Sixty US tons on one truck: Tadano reworks the top of its telescopic boom crawler range
Tadano has replaced the 55-ton GTC-550 with the 60-US ton GTC-600-2 telescopic boom crawler crane, keeping single-truck transport while adding a closed-loop hydrostatic swing system and out-of-level charts to 4 degrees.
What changes over the GTC-550
The GTC-600-2 is the newest member of Tadano’s GTC series of telescopic boom crawler cranes and takes over from the 55-ton GTC-550. Capacity rises to 60 US tons. The crane carries a 113.8 ft full-power boom with a 28.9 ft extension and a 49.9 ft jib, together with Tadano’s OPTI-WIDTH variable track positioning and lifting capacities at up to 4 degrees out of level with full pick-and-carry.
The most significant mechanical change is the swing system. A new closed-loop hydrostatic arrangement replaces the previous set-up, which Tadano says gives operators smoother and more precise control — a meaningful difference on the confined, uneven ground where telescopic crawlers usually earn their keep.
Carried over from the GTC-550 are jib capacities to 2.5 degrees out of level, dual hook operation using an auxiliary nose sheave or the jib, winches with 16 mm rope, remote control for all rigging operations as standard, and gradeability of 85 per cent.
Load charts and work zones
The crane uses the full functionality of Tadano’s AML-C rated capacity indicator. Load charts are provided for 0.5, 1.5, 2.5 and 4 degrees of slope, with the system switching automatically between them according to the crane’s attitude on site. Operators can also set work-zone limits for swing angle, height and radius, with soft stops as the crane approaches each boundary.
Power comes from a Cummins QSB6.7 diesel meeting Tier 4f and Euromot Stage IV, rated 260 hp (194 kW) at 2,200 rpm. An optional heavy counterweight package of 28,200 lb (12,791 kg) is available for improved performance at longer radii.
Where Tadano expects it to work
“Our latest addition to the GTC Series provides incredible value for its users. It’s the only 60-ton capacity teleboom crawler that is transported on one truck, plus it has incredible job versatility. The GTC-600-2 will excel in core applications like bridge/heavy civil, power transmission and foundation construction, while being appealing for lift crane-based markets as well.”
— Reagan Bull, COO, Tadano Mantis Corporation
Single-truck transport remains the commercial argument. For contractors moving between bridge, transmission-line and foundation jobs, the difference between one load and two is a recurring cost rather than a one-off.
“Customers have come to expect and rely on our proven and reliable systems, including efficiency, ease of use, reliability, and rapid deployment of machines. The new GTC-600-2 will exceed expectations with its versatility, outstanding features and manufacturer support.”
— Allen Kadow, product manager for telescopic and lattice boom crawler cranes, Tadano
Source: Tadano — Photos: Tadano
Crane facts
- Model: Tadano GTC-600-2 telescopic boom crawler
- Capacity: 60 US tons (replaces 55-ton GTC-550)
- Main boom: 113.8 ft, full power
- Extension / jib: 28.9 ft / 49.9 ft
- Out of level: charts at 0.5°, 1.5°, 2.5° and 4°, with auto switching
- Gradeability: 85%
- Engine: Cummins QSB6.7, 260 hp (194 kW) at 2,200 rpm, Tier 4f / Stage IV
- Optional counterweight: 28,200 lb (12,791 kg)
- Transport: one truck