Evaluating the 2006 JLG G9-43A Telehandler for Farm and Seasonal Use

[MikePhua]

The JLG G9-43A and Its Role in Material Handling
The JLG G9-43A is a mid-range telehandler introduced in the early 2000s by JLG Industries, a company founded in 1969 and known for its aerial work platforms and material handling equipment. The G9-43A was designed to meet the needs of construction sites, agricultural operations, and industrial yards requiring high reach and lifting capacity. With a rated lift capacity of 9,000 lbs and a maximum lift height of 43 feet, this model balances power and reach in a compact frame.
Powered by a John Deere diesel engine, the G9-43A offers mechanical reliability and parts availability, particularly in North American markets. Its open cab configuration, while less suited for extreme weather, provides easy access for maintenance and visibility during loading operations.
Assessing a High-Hour Unit with Missing Components
A unit with approximately 7,500 operating hours and an asking price of CAD $32,000 falls within the expected range for a machine of this age and class. However, several factors must be considered before purchase:

• One tire mounted in reverse indicates prior service inconsistency or rushed maintenance
  
• Missing cab door reduces operator protection from weather and debris
  
• Open cab may require aftermarket enclosure for winter use
  
• High-hour machines should be inspected for boom wear, hydraulic leaks, and drivetrain fatigue
  

Recommendations before purchase:

• Conduct a full hydraulic pressure test and inspect cylinder seals
  
• Check articulation points for excessive play or bushing wear
  
• Verify engine compression and injector performance
  
• Inspect electrical harnesses for corrosion, especially in exposed cab configurations
  
• Review service records and confirm regular fluid changes and filter replacements
  

A farmer in Saskatchewan once purchased a similar unit and found that the missing door allowed snow to accumulate on the control panel, leading to electrical shorts during spring thaw. Installing a vinyl curtain and relocating the fuse box resolved the issue.
Performance in Mud and Soft Terrain
The G9-43A is equipped with four-wheel drive and large agricultural-style tires, making it capable of traversing soft ground. However, its weight and wheelbase can cause rutting or bogging in saturated soils. Compared to older cable-controlled machines like the Sellick 249TS, the G9-43A offers better traction but requires more finesse in throttle and steering input.
Tips for soft terrain operation:

• Use low gear and avoid sharp turns to reduce soil disturbance
  
• Maintain tire pressure slightly below spec for increased surface contact
  
• Avoid operating with boom extended while traveling over uneven ground
  
• Consider adding rear ballast for improved stability when lifting heavy loads
  

In muddy conditions, the open cab may expose the operator to splatter and cold wind. Installing a soft cab kit or windscreen can improve comfort and reduce fatigue.
Cold Weather Reliability and Seasonal Transitions
Older cable-controlled machines often suffer from seasonal stiffness, with linkages freezing or seizing during temperature swings. The G9-43A, with its hydraulic joystick controls and sealed cab electronics, performs better in cold climates—provided the hydraulic fluid is winter-rated and the battery system is maintained.
Winterization checklist:

• Use synthetic hydraulic fluid rated for -30°C or lower
  
• Install block heater and battery warmer for reliable cold starts
  
• Grease all pivot points with low-temp lubricant
  
• Inspect joystick seals and control valve response at low temperatures
  
• Replace cab door or install enclosure to retain heat
  

One operator in Manitoba reported that his G9-43A started reliably at -25°C after installing a 1,000W block heater and switching to synthetic fluids. He also added a canvas cab kit sourced from a local fabricator, which helped retain warmth during long snow-clearing sessions.
Comparing to Legacy Telehandlers
The Sellick 249TS, a 1980s-era teleporter, uses mechanical linkages and cable controls that are prone to freezing and wear. While rugged, these systems require frequent adjustment and lubrication. The G9-43A represents a significant upgrade in terms of hydraulic precision, operator comfort, and lifting capacity.
Advantages of upgrading:

• Faster cycle times and smoother boom control
  
• Better visibility and ergonomic layout
  
• Easier maintenance with modular components
  
• Compatibility with modern attachments and forks
  

However, newer machines also introduce electronic systems that require diagnostic tools and dealer support. Buyers should weigh the benefits of performance against the complexity of repair.
Conclusion
The 2006 JLG G9-43A telehandler offers a compelling upgrade for farm and seasonal operations, especially when transitioning from older cable-controlled machines. While the unit in question shows signs of wear and missing components, its core design and John Deere powerplant provide a solid foundation for restoration and use. With proper inspection, winterization, and terrain awareness, the G9-43A can serve reliably across seasons and tasks. In the world of telehandlers, evolution means more than horsepower—it means adapting to the demands of every field, every season, and every load.