Mecalac Adds Foldable Canopies to Its MCL Small Articulated Loader Line

Last year, Mecalac released its MCL compact loader line — adding its own spin to the growing small articulated loader category of machines. The line came in hot, boasting six models including the MCL2, MCL4, MCL4+, MCL6, MCL6+ and MCL8. Not only did we get to see these machines up close at the company’s media event in May 2023, we also recognized the line with our Innovative Iron Award. Now, these units are getting more versatility with MCL foldable canopies.

A Foldable Canopy

Although these loaders have been an impressive addition to the market, Mecalac recognized the need to adapt to certain applications. Enter: a foldable canopy. The company recently announced the option of a foldable-canopy version of the MCL2, MCL4, MCL6 and MCL8. Mecalac explained that the addition of the foldable-canopy MCL loaders offer the ideal solution in landscaping and especially agriculture applications. As mentioned in Mecalac’s press release, the quick-folding canopy will allow operators to leverage the loaders’ benefits in areas with limited overhead clearance. Farms are a particularly great spot to utilize this option since operators are completing work in areas such as livestock stalls and milk parlors.

From the Press Release

“Space can come at a premium in some work sites, but that doesn’t mean productivity must be sacrificed,” said Peter Bigwood, general manager for Mecalac North America. “Engineering compact loaders with a folding canopy gives our customers an efficient option to thrive in areas not previously reachable with similar equipment.”

Operators who select this option can easily fold down the canopy in seconds. They simply have to remove a pin on each column and push the roof back. The machine’s height is reduced by as much as a foot to less than 6.6 ft. Operators are then able to drive in areas with limited clearance, operate indoors and navigate under carports and garage doors.

A Quick Rundown on Mecalac MCL Line

• All the models in the MCL line feature M-Drive and speed control. Operators can control the machine’s rpm via hand throttle and speed via a foot pedal. This enables more precise and controlled operation of a wide variety of hydraulic attachments.
• When it comes to auxiliary hydraulics to the attachment, the MCL Series boasts 7.9 gpm of flow on the MCL2 and MCL4 models and 15.9 gpm flow on the MCL6 and MCL8.
• Smaller MCL units utilize a universal stand-on tool carrier attachment plate. The bigger units wield a universal skid-steer attachment system.
• Each MCL unit also has an option for auxiliary hydraulic lines out the rear of the machine. It also has 12V 3 pole plugs.
• Each machine has a 45-degree articulation that keeps the front wheels traveling in the same path as the rear wheels while driving. The MCL2 and 4 models have a 25-hp engine, with travel speeds up to 7 mph for the MCL2, and 12 mph for MCL4 and 4+. The remaining models come with a 49-hp engine and travel up to 12 mph with an option for travel speeds up to 19 mph.
• Each machine in the MCL Series offers easy transportability between jobsites. They feature a low transport weight. This ranges between 3,836 and 6,283 lbs and minimal width from 3 ft, 4 in. to 4 ft, 4 in., depending on tire selection.

Pam Kleineke is managing editor of Compact Equipment.