Case launches Euro handlers in N America

Case has launched three of its Italian-made telehandlers in North America. The three are 7000 lb (3,2 t), 8000 lb (3,6 t) and 9000 lb (4,0 t) models (TX742, TX842 and TX945) with 42 ft (12,8 m) and 45 ft (13,7 m) reaches.

The machines – officially launched in mid-October at the ICUEE utility equipment show in Louisville, US – will be available from the first quarter of 2008, with two further European handlers – a 6000 lb/35 ft (2,7 t/10,7 m) unit and a 10000 lb/55 ft (4,5 t/25 m) model – available in the second quarter.

Mike Kaufmann, Case product specialist, told IRN that the “feedback [from Case distributors] has been overwhelmingly positive. The three biggest things are, first, the all round visibility from the cab, second is that they carry the ‘Case DNA' for ease of maintenance, and the third is operator comfort.”

A canopy cab will be standard on all models, although an enclosed cab will be an option. All three handlers use the same Case 4,5 l engine that powers the larger Case skid steers and five of its backhoe loaders. “There is a lot of commonality”, said Mr Kaufmann, who said the 8000 lb model would be the most popular size in North America.

Case said there were no plans to start manufacturing the handlers in North America.