Crane operators need to exercise caution whenever operating Rough Terrain cranes on uneven surfaces.
See below the new guidelines from Manitowoc for owners and operators of Grove Rough Terrain Cranes on traveling on slopes. Travel on slopes is permitted if the following conditions are met:
GENERAL CONDITIONS
1. Travel must be on an improved surface or on hard-packed dry earth. Operators are required to inspect the surface to ensure good tire adhesion.
2. All boom sections must be fully retracted.
3. The boom extension must be in the stowed position or removed.
4. The boom must be positioned over the front of the crane.
The boom angle limit is as follows:
- For fore/aft travel on grades not exceeding 15%, the maximum allowable boom angle is 20 deg. (Exception: For the RT9130E equipped with a 40,000 lb. Counterweight, the boom must be positioned at 0 deg.)
- For fore/aft travel on grades exceeding 15% the boom angle must be limited to horizontal (0 deg.)
- For side slope travel on grades not exceeding 10%, the maximum allowable boom angle is 20 deg. (Exception: For the RT9130E equipped with a 40,000 lb. Counterweight, the boom must be positioned at 0 deg.)
- For side slope travel on grades exceeding 10%, the boom angle must be limited to horizontal (0 deg.)
5. The swing brake and turntable lock pin must be engaged.
6. The hook block may be reeved over the boom nose and the overhaul ball may be reeved over the boom nose or auxiliary boom nose. Each must be secured to the tie down on the carrier to prevent swinging.
7. Tires must be inflated to the recommended pressure for pick and carry.
8. The hydraulic tank must be filled to the specified level and the fuel tank must be over half full.
9. No loads may be supported by the boom (i.e. no pick and carry loads) while traversing a slope.
10. All cribbing must be removed when traveling on slopes. If the customer has a specific non-factory addition that is to be considered, contact Manitowoc Product Support for further evaluation.
11. Avoid holes, rocks, extremely soft surfaces, and any other obstacles that might subject the crane to undue stresses and possible overturn.
12. The operator is to check for changing road conditions and engage the use of a ground person if deemed necessary.
The owner/lessee must take appropriate measures to ensure that all persons operating or working with the affected models are following Manitowoc’s recommendations. The operator of the crane assumes responsibility for determining the suitability of traveling on a slope.
To read further regarding Slope Limitations – Fore/Aft travel & Side slope travel, see the full guidelines here
Grove GRT9150E