The marketers of rough-terrain, vertical-mast forklifts have endured even in spite of overall diminished sales. For instance, there are at least 19 various brands in North America, with more than 100 various models available. In regards to manufacturers, there is practically the same number of telehandler makers, even if their products are being marketed under 24 various brands. Understandably, some of the brand names sell both telehandlers and lift trucks. Some of the key players within the industry consist of names like Case, JCB, Tovel, Lift King, Sellick, Manitou, Ingersoll Rand and Omega Lift.
The marketers of lift trucks have increased their maneuverability advantages by borrowing a few of the features which have increased the telehandler's fame. Like for instance, Omega Lift, AUSA, Tovel and Manitou utilize hydraulic chassis-leveling systems that allow the operator to square up the frame of the truck when it is sitting on uneven terrain in order for lifts to be made more safely. This particular feature is offered as an alternative by Swinger, Load Lifter, and Lift King lift trucks.
The 4-wheel steer is a different telehandler-like technology. Omega Lift, Lift King, Tovel and Load Lifter are makers which offer rigid framed machinery that operate on 4 equal sized tires. These four-wheel coordinated steering and crab-steering modes provide the fantastic maneuverability which rivals the 4-wheeled steering conventional lift truck models. There are additional flexibility options with the sideways shuttle crab-steer mode as well.
The carriage sideshift or side-shifting mast could enhance placement dexterity. A typical feature that is quite common is the mast sideshift. This is offered on most available lift trucks. It allows the operator to hydraulically move the mast a few inches to either side of center. Another option is the carriage sideshift. This works by moving the carriage to both sides of the center of the mast.