With a more than 128-year heritage, Pettibone is still innovative, manufacturing telehandlers with features that are anything but antiquated. The company presented the 744 Extendo telehandler at the Equipment Showcase. The machine boasts the largest cylinders, rods, pins, bushings, and chains in the industry, according to John Graham, western regional manager.

The 744 Extendo is powered by a 110-hp Cummins QSB4.5 turbocharged electronically controlled Tier 3-compliant engine. A Carraro four-speed forward, four-speed reverse transmission is mounted directly to the engine. The center-mounted drivetrain allow it to be inherently balanced.

The hydraulic tank is made of durable steel and has a recessed sight gauge to prevent damage. It is actually two tanks in one with a “dirt tank” that initially holds the oil. Here it settles before passing through a 10-micron filter into a second reservoir. This also minimizes contamination that might be introduced from a dirty oil drum. The 34.8-gallon steel fuel tank is placed just behind the operator’s cab. For engine service, simply pull a pin and slide the hood forward. The air filter is easily accessible and has a visual pop up to signal servicing. 

The rear axle stabilization system works in such a way that any time the operator sets the parking brake, regardless of boom angle, the machine goes from a three-point stability triangle to a four-point stability rectangle, locking the rear axle and frame sway. It also incorporates slow pivot mode any time the boom is above 20 degrees. 

Frame leveling is an industry-leading 12 degrees, right and left. Twin lift cylinders are mounted at an angle on a spherical bearing to keep the boom centered when rising, thus relieving stress on the entire lifting assembly.

The operator compartment is fully instrumented so the operator can easily see what’s going on with all the systems with the gauges. The cab features a transmission declutch switch that, when engaged, declutches the transmission and allows  for maximum  output for operating attachments. When the operator sets the parking brake, the transmission automatically declutches. The cab offers a total of 17 inches from the dashboard to the operator’s knee allowing plenty of room. A 3-inch retractable seat belt is standard, as is the suspension seat. 

Boom, auxiliary, and fork tilt functions are operated through one pilot-operated, hydraulic-over-hydraulic infinitely proportional joystick. Two rocker switches on the joystick operate fork tilt and auxiliary. The cab features also features dual armrests. Gear and direction change are column-mounted for easy access. The parking brake is spring-applied hydraulically released. The transmission declutches when the operator sets it. Tires on the machine are 14-ply 13x24. The higher ply rating allows a higher 80-psi inflation for more side stability.

Available options on the machine include an enclosed cab, heat and air conditioning, defrost, light packages, roadway and boom lights, and beacons. The machine comes standard with a 48-inch fixed carriage, 48-inch pallet forks, and auxiliary hydraulics, and Pettibone allows all attachments that meet the capabilities of the machine. The company does allow work platform attachments.
--Lift & Access