Agriland and Merlo have come together at the National Ploughing Championships to offer the prize of a year’s use of a Merlo Multifarmer 34.7, a machine that is designed primarily as a telehandler, but happily doubles up as a tractor.

There are two models in the Multifarmer range – the 170hp 44.9 and the 136hp 34.7, both which conform to the Merlo telehandler format, but are quite distinct machines from the standard range.

This is not a case of simply bolting a plate on to the back of the machine that has a couple of lift arms and top link mounting tacked on, everything is fully integrated and designed to work as a whole.

Merlo linkage — The rear linkage is located right behind the back axle as it would be on a tractor

This is a major point that Merlo is keen to stress: the Multifarmers will work with implements as well as a tractor, although the company in no way claims that it is accomplished in the field as a standard tractor.

General manager of Merlo UK and Ireland, Sean Groom, said that prospective customers will tell him how they can see the machine working within their business, rather than him having to suggest where it may be used.

Merlo Multifarmer basics

Starting at the fundamental level, the machines have a frame that is unique to the Multifamer – it is not a standard telehandler frame that has been adapted for use. The greatest difference being that it is noticeably shorter.

This allows the arms and top link to be mounted closer to the rear axle, as they would be on a tractor, ensuring that mounted implements perform as well without any modifications or special settings being required.

Brake pipes — Four spool valves and two brake circuits come as standard on the Multifarmer

There is also a direct drive from the engine to the PTO, rather than a hydraulic connection. This ensures that power transmission is as effective and efficient as it would be on a tractor, and the shaft can be spun at either 540 or 1,000rpm.

Lift capacity also benefits from this proximity to the rear axle, with an impressive 7.5t on the larger machine and 5t on the 34.7.

This impressive performance being made possible, to a certain extent, by the weight of the handler which makes for a stable platform.

Merlo cab interior — With the ability to have suspension on the cab, the seat and the linkage the Merlo cab is well insulated from shocks on the road

A major novelty of the linkage is that it is attached to an accumulator, giving a degree of suspension, which, when combined with cab and seat suspension, will make for a comfortable ride around the yard or down a rough lane.

The draught control function is situated on the arm rest along with the electronic spool valve controls and other tractor orientated switches.

Armrest with safety joystick — The machine will only operate when the joystick is being held

Trailer braking is a dual line hydraulic system with a third standard hydraulic line to enable older trailers to be used, while still conforming to incoming EU legislation.

Efficient braking and a two-speed hydrostatic transmission enables a top speed on the road of 40kph, further adding to the flexibility of this unique machine which also offers full cab suspension.

The model on the Agriland stand is the larger Multifarmer 44.9, however, it is a year’s use of its smaller brother, the Multifarmer 34.7 which is being offered by Agriland in conjunction with Merlo.

Merlo Multifarmer basics

Related Stories:

Machinery: New mixer and half-pipe dump trailer from Redrock

Ploughing 2024: Agriland livestream with unmissable panel discussions & podcasts

Ploughing: Merlo Multifarmer telescopic handler competition at Agriland stand

dual line braking

Creating an appetite for Irish meat and dairy in France

Getting up close with the Merlo Multifarmer at Ploughing 2024