Super Compact Sets Its Sight on Multiple Applications

Enlarge Image Built in Pennsylvania, the G5-18A meets the needs of a number of industries.

December 19, 2007 •  It's no secret that compact telehandlers are the fastest growing machines in the telescopic handler market segment, and JLG Industries, McConnellsburg, Pa., has entered the field with a new “super compact” to meet the needs of a number of industries. Last week, the company showed the new G5-18A at its Kennesaw, Ga.-based ServicePlus facility.

 

Built in Shippensburg, Pa., the 5,500-pound capacity G5-18A was designed with four applications in mind: construction, landscaping, municipalities, and agriculture. The G5-18A boasts a capacity of 4,400 pounds at the 18'4” maximum lift height and 1,850 pounds at the 10'10” maximum forward reach. Travel speed is 16 mph and boom cycle time is 21 seconds, allowing operators to quickly move materials on a variety of jobsites.

 

Powering the unit is an 84-hp Perkins 1104D. According to Brian Boeckman, JLG product parent • telehandlers, this size engine was selected for trades like landscapers to maneuver easier in rough terrains. Axles are supplied by Dana, and the unit features a Rexroth hydrostatic transmission. A Sauer-Danfoss fixed gear pump is used to operate boom function.

 

Maneuverability was a focus of the G5-18A's design. The machine boasts a 126-inch turning radius and compact dimensions, such as a 144.5-inch length (less forks) and 71.5-inch width. At 75.6 inches tall, this machine can fit through a finished double-wide door. The G5-18A comes standard with three operator-selectable steering modes: four-wheel circle, four-wheel crab, and two-wheel steer. Standard tires are 12x16, but the demo unit in Georgia was fitted with the optional 14x17.5 tires.

 

Enlarge Image The switch on the far left allows operators to select joystick mode.

Operating weight is 10,800 pounds, which helps eliminate the need to have a CDL license for a driver to transport this machine on an adequately sized trailer. The G5-18A's low GVW also allows the machine to be lifted by a crane at most jobsites for use on a higher-level floors.

 

The operator cab is designed for maximum comfort. A built-in armrest, tilted single joystick, cell phone charger, and an adjustable seat are just some of the features. Options include a radio-ready package and an enclosed cab.

 

A unique control feature was added to the G5-18A, allowing operators to select their preferred motion. When the joystick is moved left to right in the “lift mode,” the machine will boom in and out. In the “loader mode,” the left-right motion will tilt the attachment up and down. One switch in the cab allows operators to choose the preferred mode.

 

Enlarge Image Two panels open for engine access.

For service, two panels open for engine access, and filters, starters, and fill points are located up front. Boeckman said JLG paid close attention to service needs by making the engine area easily accessible. He added that standard maintenance intervals are at 500 hours, which is longer than other compact telehandlers in the field.

 

Featured attachments for the G5-18A include 48-inch standard and side-tilt carriages; pallet, lumber, and cubing forks; buckets ranging from a 73-inch, 1 cubic-yard general purpose bucket, a 72-inch 1.7 cubic-yard light material bucket, and a 72-inch 1 cubic-yard grapple bucket; and a crane hook. The G5-18A features a universal coupler and adapter plate to allow operators to use skid steer attachments. However, Boeckman said JLG recommends that operators use JLG couplers and attachments for ground-engaging applications.

 

For more information, visit www.jlg.com.