The Snorkel TB80 telehandler instrument cluster provides critical alerts for safe operation. Understanding these indicators is key to preventing downtime and ensuring compliance with OSHA and ANSI standards.
Snorkel TB80 Warning Light Symbols
| Symbol | Name | Color | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Master Warning (Stop) | RED | A critical fault has occurred that demands immediate engine shutdown on the TB80. | Stop the machine safely and consult the fault code on the display. | |
| Master Caution | AMBER | The TB80’s system has detected a non-critical issue that should be checked before continuing heavy use. | Review the cluster for additional warning symbols and address when practical. | |
| Check Engine (MIL) | AMBER | The TB80’s engine electronic control unit has logged a diagnostic trouble code, often related to emissions or fuel system. | Have the engine diagnosed via the service tool as soon as possible. | |
| Engine Oil Pressure | RED | Engine lubrication pressure has dropped below safe operating level in your TB80, risking internal damage. | Stop the engine immediately and check oil level and filter. | |
| Battery / Charging | RED | The TB80’s alternator is not charging the battery, or system voltage is too low to power controls reliably. | Shut down the machine and test the alternator and battery connections. | |
| Coolant Temperature | RED | The TB80’s engine coolant has exceeded its maximum safe temperature, threatening overheating. | Stop the engine, allow it to cool, then inspect coolant level and radiator. | |
| Hydraulic System | AMBER | Hydraulic oil temperature or pressure is outside the normal range for the TB80’s lift/tilt circuits. | Check hydraulic oil level and look for leaks; reduce heavy operation until normalized. | |
| Parking Brake | AMBER | The TB80’s parking brake is engaged or there is a fault in the brake apply circuit. | Release parking brake before driving; if light stays, service the brake system. | |
| Seat Belt | AMBER | The operator’s seat belt is not fastened on this TB80, which disables certain safety interlocks. | Buckle the seat belt to enable all machine functions. | |
| Glow Plug / Preheat | AMBER | The TB80’s engine preheat cycle is active or there is a fault in the glow plug system. | Wait for the light to go out before starting in cold conditions. | |
| Low Fuel | AMBER | The TB80’s diesel fuel level is low, which may cause air ingestion in the injection system. | Refuel with clean diesel as soon as possible. | |
| High Beam | GREEN | The TB80’s high-beam headlights are turned on for improved visibility. | Dim when approaching other machines or personnel. | |
| Work Lights | GREEN | The auxiliary work lights on the TB80 are activated to illuminate the work area. | Turn off when not needed to conserve battery. | |
| Beacon / Rotating Light | GREEN | The TB80’s rotating beacon is flashing, indicating the machine is operational. | Ensure beacon is working before site operation. | |
| Swing / Slew Lock | AMBER | The TB80’s turntable swing lock is engaged, preventing rotation for transport or stability. | Disengage swing lock only when ready to rotate on level ground. | |
| Service / Hour Meter | AMBER | The TB80 has reached a scheduled service interval based on engine hours. | Perform preventive maintenance per the operation manual. | |
| Overload / Capacity | RED | The TB80’s load moment indicator senses that the rated capacity has been exceeded. | Lower and reduce load immediately to avoid tipping. | |
| Low Oil Level | AMBER | Engine oil level in the TB80 is below the add mark. | Add recommended oil to the proper level before restarting. |
18 symbols shown. Icons follow ISO 2575 dashboard standards; exact graphics vary by model year.
Most Important Warning Lights
Master Warning (Stop) with Overload
Common causes
- Lifting a load beyond the TB80's rated capacity chart
- Boom extended beyond safe working radius
- Machine on uneven ground without leveling
What to do
Immediately lower the load and retract the boom. Move to level ground and verify the load is within the TB80's capacity diagram.
Engine Overheating (Coolant Temp + Oil Pressure)
Common causes
- Low coolant level from leaks or incomplete refill
- Clogged radiator fins from debris on the TB80
- Faulty thermostat or water pump
What to do
Park the TB80, shut down engine, and let it cool. Clean radiator fins and top off coolant; if recurring, replace thermostat.
Hydraulic System Overheat
Common causes
- Prolonged high-demand operation (continuous lift/tilt cycles)
- Hydraulic oil level low or wrong viscosity
- Blocked hydraulic oil cooler
What to do
Allow the TB80 to idle in neutral to cool the hydraulic oil. Check and fill oil level, and clean the cooler fins.
Battery/Charging Failure
Common causes
- Alternator belt slipping or broken
- Corroded battery terminals
- Faulty alternator voltage regulator
What to do
Shut down the TB80 and tighten or replace the belt. Clean terminals and check charging voltage; replace alternator if output is low.
Engine Low Oil Pressure with Low Oil Level
Common causes
- Oil not changed per TB80 service schedule (too old/thick)
- Oil leak from drain plug or filter
- Internal engine wear causing excessive blow-by
What to do
Immediately stop the engine. Check oil level, add oil if safe, and inspect for leaks. If pressure remains low, have the engine inspected internally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the red Master Warning light mean on my TB80?
It means a critical fault has occurred that requires immediate engine shutdown. Refer to the cluster for the specific secondary warning (e.g., overload, oil pressure) and follow the recommended action.
The amber Hydraulic light stays on after start. Can I still operate?
You can operate at reduced duty cycles, but avoid continuous heavy lifting. Check hydraulic oil level and look for leaks. If the light flashes or turns red, stop and service the system.
How do I reset the service hour meter light?
The service light auto-resets after the scheduled maintenance is performed and the system is reset via the instrument panel. See your TB80 operator’s manual for the reset procedure using the hour meter button.
Why does the glow plug light come on when it’s warm?
On the TB80, the glow plug may cycle for a few seconds even in warm conditions to ensure clean starts. If it stays on longer than 10 seconds, the glow plug relay or controller may be faulty.
Can I disable the seat belt interlock if the switch is broken?
No, bypassing safety systems on the TB80 is illegal and dangerous. Replace the seat belt buckle assembly immediately to restore proper interlock functionality.
The overload light came on while carrying a load. What should I do?
Immediately lower the load to the ground and retract the boom. Recalculate the load weight and verify you are within the TB80’s capacity chart for the current boom angle and extension.