POWER FARMING’S HANDLER OF THE YEAR 2023

As one of the most popular models in Merlo’s extensive Turbofarmer range, the TF42.7 has been named Handler of the Year 2023 by Power Farming, a leading agri-tech magazine.

Merlo has been pioneering the combination of a side-mounted engine and hydrostatic transmission since the 1980s, with their farm handler, the Turbofarmer, being introduced in 1996. The Turbofarmer remains at the core of Merlo’s agricultural telehandler product range.

The Turbofarmer’s low profile, distinctive ‘ring of steel’ reinforcing and 74 AusBiz.

hydrostatic drive have helped make Merlo leaders in performance, precision, safety, comfort and efficiency.

Merlo has an extensive agricultural dealer network across Europe and the world. Like all Merlo telescopic handlers, the Turbofarmer 42.7 is built in the company’s Defendente di Cervasca factory near Cuneo in the south-west corner of northern Italy.

TURBOFARMER 42.7

One of the key models in the Merlo agricultural telescopic handler range, the Turbofarmer 42.7 meets growing demand for more productive mid-range models with greater lift capacity of 4.2 tonnes, combined with a 7-metre lift height. These handlers suit large livestock enterprises – both beef and dairy – as well as cropping properties.

With a width over the standard tyres of 2,310mm and a height to the cab roof of 2,530mm, the machine has a strong presence without being overly bulky. It is available in base form or with a handful of specialist optional equipment which can be tailor-made to suit each customer.

These ‘value-added’ versions include a suspension mounted cab for added comfort over long working hours; chassis levelling for working at height on an uneven or sloping surface; boom side-shift for precision placement of loads; and a CVT ground drive system without intermediate gears.

For more, visit merlo.com/AUS/eng

Engine Specs

Merlo has opted to fit the TF42.7 with a 3.6-litre, four-cylinder Deutz engine, which develops 100kW (136hp) and puts it near the top of the table in terms of power output.

The Turbofarmer engine has easy access to service points and other components for routine servicing and for access in-paddock, if needed. The engine bay is a busy place, however, accommodating a large cooling pack for engine, transmission and hydraulic oil temperature control, and exhaust emissions after-treatment hardware.

Since the cooling fan is driven by a hydraulic motor, its speed is moderated according to the degree of cooling needed at any time, and can be reversed to clear dust and debris from the radiator and coolers.

Cab Features

The suspended cab is the jewel in Merlo’s crown, delivering a plush and enviably smooth ride across even the roughest paddocks, greatly adding to operator comfort levels and extending work periods.

The operator position places everything within easy reach and sight, including the colour display monitor for the ASCS safe working system and reversing camera feed.

In the cab, the stability display changes in real time to help the operator keep the boom within a safe operating envelope for the load carried. Safe movements when limits have been reached are highlighted and there is also an inclinometer. A supportive joystick goes ‘live’ when it detects the presence of the operator’s hand.