Caterpillar Inc. has announced the release of its next-generation Cat Telehandlers, designed to replace the previous TL series models. These new Cat telehandler models – the TH0642, TH0842, TH1055, and TH1255 – are built for retail and rental markets, promising enhanced safety, reliability, and ease of use.
Cat TH0642 Telehandler: A next-generation model from Caterpillar, designed for improved performance and operator comfort.
Photo courtesy of Caterpillar
According to Kevin Coleman, senior product consultant for Cat telehandlers, the development of this new generation started from the ground up with the aim of creating a range of machines that are safe, dependable, smooth, and comfortable, while also being user-friendly and easy to maintain. Early operator feedback has been notably positive, highlighting the stability and control when handling heavy loads at height, as well as the smooth ride across uneven surfaces.
Enhanced Performance and Engine Technology
The new Cat telehandlers are powered by the Cat C3.6TA engine, a turbocharged and aftercooled engine compliant with stringent U.S. EPA Tier IV Final/EU Stage V emissions standards. This 74 hp (55 kW) engine features a zero-service diesel particulate filter (DPF) and crucially, does not require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), simplifying operation and reducing maintenance. For the TH0842, TH1055, and TH1255 models, a more powerful 115 hp (86 kW) engine option is available, utilizing selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to meet emissions regulations while delivering increased performance.
Operator-Centric Design: Comfort and Safety Features
Caterpillar has prioritized operator comfort and safety in the design of these new telehandlers. Operators can choose from three station options: an open canopy, an enclosed cab with heating, and a premium enclosed cab with both heating and air conditioning. The interior has been completely redesigned with an emphasis on ergonomics, featuring an intuitive control layout, a standard tilt steering column, and a new full-color LCD monitor. This monitor displays essential machine information and supports four languages – English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Importantly, the monitor integrates the standard rearview camera feed, activated in reverse, and can provide a continuous rear view at the touch of a button.
Standard safety equipment includes an operator presence seat switch, preventing operation if the seat is unoccupied. An optional Load Stability Indication (LSI) system enhances safety further by providing visual and audible alerts to the operator, warning of potential forward instability when handling loads.
Performance and Operational Enhancements
The pilot-controlled joystick in these Cat telehandlers ensures smooth and predictable multi-function operation. This provides operators with precise control over boom extension/retraction and lift/lower functions. Caterpillar is now offering a choice of coupler interfaces: the IT (Integrated Toolcarrier) or the new Standard TH. The Standard TH quick coupler is designed to be smaller and lighter than the IT style, improving fork visibility and increasing load capacity, particularly when the boom is extended.
To maximize versatility, the new generation Cat Telehandlers are equipped with standard auxiliary hydraulics, enabling the use of a wide range of hydraulically powered Cat attachments. Fuel efficiency and reduced idle time are addressed with a configurable engine idle shutdown feature, contributing to lower operating costs and environmental impact. For enhanced security on job sites, the integrated monitor includes a multi-operator code security system, supporting up to 50 unique operator codes to prevent theft and unauthorized use.
Simplified Maintenance and Robust Design
Maintenance has been simplified in the new TH series Cat telehandlers with extended service intervals and a patent-pending service tool designed for quick inspection of chains and boom wear pads. Demonstrating Caterpillar’s confidence in the durability of these machines, the boom sections, mainframe, stabilizer frame, and stabilizer legs are all backed by a comprehensive 5-year, 5,000-hour warranty.
Advanced Telematics for Fleet Management
The inclusion of Product Link Elite telematics as standard equipment provides fleet managers with critical machine operating data. This system facilitates remote software updates, eliminating the need for service trips for routine updates. Remote troubleshooting capabilities also offer real-time diagnostics, along with the ability to remotely adjust machine parameters and settings, maximizing uptime and efficiency.
Caterpillar is set to showcase the next generation Cat Telehandlers at World of Concrete 2025 in booth C6061. For more in-depth information, please visit www.cat.com.
(Specs Tables from original article would be placed here if included in rewritten article)
