JLG Industries, an Oshkosh company, introduced the all-new SkyTrak 8042 telehandler, remastered to maintain the performance and reliability JLG said customers expect from the SkyTrak brand.

Building on the legacy of its predecessor, this next-generation model comes with innovative updates that include:

• Lightweight design

• Hydrostatic transmission

• Advanced control system

• Electric-over-hydraulic joystick

• Data at-a-glance

With the relaunch of the 8042, JLG continued the redesign of its popular SkyTrak telehandler line, which also includes the all-new 6034 and 6042 models introduced in 2023.

“JLG redeveloped this model from the ground up with enhanced technology and functionality to meet the needs of today’s job sites and zero sacrifices,” says John Boehme, senior product manager – telehandlers, JLG. “We listened closely to our customers’ most requested features and capabilities to improve the efficiency and serviceability of the 8042, without any compromises. This model is designed to increase productivity and boost overall job performance in pick-and-place applications, such as handling, loading, and unloading bulk materials on demanding residential, commercial, urban, and suburban job sites across America.”

Skytrak 8042 Gets Optimized Boom and Frame

Keeping job site efficiency in mind, the updated 8042 features a lightweight design with an optimized boom and frame structure to make transportation much easier.

Now two JLG 8042 telehandlers can fit on a single flatbed trailer. JLG said these updates did not compromise the machine’s key attributes; it still boasts the same maximum capacity and all-steel construction it’s known for.

The improved cab styling on the 8042 provides a larger LCD display and single-page load charts to deliver the data operators need.

The SkyTrak 8042 telehandler offers a maximum lift height of 42-feet 4-inches, a maximum reach of 29-feet 6-inches, and a 21,200-pound operating weight. The enclosed cab on this model is available with optional air conditioning for comfortable operation on hot or humid job sites.

JLG Reworked Functionality for New SkyTrak Telehandler

JLG said the hydrostatic transmission on the newly remodeled 8042 provides operators greater control and ease of operation while allowing for inching — the ability to run the boom at high speeds without shifting into neutral — for faster delivery of materials at height.

A multifunctional, electric-over-hydraulic joystick includes auxiliary hydraulic functions and attachment tilt capabilities.

Improved boom speed is complemented by auxiliary hydraulic connections on the side of the boom head for quick, efficient attachment changes.

More than a dozen different attachments are offered for the 8042, including a variety of carriages, forks, buckets, hooks, and trusses.

JLG Adds New Control System on Upgraded SkyTrak

A new, advanced control system on the upgraded 8042 provides more options like load stability indication (LSI), which senses forward load capacity and displays color-coded visuals to help operators work with higher confidence.

Seatbelt engagement and operator presence (SEOP) technology is also available, which combines a high visibility orange seatbelt and visual and audible alarms, as well as limiting machine functions, to enhance safe machine operation. 

Other optional essentials on this model include:

• Multi-reverse camera system displays left, right, and rear views from behind the machine during day or night operation on a single, tri-view monitor.

• Reverse sensing system that provides an audible in-cab alarm to alert the operator of any rear obstructions when driving in reverse.

• White noise back-up alarm that emits a directional alarm when driving in reverse

Remote diagnostics and richer telematics connectivity through JLG’s ClearSky Smart Fleet system improve data collection and streamline troubleshooting to help maximize uptime and increase return on investment (ROI).

Designed for Easier Serviceability & No DEF

The upgraded 8042 has a 74-hp, 2.9L Deutz diesel engine which does not require diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), reducing maintenance costs.

The single compensation and lift cylinder boom design relies on fewer components streamlining maintenance, while the top-mounted telescope cylinder makes the boom more accessible to maintain.

A 30% reduction in hydraulic hoses and connections results in fewer potential leak points for improved serviceability.