The popularity of big bales was one thing - handling and storing them was another.

Generally, farmers overcame the handling problems by adapting their front-end loaders for the job, but they had limitations, particularly when it came to stacking and storing big bales.

The arrival of telehandlers as farming tool, with their greater lifting height ability and longer reach has seen sales skyrocket.

Today there are more than a dozen brands offering more the 50 models of telehandlers on the market.

This week's top buy is a New Holland LM 435A telehandler on offer by BMS Ag & Construction at Tanunda.

Dealership spokesman, David Ralston describes the unit as in good condition and ready to go.

"It was sold new by us in 2004 and has been well maintained and regularly serviced by our trained technicians," he said.

"The owner traded to buy the latest New Holland model."

Mr Ralston said the LM 435A telehandler had a maximum lift height of 6.8 metres, a maximum lift capacity of 3100 kilograms and had a forward reach of more than 4m.

"Power for the unit comes from a New Holland fuel efficient 71-kilowatt turbo-charged diesel engine.

"Drive is via a torque converter with hydraulic forward and reverse shuttle and a four-speed gearbox.

"The hydraulic system for the boom lift, tilt and telescope is controlled with a single Mono Ramp joystick.

"The hydraulic circuit is plumbed to the quick hitch to power a four-in-one bucket or bale clamp if they are required.

"Equipped with equal 24-inch tyres and with its rear-mounted engine the unit is ideally balanced and has a good ground clearance."

Mr Ralston said that at his dealership's asking price of $60,000 plus GST, the telehandler should sell quickly.

In addition to its New Holland franchise, BMS Ag & Construction also sells Morris tillage and seeding equipment, Hardi sprayers and Duncan tillage and seeding equipment

* Details: David Ralston 08 8563 2008 or 0418 844 505.