Compact handlers are becoming popular on livestock farms, either as a sidekick to a larger machine or as an alternative to a skiddy or little loader. Weidemann has done well in this market since introducing the T4512 in 2009, with a newer version of the 1.25t capacity 

If you have not got up close to a Weidemann T4512, the first point you will note seeing one in the metal is the machine’s compact dimensions. Although it may look like a shrunken version of a ‘conventional’ telehandler, which in effect it is, the appeal goes beyond small size. Of course, a T4512 can access smaller buildings and yards, but these diminutive handlers  score in their simple handling abilities. These are ‘jump in’ and go machines well-suited to handling the loads that will barely warm up a larger alternative.  

It is this wider appeal that has seen interest in these models increase, with many livestock users seeing them as  more than just a compact alternative to a larger machine that is frequently under-utilised capacity wise. With new retail prices of around £50k, a Weidmann T4512 is more ‘affordable’ too. Sales have increased as has used model availability.

Basic outline

At launch back in 2009, Weidmann offered two power variants of the T4512, the 23kW/31hp CC35 and 30kW/40hp CC40, with three-cylinder Yanmar diesel engines with respective capacities of 1.3- and 1.5-litres.  Both variants have a rated lift of 1,200kg, with 440kg at full reach, all-wheel steering giving an outside turn radius of 5.21m (see profi driving impressions: gen one,12/10 and gen two in 04/21). Ground clearance is listed at 0.26m on standard 10.0/75-15.3 tyres with an all up weight, with a fully glazed cab, of between 2.75 and 2.90 tonnes. 

As to layout, the T4512 follows a ‘conventional’ format of cab to the left of a central telescopic boom with side-mounted engine. The Carraro supplied ‘open’ front and rear axles with no limited slip differential. A positive diff lock is an added cost option but will be a rare find. A dual range hydrostatic transmission completes the outline package. As to key options, these would include a choice of partially glazed cab and, on paper,  either a 42l/min gear pump or ‘HiFlow’ tandem pump with an increased output of 70l/min. The latter has no take up in the UK, but the more powerful CC40 T4512 has become the default choice, as did a fully glazed cab. There are no decals on the machine to indicate engine output.

Stage V emission regulations came into force for the 2021 model year and with it the introduction of the second generation models.  Weidemann opted to offer an 18.4kW/25hp Yanmar diesel in place of the former generation’s 31hp unit at the lower capacity end. This was to allow the company to offer a T4512 without any form of exhaust after-treatment. The more powerful engine option saw output raised to 33kW/45hp but this variant needs to be fitted with a DOC (diesel oxidation catalyst) and DPF (diesel particulate filter) to meet Stage V but AdBlue is not required. As with the original gen one models, it is the 45hp engine in Stage V models that has become the default UK choice. 

From 2021, Weidmann also began to offer the T4512e. This is powered by a 33.1kW electric motor with a choice of 18.0kW or 28.0kW battery pack. These models are not considered here.

Check out the separate panel on page XX for other ‘second generation’ 2021 Stage V model developments.

Euro attachment carriage will be the default UK fit but skid steer and in-house Weidemann quick-coupler alternatives also available so check. Third service and hydraulic attachment lock standard.
Third service pipework on rear of attachment carriage needs looking over as it can get damaged. A release under pressure option is well worth having if you regularly swap between powered attachments.

Basic spec check

Dealers will typically specify a T4512 to meet end customer needs, a relatively ‘short’ options list nonetheless making it important to know exactly what to expect from a used buy. Further, there are standard spec differences between first generation and second gen Stage V T4512 models.  Aside from the obvious engine power, key spec checks can include:

Cleat 10.0/75-15.3 cross ply tyres are standard, but there will be other choices offered including those with a block tread and radials to include 315/55 R16 sizes. Tyre wear tends to be relatively low, 4,000 hours not being uncommon, so it will not be unusual to find a used buy still fitted with its original rubber.  

The two main hydraulic gear pump outputs offered are 42 and 70 litres per minute, but in practice it is the former that all UK models will be fitted with.  All pumps, including the hydrostatic drive system,  are made by Bosch Rexroth

First generation models produced before the 2021 model year have just all-wheel steering. Stage V models have the added choice of front- and crab-steering. 

A Euro attachment carriage will be the default fit but skid steer and in-house Wiedemann are also offered . Hydraulic attachment lock and a third service are standard UK spec.

First generation models have a dual range hydrostatic drive, essentially work and transport, the latter topping out at 20km/hr. A 30km/hr option was also available. Stage V models may have up to four drive modes but in outline the basics are Auto for maximum performance and eco-mode that reduces the maximum engine speed  to 2,200rpm once the desired driving speed has been reached. Two further drive options for use with hydraulically operated attachments are offered but rare.

Rear three-point linkage and 540rpm pto had a decent uptake on gen one models. Unusual but not as rare as you might think.

Other options to look out for include extra work lights and locking differentials (rare). 

There are more choices available but these are the key specs to look for on a used buy.

The drive layout has not altered since the T4512 was introduced, the hydro motor (in blue) mounting on the rear axle with a shaft taking drive to the front axle. These handlers all have permanent four-wheel drive, with an open diff as standard. Problems with the transmission are unusual if the oil and filters are changed to schedule. Wear in the track rods is unlikely to be an issue, even on units with 5,000 hours plus on the clock.

Key used checks – no hidden surprises

The adage that if it pivots, runs or rolls it will wear will of course apply, so it pays to look the handler over carefully. If you are methodical, it will make this easier. Most of what follows is obvious but it is all too easy to miss something.

General condition

Weidemann T4512 telehandlers have a good standard finish and respond well to a thorough clean. A few battle scars are to be expected on a well-used machine but even high hour examples should ‘scrub up’ well. There are no key areas of cosmetic concern but check for corrosion around the base of the cab and underneath the floor. If muck is not cleaned off the headstock and front of the chassis it can lead to surface corrosion that can spoil the look of an otherwise sound machine. A point to note is all steel edges are rounded off in the factory. This is to help reduce the chance of the paint failing back from the edge of these vulnerable areas.

The Stage V compliant 25hp 1.3 litre Yanmar engine is of a similar physical size to the 45hp 1.5 litre unit, with both allocated the same amount of under bonnet space. This is despite the latter needing to accommodate a bulky emission system. Check the radiators are clean and look for any evidence of overheating. Units worked in dusty conditions or handling sawdust need a regular clean. Note around a third of the radiator looks after hydraulic cooling. The radiator fan is hydraulically driven.

Headstock and attachment carriage

Pivot pin wear is an obvious starting point. Look for evidence of greasing and damaged or missing grease points. A dealer prepared machine should be fine, but do not expect all pivots to have new pins or bushes. Look for corrosion around the base of the attachment carriage and signs of damage. If possible, hook up a bucket or forks, checking for locking on and easy release. This should also show up any misalignment that from a handling mishap.

New pins and bushes are not difficult to fit, a point to note if you pick up some play that does not warrant immediate attention but will do further down the line. The trick is to keep on top of wear before the bush is worn through. The pins and bushes will appear ‘slimmer and thinner’ when compared to a larger machine. 

Boom extension and pivot wear

Any play should be easy enough to pick up but it is less likely on these small handlers than may be the case with a larger machine. This is mainly down to usage, these machines tending to have led an easier life with lower hours. If an auto-lube system is fitted, look for evidence of it having done its job and ensure it is topped up with grease.

Rams, seals and hydraulic pipes

The way in which the main hydraulic hoses are run on top of the boom should mean they are less liable to damage, with problems here unlikely. Those hoses that run to the carriage and attachments need a check to include the couplings. Stage V models will have flat face couplings as standard. The main boom lift and carriage tilt rams are not known for problems but still check for evidence of seal leaks. Wear in the ram pivot points is uncommon even on higher hour machines but still check.

MAKE SURE THE MACHINE FITS YOUR NEEDS

  • Before just assuming you know what you want, it may well pay talking to your dealer. They will not want to supply a machine that turns out to be the wrong choice. With that said, a T4512 will be likely to cover most yard handling needs currently covered by a larger model, a point to note if you are not exploiting your existing handler. 
  • Cleat pattern will tend to be less expensive than a block alternative when it comes to replacements, but on a used handler the block tyres are unlikely to add a big premium to the bottom line. If these are the tyres you want, hold out and see if a suitably equipped used buy becomes available. This is where it pays to call a dealer and tell them what you need and would like.
  • Although crab and front steering are offered on Stage V machines, the simple all-wheel steer of Gen One machines is fine for most, with traction without needing differential locks explaining why the latter are rarely specified.

Axles and steering

Hub leaks and steering wear will be unusual, even on machines that have clocked up to 6,000 hours plus. This is in part down to reduced tyre scrub in all steering modes due to both axles having open differentials. Still take a good look and switch between the steering modes on Stage V models. Tyre wear should be even across the axles.

Rear axle pivot

This is one area that can be prone to wear, but it is easy to check. Fire up the loader and extend the boom preferably with a loaded bucket to help reduce the load on the rear axle. Now push on a rear tyre and see if you can detect any play as it is rocked back and forth. Any slight sway suggests there is wear in the pivot. The axle pivot is often overlooked when it comes to getting greased, with machines used over rough ground more likely to suffer. This is a common wear point on these models and it pays to have it repaired if even slight play is picked up. 

Factory shots that show the styling differences between original 2009 model and current Stage V design. Under the skin, the core elements are much the same, but later models have improved cab and ‘feel’ more refined to drive. Need a quick and easy identifier? If it has a red roof, it is a Stage V machine. Note raised engine cover of Stage V model, the same design being fitted to the 25hp machine despite the latter not needing to accommodate bulky emission hardware.

FIRST GENERATION VERSUS STAGE V

  • First generation models launched in 2009, with sales in the UK from 2010. Second generation Stage V introduced for 2021 model year.
  • Dimensions for all models unchanged, with the same reach. Stage V models will lift 50kg more.
  • Yanmar engines retained, but output of 1.3 litre Stage V unit reduced from 31hp to 25hp to allow it to run without any after-treatment system. The Stage V 1.5 litre engine’s output increased from the first generation unit’s 40hp to 45hp. The latter requires a DPF and DOC emission control system. 
  • First generation models have dual range hydrostatic drive. Stage V T4512 models fitted with more advanced Electric Control Drive, (ECDrive),  that is claimed to optimise performance. In broad outline, Auto mode allows the engine to run at speeds of up to 2,750rpm for optimum performance. Eco-mode reduces the engine speed to 2,200rpm once the desired driving speed has been reached. Two further drive mode options are available, both designed for use with hydraulically operated attachments but rare in UK ag sector. 
  • All variants with the lower power engines will have a transport speed of up to 20km/hr. Stage V 45hp models will have been offered with a choice of 20km/hr or 30km/hr speeds, a speed decal on the cab door showing the selected option. Some 40hp First generation models were offered with a 30km/hr speed, but check. 
  • Hydraulic pump output of 42l/min pretty much standard. 
  • Fuel tank capacity of Stage V models increased from the first generation’s 25- to 33-litres. Hydraulic tank capacity for all variants 40-litres.
  • Stage V models add front- and crab-steer modes
  • Electric handbrake with auto- and hill-hold function on Stage V handlers. This electronically controlled brake applies automatically when the machine comes to a standstill, when it is in neutral or when the operator leaves the cab. 
  • Cab refinements on Stage V red roof models include fold-down armrest with storage compartment, improved seat with air suspension, drinks holder and an oddments storage net. Air conditioning is also offered as are radio and USB connection options. The cab fittings on Stage V models got an uplift with an updated joystick.
  • Glazed cab on Stage V models default in the UK, with front, rear and roof screen wipers as standard. Retractable sun screen. Heated rear window. 
  • EquipCare three year/3,000 hour warranty from new.
Cab of original 2009 to 2021 First generation models perfectly good for most users, with surprising amount of room for the operator when the machine’s overall dimensions are considered. Grey plastic may be black on some models. Current T4512 handlers benefit from a revised layout, with improved joystick, wide brake/inching pedal and better heating and ventilation that can include air conditioning.

Parking brake

First generation models have a mechanical handbrake that is liable to seize if not periodically cleaned and checked. Most users do not apply the brake as the hydrostatic drive will hold the machine on the level. Stage V handlers have an electronic system that automatically engages the brake as soon as the engine is stopped. These tend to be trouble free but still check.

Engine

If treated to fresh oil and filters every 500 hours or so, the Yanmar engine used in the T4512 should be both trouble free and long lived. The DOC and DPF system on 45hp Stage V models does need to be allowed to run through its active regeneration process, many of these handlers not being worked hard enough for this to be done within a normal working cycle. 

A point to look for is evidence of overheating. This can be caused if the radiator is run clogged with debris, with machines used to handle materials such as sawdust needing more frequent attention. If the engine does overheat, it may blow a head gasket. Look for evidence of water leaks and check for corrosion on the radiator, particularly at the base. Coolant should typically be renewed every other year.

Transmission

The transmission oil should be renewed at 1,500 hour intervals. Problems in the drive pump and motor are rare but still swap between the drive modes and ensure the machine operates smoothly. Apart from looking for leaks and evidence of damage, there is little you can do to really check the machine’s transmission but look at the oil and check it is clean and does not have a burnt smell. If you are buying privately, it may be worth calling the supplying dealer. You cannot expect them to reveal the handlers service history but they may offer some advice.

Cab and controls

Worn seats and door seals rubbed by frequent trips to and from the cab are part of a used telehandlers lot. Some of these handlers will have low hours but have seen a frequent short periods of operation so wear in these areas is to be expected. Also check for damaged switches, with broken tops quite common.  

Stage V models have a revised cab interior with a cloth covered seat. Air seat suspension a common fit on the more powerful 45hp variants. The foot pedals are changed with an easier to reach drive pedal and a broad brake/inching pedal.
A First generation handler cab will typically have mechanically suspended seat with a vinyl covering. A worn seat pan is par for the course, a point to note if a cover is fitted. On these models, the drive and brake/inching pedal are the same size. Check the handbrake. These often seize through lack of use.

Mirrors and mudguards

Clearly these are the most likely items to get damaged. A dealer may replace cracked mudguards with new if they detract from a machine that otherwise presents well, but do not expect new items to be ‘thrown in with the deal’ if the guards are on the tatty side. At around £150 each, it is clear a new set will impact on the bottom line. 

WEIDEMANN VS KRAMER

  • There are three members in the Wacker Neuson compact telehandler range, the subject Wiedemann T4512, Kramer KT144 and Wacker Neuson TH412. All three come off the same Weidemann production line in Germany and they share a common core basic design. That said, there are differences, with the Kramer KT144 having a 300kg heavier build and 200kg increased lift capacity; a Stage V KT144  will lift up to 1,450kg. 
  • Does this make a difference and should it influence your used buying choices? If you need extra maximum lift capacity then there is your answer. Will you notice this capacity in work? Not in terms of general handling, as both the KT4512 and Kramer KT144 share the same hydraulics. Where it will show up is when raising a heavy load at extended reach.
Block tread tyres are a cost option, most sticking to cleat designs that are less expensive to renew. Tyre wear on the T4512 tends to be low, with reduced scrub in turns due to the axles having an open differential. Locking front differentials have proven a rarely specified option.

Tyres

Look for damage and any sign that the tyre is starting to fail structurally. Low tyre tread wear is not the same as the rubber being in good condition. Also look for damaged wheel rims.

The rear axle pivot above the hydraulic drive motor has a grease point that is often overlooked. Wear in the pin and bush is common, so check carefully for any play (see text). Allow upwards of £500 for a repair.

How much?

Used equipment prices are forever in a state of change but as a guide consider £25,000 a good starting budget for a first generation 40hp T4512. This should secure a sound machine. You can pay less but seek advice if you are looking at the ‘well-worn and tired’ end of the market.  Fixing a badly worn rear axle pivot, renewing failing carriage attachment pins and pivots plus replacing a worn seat pan and renewing the odd damaged switch can swallow £2,000. Allow at least £1,250 for a fresh set of tyres or at least double that for high specification block pattern items.

Original joystick offers good proportional control, current design fitted from 2021 featuring a revised layout for ancillary controls. In the cab, press every button. The tops of some may have detached. New switches will cost around £50.

Summary

Wiedemann T4512 handlers can make a sound used purchase, first generation models that do enter the used market typically having little trouble finding a new home. You will pay more for a later Stage V machine for obvious reasons, with well-cared for examples tending to have a tenacious grip on their residual value. As is always the case, it is not what you pay but how much the machine costs over its working life that really counts.

With thanks to: Rob Sunter, Carr’s Billington, Penrith as well as Andy Boland and Adam Graham, Wiedemann UK.

James de Havilland

For more up-to-date farming news click here and subscribe now to profi and save.