Manitowoc’s 165-ton MLC150-1 meets crane users’ desire for a maneuverable crawler with a strong load chart

Customers were looking for a compact, maneuverable crawler crane with a strong load chart that’s easy transport. Manitowoc answered the call, building on its popular MLC100-1 model with the 165-ton MLC150-1.

“A big component of ‘The Manitowoc Way’ is listening to exactly what our customers need and want in their cranes,” said Brennan Seeliger, product manager at Manitowoc Cranes, upon the MLC150-1’s introduction. “We had great feedback on the MLC100-1, so we based the new MLC150-1 on that model but boosted the capacity.”

The MLC150-1 features a maximum boom length of 256 feet. A fixed jib of 80 feet with a 29.5-ton capacity is available, and a 170-foot luffing jib with a capacity of 50.2 tons is another strong option.

Quicker assembly, easy transport

The new crane features quicker assembly than previous models. The boom butt mounted sheave enables self-assembly without the boom top. It has button-style rope termination, and a gantry-raised counterweight reduces components. The boom cap, jib butt and struts ship as a single package for fewer connections.

The MLC150-1 is also easier to transport. An increased hook height enables self-assembly with various trailer heights, and the crane is designed to be transported with minimal permitted loads.

Operators will particularly enjoy using Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS), which can be found across Manitowoc’s crane ranges and provides commonality in operation and maintenance. CCS offers a user-friendly interface, two full graphic displays and jog dial. Operators no longer need to stretch for controls to complete operations because everything is within reach. Additionally, the left side console rotates for improved egress inside the cab.

“Users will really like the upgrades to the cab in the MLC150-1,” Seeliger said. “While this crane has great capacity and reach for the 150-ton class, improved transport and erection efficiencies are always something users like to see.”

Quote on MLC150-1 from Kirby-Smith Machinery's Rickey Bailey, VP Crane Division: 

 “It’s great to see Manitowoc continue the MLC100-1 successes with the MLC150-1. Crane Control System, strong capacities and all of the other improvements in transport, assembly and performance. The MLC150-1 will impress all the way around.”