Merlo P35.13, 2001, Hämeenlinna

The king of telehandlers, regardless of what the JCB people say.

An old trusty machine being replaced by a newer one. With us since 2017.

Lifts 3,500 kg and reaches 13 m.

4x4x4 four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering — crab drive and front-wheel steering only.

Tyres approx. 50% tread remaining.

As an older machine there is some play/wear. Marks its territory like the king of the yard.

Windows intact.

Block heater; starts even at −15 °C without it.

Not ideal but sometimes necessary.

Roof wiper does not work or is missing its blade.

Speedometer does not work. Top speed is 25 km/h — same as full-throttle RPM. I have not felt the need to repair it. Hour meter does not work.

Tachometer works; fuel and temperature gauges OK. Load-monitoring sensor wiring is broken, so it does not beep or warn.

Generally carries loads — you will notice if the rear wheels lift. One indicator bulb is out. A reverse alarm has not been missed.

The handbrake disc is slightly warped; the brake pads click rhythmically while driving. Handbrake works.

Very nimble for its size.

The body tilts and shifts laterally.

No special equipment needed for transport. Weighs approx. 9 tonnes. Fits in a semi-trailer. I do not think it fits inside a sea container due to height. But it empties a 6 m container nicely — in that task the body tilt is a great feature.

During our ownership the engine oil has been changed every year. An amazing machine — the oil does not blacken at all; always clear when drained.

Same for fuel and hydraulic filters.

Rear and axle oils etc. have been changed every other year.

Very versatile machine. A top choice as a yard machine for an industrial hall. Does snow, lamp changes, load unloading, etc.

Some sort of towing hitch at the rear.

Quick-release implement coupling, hydraulic; the same line can be used for attachments. Comes with bucket and forks.