How Much Does the Lull 4D3-40 Telehandler Weigh

[MikePhua]

The Origins of Lull and Its Impact on Material Handling
Lull telehandlers were originally developed by Lull Engineering Company, which began producing rough-terrain forklifts in the mid-20th century. Known for their unique sliding boom design, Lull machines offered enhanced reach and load placement precision compared to conventional telescopic handlers. The 4D3-40 model, introduced in the early 1970s, was part of a generation of compact telehandlers designed for construction sites, lumber yards, and industrial facilities where maneuverability and lifting capacity were critical.
By the late 1990s, Lull had been acquired by JLG Industries, which continued to manufacture Lull-branded machines until the brand was retired in 2011. Despite this, thousands of Lull units remain in operation across North America, prized for their mechanical simplicity and robust build.
Specifications of the Lull 4D3-40
The Lull 4D3-40 is a four-wheel-drive, rough-terrain telehandler with a rated lifting capacity of 3,000 pounds. It features a boom that can extend forward and upward, allowing operators to place loads with greater precision than traditional forklifts.
Key specifications include:

• Rated lift capacity: 3,000 lbs (1,360 kg)
  
• Maximum lift height: approximately 40 feet (12.2 meters)
  
• Engine: Typically equipped with a diesel powerplant, such as a Ford or Perkins inline-four
  
• Transmission: Manual or powershift, depending on configuration
  
• Drive: 4WD with planetary axles and hydraulic steering
  

The machine’s weight is a critical factor for transport, stability, and ground pressure. Based on historical data and comparable models, the Lull 4D3-40 weighs approximately 16,000 to 17,500 pounds (7,250 to 7,940 kg), depending on tire size, counterweight configuration, and optional attachments.
Transport Considerations and Towing Requirements
Transporting a Lull 4D3-40 requires a trailer rated for at least 20,000 pounds to accommodate the machine’s weight and ensure compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Operators should consider:

• Trailer axle rating and deck length
  
• Tie-down points and load securement
  
• Ramp angle and ground clearance
  
• Permits for oversize or overweight loads if applicable
  

In one case from Massachusetts, a contractor preparing to sell and relocate a 1971 Lull 4D3-40 had to upgrade his trailer to a tandem-axle gooseneck with air brakes to meet legal hauling standards. The machine’s weight exceeded his previous trailer’s rating by nearly 3,000 pounds, prompting a last-minute change that avoided fines and mechanical failure.
Design Features and Operational Advantages
The hallmark of the Lull design is its horizontal sliding boom, which allows the operator to extend the load forward without raising the boom angle. This feature is particularly useful when placing materials on scaffolding, rooftops, or elevated platforms.
Advantages include:

• Precise load placement without repositioning the machine
  
• Reduced risk of tipping due to lower boom angles
  
• Enhanced visibility and control during lift operations
  
• Mechanical simplicity for easier field repairs
  

However, the sliding boom mechanism requires regular lubrication and inspection. Worn rollers or misaligned tracks can lead to binding or uneven extension, especially in older units.
Maintenance and Longevity
Despite its age, the Lull 4D3-40 remains serviceable with proper care. Common maintenance tasks include:

• Hydraulic fluid replacement every 500 hours
  
• Boom track lubrication every 100 hours
  
• Brake system inspection and adjustment
  
• Engine oil and filter changes every 250 hours
  
• Tire pressure checks and wear monitoring
  

Parts availability can be a challenge, as many components are no longer manufactured. However, aftermarket suppliers and salvage yards often carry compatible parts, especially for engines and hydraulic fittings.
Anecdote from the Pacific Northwest
A framing crew in Oregon used a Lull 4D3-40 for over a decade to place trusses and sheathing on custom homes. When the boom began sticking during extension, they discovered that pine sap and sawdust had accumulated in the track housing. After a thorough cleaning and roller replacement, the machine returned to full function. The crew noted that despite its age, the Lull outperformed newer telehandlers in tight spaces due to its compact frame and intuitive controls.
Industry Trends and Legacy Machines
While modern telehandlers offer electronic controls, load sensors, and joystick steering, many operators still prefer older machines like the Lull 4D3-40 for their tactile feedback and mechanical reliability. A 2023 survey of small contractors in the Midwest found that 28% still operated pre-1990 telehandlers, citing ease of repair and lower operating costs.
As equipment fleets age, understanding the specifications and transport requirements of legacy machines becomes increasingly important. Accurate weight data ensures safe hauling, proper trailer selection, and compliance with regional transport laws.
Conclusion
The Lull 4D3-40 telehandler weighs approximately 16,000 to 17,500 pounds, depending on configuration. Its unique sliding boom design and rugged construction make it a valuable tool for precise material placement in challenging environments. With proper maintenance and transport planning, this legacy machine continues to serve operators who value simplicity, durability, and control.