The compact TL358 and TL358+ telescopic handlers have been made with the construction and rental market in mind. They provide exceptional performance, comfort and visibility for machines of their size.

Bobcat has launched its new TL358 and TL358+ telescopic handlers, which are compact 6-m models suitable for the construction and rental markets and complementing the existing TL360 and TL470 telehandlers.

The new telehandlers are both powered by the Deutz TCD 3.6 L4 Stage IIIB diesel engine providing 74.4 kW (100 hp) of power at 2,300 rpm. The Perkins 1104D-44TA Stage IIIA engine providing 74.5 kW (100 hp) of power at 2,200 rpm is also available for lesser regulated countries.

“The TL358 and TL358+ are very compact machines, thanks to the narrow frame design with a width of only 2.1 m compared to 2.3 m in the TL360/TL470 models,” says a spokesman for Doosan Infracore, which owns the Bobcat brand. “Combined with a height of just 2.1 m, they provide exceptional performance, comfort and visibility for machines of their size. They are also short machines – only 4.5 m long with an optimised 2.8-m wheel base for enhanced stability and a short turning radius of just 3.77 m.”

Capable of operating in very confined spaces and at great speed, the maximum lift capacity of the TL358 is 2.6 tonnes, whilst the TL358+ model has a maximum lift capacity of three tonnes. The maximum lift height of both models is 5.8 m with 20-inch tyres. The hydraulic system in both is controlled by a single Bobcat joystick in the cab linked to a load-sensing valve block to allow flow sharing, depending on the operator choice and the application need.

The TL358 … rugged design to meet rough terrain conditions.

Another important attribute of the new telehandlers is their versatility, with two different machine dimensions offering compactness where it is required and top performance at all times. The cab can be mounted in two ways – in a low position that results in the very low 2.1 m height or a higher position to optimise visibility for the operator from the cab.

The machines are available as standard with 20-inch tyres, but can also be equipped with 24-inch tyres for better ground clearance and traction. They are equipped with a fully automatic hydrostatic transmission with an inching function for smooth drive and continuous speed variation up to 40 kmph (with 24-inch tyres) without gear change. There is also a quick change function known as ‘Turtle’ mode to ensure precise drive and higher torque transmission. In addition, the machines offer semi-automatic wheel realignment when changing steering modes.

Inside the comfortable, panoramic cab, the operator has an ergonomically designed dashboard with digital display and joystick, from which he can access several unique standard and optional operating features. The first of these is the new SHS (smart handling system) activated via a new button on the dashboard, which allows the operator to easily adjust the speed of the boom movement (lifting, telescoping, tilting) depending on the type of work being carried out. The fast setting can be used for loading or clearing materials, whilst a second setting is suitable for placing fragile loads or other more precise work on site, the spokesman says.

In the Stage IIIB engine versions of the TL358 and TL358+, another standard feature is the new Eco mode – again actuated simply by pressing a new button on the dashboard – which maintains optimum hydraulic performance without using the engine’s full power, adjusting the main machine features to produce a balance between top performance and providing the best performance/fuel consumption ratio. Another standard feature is the FCS (Fast Connect System), which provides quick and easy interchange of hydraulic attachments via an integrated pressure-release system.

The telehandlers offer several important options, including the dual FNR (forward-neutral-reverse) option, which allows the operator to choose between the joystick or a lever on the steering wheel for forward/reverse control. The optional boom suspension system uses a unique dual pressure system when the machines are with or without load for more comfort and increased load retention. An optional fan inverter provides efficient cleaning of the radiator and air intake grill.

“The TL358 and TL358+ offer a rugged design ideal for use on construction sites, with a box-welded frame to meet rough terrain conditions and intensive use, combined with a shielded bottom plate along the entire length of the machine to protect vital components. The strong boom head and the high tensile steel manufactured boom are ideal for heavy-duty loading applications,” the spokesman explains. “The state-of-the-art electronics in the telehandlers is based on can bus technology, allowing smart machine management and monitoring of the main components for easier maintenance.”

“Overall, the telehandlers are designed with minimal maintenance and service work in mind. A wide opening cover provides easy access to the parallel side-mounted engine and the main engine maintenance points. The battery is located at the front of the engine basket for easy access, while the filters are strategically placed for easy and quick replacement,” the spokesman concludes.