The Mustang 642, introduced in 2003, is what the company calls its “value machine.” Designed for the rental customer, the 6,000-pound telehandler features the important basics without a lot of bells and whistles. This telehandler features a quick-attach system void of pins to switch attachments, which eliminates the hassle of losing pins. For non-powered attachments, operators are required to leave the cab once to release the attachment. The next attachment will be automatically locked in place when coupled. The see-through boom nose design allows the operator to have visibility of the attachment. For optimum protection and to prevent mud spray as the tires are turned, the Mustang 642 features a standard axle-mounted, front-left fender. Although not standard, the Mustang 642 can be equipped with outriggers, which will increase the lifting capacity at full forward reach by 200 percent. The front hydraulic tilt cylinder is bolted to a Dana 212 axle. For tires, 13x24 are standard, while pneumatic or foam-filled rock or road grader styles are available as options. The side-mounted lockable fuel tank has a 47-gallon capacity, and the battery is located in a lockable compartment that also doubles as storage. The hydraulic tank is nicely concealed within the frame, and the standard air filter can be upgraded with a pre-cleaner. Operators or technicians can access the engine from both sides of the machine. A Tier 2-compliant (soon to be replaced with a Tier 3) John Deere 4045T diesel engine is currently standard; a Tier 3-compliant 115-hp John Deere 4045T is optional. A C-channel structure on the exterior sidewall of the boom adds strength while enhancing visibility to the rear. A bolt-on cover protects the valving and also mitigates tampering with the backup alarm. At the back of the machine, the counterweight is integrated into the frame so it’s not hanging off the sides, giving the machine a great center of gravity. The 10° frame leveling is standard, as is a rear axle stabilization system. The Mustang 642’s RAS works anytime the boom is elevated above 60°. After the boom reaches this elevation, the axle locks, the brake is set, and the transmission shifts into neutral. To protect the operator from debris and engine noise, the cab features rear and side glass. Two brake lights and a backup light are standard The operator’s switch bank is located high in the upper right side of the cab, which common throughout the entire Mustang value series. A suspension seat is standard, as is a 3-inch seatbelt. Dual pilot-operated joysticks control all boom functions. The manual brake system uses dual master cylinders. Options on the Mustang 642 include auxiliary hydraulic option, a light package, enclosed cab, heating system, and a low-profile beacon. Another option is the work platform system, which is a wired e-stop located at the boom tip that allows a worker to kill the engine when used with an approved work platform. Wireless control is an upgrade to the system, which allows engine start/stop and boom operation. It uses a frequency hopping system for safety and can magnetically attach or strap to the basket. --Lift & Access