A used telehandler can look sound while carrying wear in the boom, pins or hydraulic system. Inspect it with the boom both retracted and extended, and compare movement with the operator’s manual. Excessive side play, knocking as sections move, jerky operation or fresh paint around a repair deserves an explanation and an engineer’s assessment.
Request the serial number, service invoices, hours, previous work type, load chart and list of attachments. Confirm the chart belongs to that model and that the safe working load is legible in the cab. The HSA says rated capacity must not be exceeded and that operating height and reach affect the safe load. A machine advertised by its maximum capacity may have a much lower rating at the reach your farm actually needs.
During a cold start, watch for warning lights, smoke, hard starting and delayed hydraulic response. Check boom hoses, cylinder rods, axle seals, articulation points, brakes, steering, tyres and cab visibility. Test each attachment lock. If permitted, operate the boom under load only with a qualified operator, on suitable level ground and within the chart; never ask the seller to perform a risky demonstration.
Inspect the service support as carefully as the machine. Ask who can supply parts locally, whether the service history includes hydraulic oil and filter changes, and how long repairs typically take during busy periods. A lower-priced telehandler can become poor value if a worn boom or unavailable part causes downtime at silage or harvest.
Budget separately for immediate tyres, fork replacement, hoses, servicing and any inspection required before work. A fresh coat of paint and a recent test do not replace a mechanical inspection. Compare the machine’s reach and attachment compatibility with the telehandler load chart guide.
