Bobcat TL38.70HF telescopic handler: Machine spotlight

In the thick of hay season, speed and efficiency is paramount, and the Bobcat TL38.70HF telehandler certainly fit the bill.

The TL38.70HF claims to be best in class when it comes to boom cycle times, clocking around one second faster than other comparative models.

Launched on to the market last year, the TL38.70HF has been specced up with no skimping on the creature comforts. The versatile unit can be used in a wide range of applications across different industries, including farming, construction and materials handling.

The seven-tonne telehandler was recently put through its paces by Upper Murray beef producers at a demo day hosted by Damm’s Auto and Diesel Repairs at Corryong, Victoria.

Clark Equipment telescopic handlers national product specialist, David Warrack, said the TL38.70HF is great for producers wanting a fast, compact unit.

“This machine is ideal for hay, grain and digging in situations where tractors struggle,” Warrack said.

“It is faster than a tractor and front end loader, and with more manoeuvrability.

“Bobcat is known for the skid steers and mini track loaders and now a telehandler has joined the family.

“We are here in the Upper Murray to create awareness – Bobcat is an iconic name and there are no corners cut on this machine.”

Warrack said reliability, durability, manoeuvrability and simplicity are at the forefront of customers’ minds, and the TL38.70HF ticks all boxes.

“This machine is easy to use, smooth to operate and functional,” he said.

The asymmetric cab has a pillar less rear window and fully adjustable air-suspension seat.

The easy-to-read dashboard displays engine or job hours, vehicle or engine speed, boom angle, speed management, auxiliary hydraulic flow setting and permanent flow.

The three steering modes comprise two-wheel, four-wheel and crab.

An inching function allows for smooth speed reduction at full engine rpm while the auto-shift speed functionality accommodates heavy load conditions.

The semi-automatic wheel realignment provides automated assistance to the operator ensuring the wheels are always aligned when changing between the three steering modes.

A multi-functional joystick controls the boom suspension, boom in/out, settings and auxiliary hydraulic line.

A two-speed gearbox provides zero to 40 km/h step less driving.

Warrack said an automatic parking brake activates as a safety mechanism when the engine is off or at low idle with speed unengaged.

“We predominantly drive this machine off the joystick with forward, and reverse, auxiliaries for front and back implements,” he said.

“We also have a Smart Handling System (SHS) which has a unique feature.

“The Speed Management System enables travel and engine speed to be adjusted independently of each other.

“For example, when operating in a confined shed, the machine can be slowed on the joystick function, such as 50 per cent power.

“But, when back out in the paddock the speed can be increased to 100 per cent.

“In turn, you can change the boom speeds up or down as conditions change like using the soft grabs – it’s a machine for all applications.”

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The High Flow technology allows the operator to raise productivity even with low engine rpm.

When all hydraulic functions are used simultaneously, the Quick-start and flow-sharing systems supply the full oil output immediately for optimum productivity.

Warrack said the Boom Suspension System gives added stability and increased load retention when driving fast or on uneven ground.

“It is an independent boom suspension to keep the load stable when the boom is close to minimum and maximum angles, or close to full retraction,” he said.

“Boom cycle times are at least a second faster than competitors.

“It’s all about getting the job done as quickly as possible and having everything at the fingertips on the joy stick.”

The boom cycle times are 4.9 seconds for raising, 4.3 seconds to lower, 4.7 seconds for boom extension, 4.8 for retraction, 2.3 for crowding and 2.5 seconds for dumping.

Power Lift creates the optimal use of hydraulic flows between telescopic boom cylinders. It combines increased lifting capacity with reduced power consumption.

The over-large boom head withstands heavy loading jobs.

The demo machine was shod with standard Michelin 24-inch tyres, however there are 20-inch options available to lower the cab.

The box-welded frame meets heavy load cycles and features a bottom plate along the entire length as added protection.

“The undercarriage is sealed so debris cannot get stuck underneath and the engine area does bolt-off for easy access to the motor,” Warrack said.

“The frame is slightly shorter with more counterweight on the rear for an increased turning circle.”

The high tensile steel 7m boom has a lift capacity of 3.8 tonnes and submerged-arc welding for optimal resistance.

The Bobcat TL38.70HF is powered by a 130hp Perkins engine.

The heavy-duty hydrostatic transmission delivers high wheel torque for digging and pushing.

“The fully automatic hydrostatic transmission is effective in lifting, performance and power,” Warrack said.

“There is no lag with all power smoothly transferred through the transmission to the wheels and boom.

“This machine has an auto fan inverter which is necessary when working with grain and hay.

“A timer can be set for up to 30 minute intervals, or simply tap the button as you pull into the stack and the fan will automatically come on as you pull out of the stack, clearing the bonnet vent of hay or dust.

Towing options include a fixed or rotating tow hitch, hydraulic pick-up tow hitch or rotating hitch with height adjustment.

“An operator can tow up to 3.5 tonnes off the standard tow hitch at the rear without trailer brakes,” Warrack said.

“Hydraulics at the rear allow implements such as feed carts to be towed.

“With trailer brakes, the machine can tow up to 19 tonnes.”

The Quick-Tach mounting system allows attachments to be mounted and dismounted quickly by the operator at the touch of a button.

“The machine comes standard with pallet forks and, at the moment, we are giving purchasers a 780-litre bucket.

“Buckets can go up to two cubic metres on this model for digging and pushing soil, gravel or grain.

“Basically this telehandler has everything every farmer would need – we listen to our customers for feedback and provide what they want.

“They told us they want good working lights for better vision during night work so there are lights on the boom and cabin, plus driving lights.”

The Bobcat TL38.70HF is priced from $126,500+GST.

Maximum lift capacity: 3800kg

Maximum lift height ( with 24-inch tyres): 6975mm

Maximum forward reach (with 24-inch tyres): 3915mm

Crowding force: 6200daN

Weight (unladen):  7245kg

Engine: Perkins 1104D-E44TA 130HP

Overall width: 2300mm

Overall length to forks face: 4869mm

Ground clearance: 430mm

Wheelbase: 2870mm

External turning radius (at tyres): 3714mm

Hydraulic pump capacity: 190 litres/min

Tyres: 400/70 R20 XMCL