The new TCM T5C internal combustion forklift trucks are now available throughout Southern Africa from equipment supplier Criterion Equipment, after being launched in February.

Criterion Equipment MD Brenton Kemp tells Engineering News that, owing to global logistic challenges being experienced out of the Middle East, the first shipment of TCM T5C models only arrived in mid-May. However, he claims that the market’s interest in the model has been phenomenal, with Criterion Equipment having already received a large number of customer orders.

The new models are available in all neighbouring countries, where Criterion Equipment has a subdealer presence.

Kemp says these robust new 2.5 t and 3 t forklift trucks from TCM are designed to meet demand for reliable machines that deliver high productivity, secure lifting and extended service life. Added to this, the TCM T5C models, which are supplied with solid tyres as standard, have improved features for easier manoeuvrability, more operator comfort, better safety on site and lower maintenance requirements.

“The low centre of gravity provides balance and stability, while high torque delivers steady lift speeds, even when carrying heavy loads,” explains Kemp.

He says the fully hydraulic power steering system enables the operator to navigate freely and to turn easily in confined spaces and an integrated digital display monitor relays critical information clearly to the operator.

Kemp notes that the TCM T5C series has many features that improve safety during operation, including multidirectional visibility for clear front and rear fields of vision, as well as a reinforced overhead safety guard which protects the operator and provides shelter when working outdoors, without obstructing visibility.

“What’s also important is the mast interlock system that locks mast movement whenever the key switch is off. The neutral safety start feature only allows the machine to be started when the control lever is in neutral. The forklift cannot start when it is in gear,” he explains.

The high-performance TCM T5C machines are powered by a 44 kW diesel engine that deliver efficient lifting of heavy loads, while travelling at optimal speeds. The TCM forklift trucks are also available with versatile GK25 dual fuel engines that run on petrol or liquid petroleum gas.

An efficient powertrain maximises the truck’s power, while curtailing vibrations. This reduces wear of critical components and ensures comfort for the operator. The cooling system is designed to regulate airflow and prevent the engine from overheating, especially during operation in high humidity conditions and under extreme temperatures.

A powerful fan, which cools the engine and radiator to maintain high performance, forms part of the efficient engine management designed to reduce stress to key components and sustain truck performance and reliability.

The easily-accessible engine bay is large and neatly organised, with sufficient space for swift routine repairs and servicing.

“The affordability of the TCM T5C model, relative to what is available in the marketplace, means that this offering aligns with the downturn in economic activity,”Kemp says, adding that these models, consistent with all other TCM forklift models, are available on operating or finance lease options, to include maintenance contracts.

Criterion Equipment also offers a technical advisory, spare parts, repair and maintenance service to ensure optimum performance from its machine.