OPERATING CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES RT540E OPERATOR MANUAL
3-12 Published 01-15-2016, Control # 526-01
COLD WEATHER OPERATION
The following recommendations are for operating Grove
cranes in very low (i.e. freezing) temperatures.
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.
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.
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
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
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: Warm-up operation of 4-wheel drive transmission
engaged in 2-wheel drive only could cause
transmission damage.
Hoist
Performing a warm-up procedure is recommended at every
startup and is required at ambient temperatures below 4°C
(40°F).
Warm-up Procedures:
1. Without operating the hoist function, warm the hydraulic
oil (see Hydraulic Oil System, page 3-2).
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.
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.
Warm-up Procedures for Temperatures Below -7°C
(20°F)
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 one-
half 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.
Axles
Warm-up Procedures for Temperatures Below -35°C
(-30°F)
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: Warm-up operation of 4-wheel drive transmission
engaged in 2-wheel drive only could cause
transmission damage.
Hydraulic Oil System
Operating Limits and Warm-up Procedures
• 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
Reference Only