/h.

The hydraulics feature individual gear pumps for both the main hydraulic system and the hydraulic driven fan, with increased hydraulic capacity to 120 l/min on the main services. Increased pipe sizes enhance performance whilst at the same time reducing power consumption. A hydraulic cooler have been incorporated as standard and a reversible fan can be specified as an option to help keep the cooler clear when working in dusty conditions. A larger fuel tank now enables a longer working day between refuelling.

Designed to carry out an extensive range of tasks around the farm, the articulated TH320 provides excellent manoeuvrability. A comprehensive range of Redrock attachments further extend the machine's versatility. These include pallet forks, sweepers/collectors, buckets, shear grabs, shear buckets, buckets, silage rakes, push-off buck rakes and silo grips.

Redrock Engineering General Manager, Seamus Murchan, said: "We have extensive experience of designing and manufacturing rugged high quality telehandlers for the agricultural industry. The TH320 has many significant improvements in reliability, performance and operator comfort, with excellent all-round visibility, and is smooth, economic and efficient in operation."

Design Engineer, James Fegan said, "The TH320 has been designed following an extensive research and development programme and is part of our ongoing new model development initiative. Modern technology, end user requests and our own experience gained in the articulated telehandler market have been brought together to create a class leading machine."