JCB lineup extended

Despite the economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, JCB Corporation keeps on meeting the needs of agricultural producers offering advanced solutions. This year, the company has extended its range of telescopic wheel loaders with the all-new JCB TM320.

JCB engineers have maximised the performance of the telescopic handler by means of load-sensing hydraulics and class-leading engine power and torque. The JCB TM320 delivers up to 12% fuel economy, a lifting capacity increased to 3,200 kg and maximum hydraulic flow of up to 160 l/min (the TM 320S model). This series has an excellent combination of 5.2 m lift height and 2.9 m forward reach allowing the operator to tackle any task.

‘The engine is the heart of any machine’, says Vladimir Manukovskiy, JCB Product Manager of AgroCentreLiski. ‘The JCB TM320 features the JCB EcoMAX T4i turbocharged engine, which ensures improved performance at low rpms and guarantees high fuel efficiency. The JCB EcoMAX T4i can be adapted to run on lower-grade fuels. Moreover, it does not require costly heat-resistant lube oils and additional cleaning agents for exhaust gases.’

The JCB TM320 combines the articulated frame of wheel loaders and the telescopic boom of telehandlers. So, it is a hybrid of the two machines. The TM320’s tough, inverted U-shaped boom pressing features fully welded closing plates for ultimate strength and is mounted into a heavy-duty loader tower. A heavy-duty centre joint takes both vertical and horizontal loadings for maximum durability and rigidity.

‘The JCB TM320 is extremely robust and reliable’, says Vladimir Manukovskiy. ‘All key elements and mechanisms are safe and secure – the under-machine protection plates shield the engine and driveline from impact damage. The fold-up rear hitch design prevents grounding when working on gradients or uneven surfaces. The loader’s cast rear counterweight helps avert impact damage as well.’

Additional benefits of the JCB TM320 are low maintenance and extended service intervals. The design does not feature a diesel particulate filter, which cuts running costs. The wide-core single-faced cooling pack lets small materials pass through for less cleaning. A cyclonic air cleaner reduces debris build-up in the air filter. Moreover, the TM320’s wide-opening rear bonnet gives clear access to service points, no tools are required to get to the battery. The self-lubricating boom wear pads provide virtually maintenance-free operation.

‘JCB LiveLink ensures maintenance is kept up to date’, continues Vladimir Manukovskiy. ‘Accurate hours monitoring and service alerts improve maintenance planning, and real-time vehicle location data makes it easy to manage the fleet efficiently. Thanks to electronic (fuel) injection, this system allows for tracking fuel consumption per hour, which is not provided by machines with mechanical injection.’

Operators enjoy driving the new machine. The cab is large and roomy with plenty of storage for home comforts and work essentials. Besides, the armrest console folds back so the right-hand door of the loader can be easily used. Boom end damping on lift and retract reduces shock to the cab. The operator presence switch disables drive on leaving the seat preventing accidental operation. In addition to this, the TM320 ensures complete control with a high, centrally mounted driving position, a low boom pivot and large glass areas giving an unhampered 360° view.

‘It is easy to promote the new model’, comments Vladimir Manukovskiy. ‘The demo shows produce great impression. After seeing with their own eyes what tasks the JCB TM320 can handle, farmers have all the answers and want to see the novelty on their own farms.’