13.04.2021

JCB Stage V telehandlers

JCB has launched new Stage V compliant versions of its fixed frame telehandlers for the European market which will be fitted with the brand new JCB DieselMax 448 diesel engine.

The new engine will be fitted to all full sized models from the seven metre/3,100kg 531-70 through to the 20 metre/4,000kg 540-200. The compact models are equipped with a Perkins naturally aspirated indirect injection 19kW (25hp) diesel.
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Compact models have the Perkins Stage V diesel

The new 81kW (109hp) engine is said to offer improved performance, greater fuel efficiency, helped by a standard auto stop function that cuts the engine after three minutes of idling. They offer far cleaner emissions with the latest particulate control technologies, which include a Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) with a combined and integrated Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR), all in a compact single ‘can’ with no requirement for Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR).
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The new 540-140 Stage V – note the louvres on the engine cover

The new engines feature four types of regeneration - Passive, Active, Manual and Service - for the integrated DPF/DOC/SCR can which are aimed at reducing downtime. In both Passive and Active regeneration, the machine can continue to operate without any loss of performance. The Manual regeneration requires the machine to be parked up, possibly during a lunch break, however it is only required however if the Active regeneration process has been stopped 20 to 30 times, or if the soot build up levels require it. Finally, the Service regeneration setting can be activated by a JCB dealer, while DPF soot levels can be monitored remotely through the JCB LiveLink telematics system.

In addition, the new engine uses a simpler, electronically controlled Proportional Wastegate Turbocharger, in place of the Variable Geometry Turbocharger, new injectors which increase the number of pulses per cycle for improved cold start performance and larger fuel filters and water trap capacities. The engine dimensions are the same, so no need for large covers, in fact visibility over the engine module is improved slightly, as the exhaust pipe now passes through a new integrated vent grille and is no longer visible.
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The 20 metre 540-200 Stage V telehandler

The engine can also be used with the more environmentally friendly HVO fossil free renewable diesel fuels. JCB says that the new cleaner diesel engines are an important step towards zero emissions. It believes that diesel power will continue to play an important role in powering construction equipment for the rest of this decade and may well lead to clean diesel engines for the future. In the meantime, it is likely to continue to expand its all electric range while testing hydrogen alternatives.

The company is also fitting a smaller JCB/Kohler Stage V engine to its Teletruck range of industrial telehandlers, which have also been revamped with new controls, a large cab, single lever operation, new electrics and improved lift capacities in the order of 150 to 200kg at the maximum two metres forward reach.
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The Teletrucks have JCB/Kohler Stage V diesels

When asked at the end of the launch presentation if it would be attending bauma next year - having boycotted it last time - it said that it would be unlikely to attend any of the international trade fairs going forward, and was looking at other ways to communicate. It also added that it was sold out for 2021 and is now taking orders for the first quarter 2022.

Vertikal Comment

One thing that you can say about JCB is that it has done a first class job when it comes to engine design and technology. Although a late entrant to diesel manufacturing it has tended to lead the way in developing cleaner, more efficient engines without the addition of excessive ‘bolt on’ complex, temporary and bulky solutions.

The re-engined telehandlers will be much appreciated by contractors working on sites in the increasing number of cities with strictly enforced low emission zones.