Mustang Manufacturing Co has added two new telescopic handlers to its Value Series.

The new Mustang 642, which is replacing the 638, has an increased lift height from 38 feet (11.5 metres) to 42 feet (12.8 metres).

The 844, a new model, has a rated lift capacity of 8,000 pounds (3.62 tonnes) and a lift height of 44 feet (13.4 metres).

Both new models share boom designs with the larger Mustang Deluxe telehandler series.

Other new advances include pilot-operated joystick controls, a new tilt cylinder and an optional Work Platform System (WPS).

Mustang marketing manager Doug Snorek said the two-joystick design was optimised using computer simulation to improve ergonomics.

"We have upgraded our joystick operation to be like our popular 634 model," he said.

"The Mustang 642 and 844 pilot-operated controls have one joystick for boom control, and another for frame levelling and attachment control.

"The previous model had three hydraulic controls, one for each of these functions."

The new tilt cylinder would increase productivity, Snorek said. The patented WPS would enable the safe use of a personnel work platform attached to the forks.