One of the latest newcomers to the farm machinery sector is the new Merlo MF34.7 MultiFarmer, first versions of which arrived into Ireland only days ago.
Distributed by McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill and Rathcoole, the Italian-made telehandler-tractor hybrid is claimed to be the solution for performing farm work such as handling, lifting, towing, tillage and transporting loads.
At the front, it has a two-section, 7m telescopic boom that can be fitted with a myriad of attachments to transport silage bales and heavy loads in the normal way.
At the rear, it has a conventional three-point linkage, hydraulic trailer pickup hitch and high powered mechanical PTO that works like a tractor for towing loads and operating trailed implements.
Power comes from a 136HP four-cylinder turbocharged Deutz Tier 4 engine via CVTronic transmission “to provide smooth acceleration without interrupting torque from 0 to its top speed of 40 kmph”, Merlo says.
Reduction in diesel consumption is managed by the EPD (Eco Power Drive) system.
Cab width has been extended and the layout redesigned for these machines, according to the manufacturer.
New enhancements include hydro-pneumatic suspended cab, joystick with reverse shuttle, inching control pedal, MCDC (Dynamic Load Control) anti-tipping system, optional 8.5in colour display and air conditioning.
The new Merlo MultiFarmer is described by McHale Plant Sales general manger Denis McGrath as a “tractor in telehandler clothing – combining all the characteristics of a traditional agricultural telescopic handler with those of a tractor”.
In addition to the MF34.7, other new arrivals in the MultiFarmer range are the MF34.9 and the larger MF40.7 and MF40.9, McHale Plant Sales says.
