Stellar Unveils Bale-Style Pull Handles and Other Innovations

Stellar Industries exhibited its new bale-style pull handles and other key innovations on its TMAX mechanic and service truck at NTEA Work Truck Week in Indianapolis, Indiana, last week. The new drawers and handles debuted at Utility Expo, but just now are starting production.

The company also displayed a range of other popular products, including the NXT18 hooklift, single-stage and two-stage reciprocating air compressors, Hybrid Power Source (HPS), and 880 multi-tank fuel trailer.

Bale-style Pull-handle Toolbox Systems

Designed with user convenience and versatility in mind, the bale-style pull-handle toolbox system features a unique dual-action handle design that allows users to activate the latches by grabbing the handle from either above or below.

“One of the things that was a demand from mechanics in the world is they've always got full hands. There are other pull-handle drawers out there, and we've had the most robust drawer out there bar none for a lot of reasons with the T handle,” explained Jonathan Jenkins, a regional sales manager for Stellar. “But we didn't solve every problem for the mechanic. What this drawer set does is it takes all those issues away.”

Stellar said the new easy-to-use design offers a more ergonomic and user-friendly experience, mostly by making it easier to open the drawers when hands are full.

“Mechanics want a couple of things.  They want to be able to come up with hands full, grab something, open a drawer, drop their stuff in. But they also want a drawer set that's super robust,” added Jenkins.

He said the drawers are all rated to hold 500 pounds and offered either in heavy-duty steel or heavy-duty aluminum. He also pointed out that Stellar sets itself apart from other tool drawer providers, which he said don’t have metal latches on the side to secure the drawer and allow the mechanic to be in and out of it 1,000 times a day without concerns about wearing it out.

Stellar also, at the show, launched its 30" Workbench Pull-Out Drawer System. Stellar said the tool drawer is ideal for storing chains, shovels, pry bars, sledgehammers, and more and features a heavy-duty T-handle with a lock.

Additional Enhancements to the TMAX Lineup

Updates to the Stellar TMAX lineup included new boom-tip lights on cranes, which offer a smaller profile to fit into tighter spaces and feature six LED lights for optimal brightness. Additionally, the TMAX’s new tailgate offers what the company called a cleaner aesthetic, while cabinet door enhancements featuring stronger hinges and thicker plates enable the doors to perform better in windy conditions, maintain rigidity as needed, and enhance the overall aesthetic.

“Our continuous dedication to listening to our customers and refining our product lines is evident in the enhancements we’ve made to the TMAX series and the other equipment we’re showcasing at Work Truck Week,” said Tim Worman, director of project management at Stellar. “At Stellar, we are always listening, always adapting, and continuously striving to improve even the finest details to make our customers’ jobs better.”

Other Stellar Products Displayed During Work Truck Week

TMAX 2-14 Mechanic Truck with New 12630 Service Crane

The TMAX 2-14 mechanic truck is a heavy-duty powerhouse built for demanding tasks, according to
Stellar. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the new 12630 hydraulic service crane, boasting a 12,000-lb capacity and 30' reach, the TMAX 2-14 ensures confident heavy lifting. Backed by Stellar's precision construction and CDTpro control system, according to the company it delivers performance for any job.

TMAX 1-11 Mechanic Truck with 7630 Service Crane

Engineered with precision and cutting-edge materials, Stellar said the TMAX 1-11 aluminum mechanic truck outperforms counterparts with increased payload capacity and superior fuel efficiency. Aluminum construction ensures durability and corrosion resistance. Designed to seamlessly accommodate Stellar hydraulic service cranes, such as the 7630 with 7,500-lb capacity and 30' reach, the company said it offers unmatched control with CDTpro Control System featuring range finder technology.

NXT18 Hooklift

Stellar said the NXT18 hooklift, featuring a 7.5" lost load height, offers efficiency. With an 18,000-lb capacity, it accommodates bodies ranging from 8' to 14' on 84" to 120" CA chassis. Enhancing versatility, its bolt-on body lock system allows for universal adjustment, catering to both inside and outside locks.

Air Compressor Lineup

Stellar said its single-stage and two-stage reciprocating air compressors empower professionals to tackle diverse tasks with ease. Whether it’s powering pneumatic tools, inflating tires, or running machinery, the company said its air compressors deliver the necessary strength and reliability to get the job done swiftly, effectively, and efficiently.

Hybrid Power Source

With an automotive-grade lithium-ion battery, Stellar’s Hybrid Power Source (HPS) delivers emission-free, low-voltage power and energy storage for hydraulic operations. The integrated dual hydraulic power unit ensures hours of quiet operation on a single charge without any loss of performance. Compliant with anti-idle regulations, it allows users to reduce their carbon footprint by operating hydraulic equipment independently of the chassis engine.

880 Multi-tank Fuel Trailer

Stellar 880 FuelMate multi-tank fuel trailers allow users to transition from dedicated fuel trucks to a cost-efficient and productivity-boosting solution, Stellar said. With its unique design hazmat license requirements are eliminated, enabling any operator to deliver fuel to equipment. In addition, compressor and toolbox integration is possible.