With the variety of jobs landscapers are called upon to do, the most versatile machines are those that are useful on a wide range of projects. With adaptability in mind, JLG has introduced the G5-18A compact telehandler – a machine that handles an array of tasks from transporting pallets of sod to snow removal. The G5-18A has a 5,500-pound lifting capacity, 18 feet of maximum lift height and an 1,850-pound capacity at a 10-foot, 10-inch extended reach that enables the operator to reach over retaining walls and into enclosed trucks and flatbeds. The machine’s 126-inch turning radius enables the telehandler to work in places difficult for larger model skid steers to access.
Brian Boeckman, product parent, JLG, says the G5-18A begins to approach the price point of the largest skid steers, making the compact telehandler, at 144.2 inches long by 71.5 inches wide by 75.6 inches high, an attractive alternative for individuals seeking greater reach capability. The telehandler’s ability to perform ground engaging work also increases the machine’s usefulness.
The telehandler has a two-piece boom with reinforcement that transfers force back to the boom. For non-ground engaging work, Boeckman says a universal coupler performs well. “The universal coupler found on skid steers was not designed to handle the forces imposed on it by telehandler bucket work,” he says. “Therefore JLG recommends the universal coupler option only in applications that do not include a great deal of bucket work.” Available attachments for the G5-18A include a general purpose bucket, grapple bucket, light material bucket, lifting hook and forks.
Boeckman says the super compact telehandler has features addressing both comfort and performance. “We wanted to give the operator a little more than he’s expecting,” he says. Those features include an ergonomic cab, easy accessibility to fluids and electrical systems and simple controls designed for veteran and novice operators alike. The G5-18A also has a Tier 3, 84-horsepower Perkins engine, a Rexroth hydrostatic transmission and operator-selectable four-wheel circle, four-wheel crab and two-wheel front steering.
QUICK LOOK
Rated capacity-5,500 lbs. at 24-in. load center
Max lift height-18 ft.
Max forward reach-10 ft. 10 in.
Capacity at maximum lift height-4,400 lbs.
Capacity at maximum forward reach-1,850 lbs.
Lift speed (boom retracted)-Up: 6.2 sec.; Down: 4.3 sec.
Travel speed-17 mph
Drawbar pull-8,700 lbs.
Breakout force-7,650 lbs.
Operating weight (with 48-inch carriage and forks)-10,800 lbs.
