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Chengli Automobile Industry Park
What is the name of the equipment attached to a crane truck?
What Equipment is on a Crane Truck? A Simple Guide
Have you ever seen a big crane truck on the road? These big trucks help lift heavy things. Let’s learn about the equipment that makes these trucks so helpful.
Table of Contents
The Main Parts of a Crane Truck
A crane truck has many important parts that help it work. Here is a list of the main equipment:
- Vehicle mounted telescopic boom crane – This is the long arm that can stretch out to lift things up high
- Hydraulic outrigger stabilizer system – These are legs that come out from the sides to keep the truck from tipping over
- Fast-threading hook block – This is the hook at the end of the rope that picks things up
- Hydraulic ball (headache ball) – A heavy round weight that helps keep the cable stable
- Operator cab – Where the person sits to control the crane
- Remote load monitoring system – Helps the driver know how much weight is being lifted
- Slewing unit – Allows the crane to turn in a circle
- Boom extension attachment – Makes the arm longer for reaching higher places
Types of Cranes and Their Special Equipment
There are many kinds of crane trucks that do different jobs. Let’s look at some:
Mobile Hydraulic Cranes
These liquid hydraulic cranes move from place to place easily. They have:
- Telescopic main boom (36-151 feet extending sections)
- 7-ton rotating ball to help with stable lifting
- Four-way outriggers plus front stabilizer for safety
- Steel cab that can tilt for better seeing
| Crane Model | Lifting Capacity | Boom Length | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| National NTC45127-2 | 45 tons | 36-151 foot five-section | 7-ton headache ball, Allison automatic transmission |
| Manitex 35124C | 35 tons | 31-124 foot four-section | Four-way outriggers + front stabilizer |
| National NTC55L | 55 tons | Fixed 36-foot lattice jib | Four-sheave hook block system |
Crane Truck Equipment: A Visual Guide
Key Crane Truck Equipment
Vehicle-mounted Telescopic Boom Crane: The long, extending arm that lifts loads. Common lengths are 36-151 feet.
Hydraulic Outrigger Stabilizer System: Legs extending from truck’s sides for stability during operation.
Fast-threading Hook Block：The hook at the rope end, designed for quick attachment to loads (single/four-sheave).
Hydraulic Headache Ball: Heavy weight that stabilizes the cable and hook. (e.g. 7-ton rating).
Operator Cab: Where the crane operator controls all functions. Often equipped with safety monitoring systems.
Remote Load Monitoring System: Provides real-time data on load weight, stability, and operating conditions.
Crane Truck Statistics
Truck Mounted Tower Cranes
These have tall tower arms and are good for building tall things:
- Tilting steel cab with big windows
- Graphic RCL system to help the driver work safely
- Fixed angle lattice jib (0°, 15°, or 30°)
How These Parts Work Together
The crane truck equipment works as a team to lift heavy things. Here’s how:
- First, the truck drives to the work spot
- The outrigger stabilizer system extends to make the truck stable
- The operator uses controls to extend the boom
- The fast-threading hook block is attached to what needs to be lifted
- The hydraulic system powers the lifting
- The load monitoring system makes sure the weight is safe
Safety Equipment
Safety is very important for crane trucks. They have:
- Stability control system to prevent tipping
- Anti-collision system to avoid hitting things
- Dynamic balance sensors to keep loads level
- Load testing instruments to check safe weights
- Sway control system to stop swinging
Interesting Facts About Crane Trucks
Did you know?
- 90% of new cranes in 2025 have fast-threading technology
- External outriggers make accidents 67% less likely to happen
- New cranes with smart monitoring systems make up 65% of the market
- Diesel power is still used in 73% of crane trucks
- Modular kits make setting up cranes 40% faster
Types of Trucks Used for Cranes
Many kinds of trucks can be made into crane trucks. The most common are:
- Peterbilt 567 with Cummins X15 500 hp engine
- Kenworth T880 with steel 24-inch frame rails
- HINO L7 service trucks (standard or extended cab)
- Freightliner M2 106 for smaller cranes
How Much Do Crane Trucks Cost?
Crane trucks cost different amounts based on how big and strong they are:
- Small cranes (35 ton): Start at $264,950
- Medium cranes (45 ton): Around $350,000+
- Big custom cranes: $500,000 or more
Finding the Right Crane Truck
When looking for a mobile crane, think about:
- How much weight you need to lift
- How high you need to reach
- What kind of places you’ll be working
- If you need special attachments
- What safety features are most important
Taking Care of Your Crane Equipment
To keep your crane truck working well:
- Check the hydraulic system often
- Test the stability control system before big jobs
- Make sure the outriggers work right
- Keep the boom extension clean and working smooth
- Have the load monitoring system checked by experts
Learning to Use a Crane Truck
Using a crane truck takes special training. Operators need to:
- Get a Crane Operator License
- Learn about load testing
- Understand crane stability
- Know how to use the remote operation terminal
- Practice with virtual reality training modules
Now you know about the equipment on crane trucks! These amazing machines help build our schools, houses, and big buildings.
