CONTROLS AND OPERATING PROCEDURES NBT30H-2 OPERATOR MANUAL
3-8
Published 03-18-2019 Control # 582-04
the maximum lifting capacities, and the information in Safety
Precautions, Section 2 of this manual. Carefully follow the
operating procedures outlined below and the information in
the load charts located in the crane cab.
Equipment Checks
Prior to placing the unit in operation, do a complete walk-
around visual inspection and look for structural damage,
loose components, leaks, or other conditions that require
immediate correction for safe operation. The following
inspection list is suggested. Check:
• for any unusual conditions such as pools of hydraulic
fluid or lubricating oil under the chassis, an outrigger
which may have crept down or up, signs of damage, or
improper maintenance.
• the tires are inflated to the proper pressure.
• the level of the hydraulic reservoir.
• the operation of the “stop” and horn circuits.
• for missing and loose bolts.
• for damaged structural members and welds.
• all rope guides and cable keepers.
• all sheaves for free turning.
• the hoist cable for kinks, broken strands or other
damage in accordance with instructions in Hoist Cable
Inspection and Maintenance, page 6-3.
• to see that the hydraulic hoses and fittings are in good
condition and show no signs of leaking. Repair damaged
or leaking hoses immediately.
• the RCL and anti-two-block system for proper operation.
• the electrical wiring connecting the various parts of the
system for physical damage.
NOTE: Consult the truck manufacturer’s manual for
vehicle checks.
Cold Weather Operation
The following recommendations are for operating National
Cranes in regions with ambient temperatures below -9°C
(15°F) which are considered arctic.
Cranes should have appropriate hydraulic oil, lubricants, and
other auxiliary items required for operation in sub-zero
temperatures. Operate individual crane functions to ensure
they are sufficiently warmed prior to performing a lift.
Operation of cranes at full rated capacities in temperatures
between -9°C (15°F) and -40°C (-40°F) or lower should be
accomplished only by competent operators who possess the
skill, experience, and dexterity to ensure smooth operation.
Shock loading shall be avoided.
Operation Below -40°C
For crane operation below -40°C, capacities shall be derated
3.67 percent of the rated load shown on the capacity charts
for each degree below -40°C.
Operation Below -40°F
For crane operation below -40°F, capacities shall be derated
2 percent of the rated load shown on the capacity charts for
each degree below -40°F.
CRANE WARM-UP PROCEDURES
The following procedures detail the actions that must be
taken to properly warm the different crane components
before operating the crane.
NOTE: For temperatures below -9°C (15°F) refer to arctic
lubricants and conditions in the Operator and
Service Manuals.
Before starting the crane, ensure the appropriate lubricants
are used to provide lubrication for the prevailing ambient
temperatures in which the crane will operate in (a list of
lubricants and their temperature ranges can be found in the
Lubrication section of your crane’s Operator Manual, by
contacting your local Manitowoc distributor, or by contacting
Manitowoc Crane Care directly).
Engine
NOTE: For National Crane engine warm-up procedures,
refer to chassis manufacturer’s manual.
Warm-up Procedures for All Temperature Ranges:
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.
CAUTION
Crane Damage Hazard!
Operating the crane with the incorrect lubricants and
fluids for the prevailing ambient temperature and/or failing
to adequately warm the crane prior to cold weather
operation can lead to a failure of a crane component or
system.
Always use Manitowoc recommended lubricants and
fluids for the prevailing ambient temperature and properly
start and warm the crane using the cold weather
procedures found in this Operator Manual and
supplement before operating the crane at full load.