OPERATION 800D
2-8
Published 5-27-2018 Control # 039-06
1. Upon startup, allow the engine to idle for 3 to 5 minutes 
before operating with a load.
2. Cold Engine Startup: After allowing the engine to warm 
by idling it for 3 to 5 minutes, slowly increase the engine 
speed to provide adequate lubrication to the bearings 
and to allow the oil pressure to stabilize.
Transmission
NOTE: For National Crane transmission warm-up
procedures, refer to chassis manufacturer’s
manual.
Operating the transmission with a sump temperature below 
normal operating temperature is limited to:
• operating in the neutral gear or
• driving with an unloaded crane while not exceeding 
1500 engine RPM and not exceeding half throttle.
Alternate Warm-up Procedures for Truck Mount (TM/TMS) 
Cranes:
1. Setup the crane on outriggers.
2. Engage the transmission and allow crane to run at idle 
until the temperature of the transmission sump reaches 
normal operating temperature.
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 2-8).
2. After 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
NOTE: For National Crane axle warm-up procedures, refer
to chassis manufacturer’s manual.
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 
reaches at least 10°C (50°F). It is then recommended 
that all crane functions be cycled to remove cold fluid 
from all components and cylinders of the hydraulic 
system. If there is any unusual sound coming from the 
crane’s hydraulic pumps or motors, stop the operation 
and engine immediately and contact a National Crane 
distributor.
• From 10°C to 4°C (50°F to 40°F): Crane operation with
 
a load is allowed with medium engine RPM and medium 
function speed (joystick position) until the fluid reaches 
at least 10°C (50°F). 
• From 95°C to 10°C (200°F to 50°F): Crane operation 
with a load is allowed with no restrictions.
• Above 95°C (200°F): No crane operation is allowed. Let 
the crane’s hydraulic oil cool by running the engine at 
idle with no functions actuated. 
Pre-Operation Inspection and Calibration 
Verification
1. Check the electrical wiring connecting the various parts 
of the system for physical damage.
2. Check the anti-two-block switches and weights for free 
movement.
The following tests shall be performed with care to 
prevent damage to the machine or injury to personnel. 
Proper functioning of the system requires successful 
completion of these tests before operating the machine.
Fo
r 
Reference 
Only