OPERATING CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
RT540E OPERATOR MANUAL
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
Warm-up Procedures:
The following recommendations are for operating Grove cranes in very low (i.e. freezing) temperatures.
1.
Without operating the hoist function, warm the hydraulic oil (see Hydraulic Oil System, page 3-2).
Use particular care to ensure that cranes being operated in very cold temperatures are operated and maintained in accordance with the procedures as provided by Manitowoc Crane Care. Cranes should have appropriate hydraulic oil, lubricants, and other auxiliary items required for operation in sub-zero temperatures. Individual crane functions should be operated to ensure they are sufficiently warmed prior to performing a lift.
2.
Once the hydraulic system is warm, operate the unloaded hoist, in both directions, at low speeds several times to prime all hydraulic lines with warm hydraulic oil and to circulate gear lubricant through the planetary gear sets.
Operation of cranes at full rated capacities in temperatures between 0°C and -40°C (+32°F and -40°F) or lower shall be accomplished only by competent operators who possess the skill, experience, and dexterity to ensure smooth operation. Shock loading shall be avoided. See Section 5 of this manual for more detailed information on operation of cranes down to -40°F.
Swing Drive and Turntable Bearing Warm-up Procedures for Temperatures Above -7°C (20°F) 1.
Setup the crane on fully extended outriggers, with the boom fully retracted and near maximum lift angle with no load applied.
2.
Rotate the superstructure at a speed of less than one RPM for at least one complete revolution in one direction, then rotate the superstructure at a speed of less than one RPM for at least one complete revolution in the opposite direction.
Operation Below -40°C (-40°F) For crane operation below -40°C (-40°F), capacities shall be derated 3.67% of the capacities shown on the load chart for each 1°C below -40°C (1.8°F below -40°F).
Warm-up Procedures for Temperatures Below -7°C (20°F)
Warm-up Procedures
1.
Ensure the boom is fully retracted and near maximum lift angle with no load applied.
2.
Rotate the superstructure at a speed of less than onehalf RPM for at least two complete revolutions in one direction, then rotate the superstructure at a speed of less than one-half RPM for at least two complete revolutions in the opposite direction.
1.
Engage the parking brake and apply the service brake.
2.
Shift the transmission into the highest gear and increase the engine RPM to 1500 for 15 seconds, then allow the engine RPM to return to idle.
3.
Repeat Step 2 until the temperature of the transmission sump reaches normal operating temperature.
Alternate Warm-up Procedures
Warm-up Procedures for Temperatures Below -35°C (-30°F)
1.
Setup crane on outriggers.
2.
Engage the transmission with 4-wheel drive selected (if equipped) and allow crane to run at idle until the temperature of the transmission sump reaches normal operating temperature.
NOTE:
Axles
Warm-up operation of 4-wheel drive transmission engaged in 2-wheel drive only could cause transmission damage.
1.
Setup the crane on outriggers.
2.
Engage the transmission (see Transmission, page 3-1) with 4-wheel drive selected (if equipped) and allow crane to run at idle until the temperature of the transmission sump reaches normal operating temperature.
NOTE:
Hoist Performing a warm-up procedure is recommended at every startup and is required at ambient temperatures below 4°C (40°F).
Hydraulic Oil System Operating Limits and Warm-up Procedures •
3-12
Warm-up operation of 4-wheel drive transmission engaged in 2-wheel drive only could cause transmission damage.
From 4°C to -10°C (40°F to 15°F): Crane operation without a load is allowed with medium engine RPM and medium function speed (joystick position) until the fluid
Published 01-15-2016, Control # 526-01
