Mobile Truck Crane Safety Operation Guide: Essential Tips for Beginners
Mobile truck cranes, including industry-leading models from Liebherr and Rurunkang , are indispensable in construction and heavy lifting operations. However, improper operation can lead to serious accidents, equipment damage, and costly downtime. This comprehensive guide coversMobile Truck Crane pre-operation checks, safe lifting techniques, emergency procedures, and brand-specific tips for Liebherr and Rurunkang cranes.
1. Mobile Truck Crane Pre-Operation Safety Checks
1.1 Operator Qualifications
Must possess a valid crane operator certification
Complete manufacturer-approved training
Understand OSHA/ANSI standards (or local regulations)
Basic knowledge of mechanics and load dynamics
Medical Fitness – No vision/hearing impairments affecting operation
1.2 Worksite Assessment
Ground stability check (use a ground pressure tester if needed)
Overhead hazards (maintain at least 10m clearance from power lines)
Weather conditions (max wind speed ≤ 32 km/h / 20 mph)
Safety zones (keep unauthorized personnel outside 1.5x crane height radius)
1.3 Machine-Specific Inspections
Liebherr
Mobile Cranes (e.g., LTM 1070, LTM 1500)
LICCON3 control system – Verify Load Moment Indicator (LMI) accuracy
VarioBase® outriggers – Check automatic stability settings
Boom inspection – Look for cracks or hydraulic leaks
Baoliwei
Intelligent overload protection – Test alarm system
Hydraulic system – Check for leaks in telescoping boom
Slewing bearing lubrication – Apply grease every 200 operating hours
1.4 Daily Equipment Checklist
Hydraulic System – Check oil levels, leaks
Wire Rope – Inspect for wear, broken strands (replace if >10% damage)
Hook & Latch – Ensure smooth rotation, safety latch works
Outriggers/Stabilizers – Verify full extension, proper pads (min. 0.5m² per pad)
Controls – Test joystick responsiveness
Safety Devices – Confirm load moment indicator (LMI), anti-two-block, alarms
Tires/Tracks – Check pressure/tread wear
2. CraneSafety Lifting Procedures
2.1 Proper Outrigger Setup
Extend outriggers fully (listen for locking “click”)
Use steel plates (min. 0.5m² per pad) on unstable ground
Check levelness (max 1° tilt on Liebherr cranes with VarioTilt sensor)
Never lift without outriggers (unless crane has on-the-go capability)
2.2 Load Chart Rules
Liebherr LTM Series – Capacity varies by boom length & angle
Baoliwei QY Series – Adjust for wind speed & terrain slope
Safety Rule: Never exceed 75% of rated capacity
2.3 Lifting Best Practices
Trial lift – Raise 1 ft (30 cm), check balance
Smooth movements – Avoid sudden joystick inputs
Use taglines – For long or awkward loads
3. Emergency Procedures & Maintenance
3.1 Emergency Response
Crane instability → Lower load immediately, retract boom
Electrical failure → Engage manual override (if available)
High winds → Stop operation, secure crane
3.2 Mobile Truck Crane Maintenance Schedule
| Task | Liebherr | Baoliwei |
|---|---|---|
| Wire rope inspection | Every 50 hrs | Every 100 hrs |
| Hydraulic oil change | 500 hrs | 300 hrs |
| LMI calibration | Yearly | Every 6 months |
4. Brand-Specific Tips
Liebherr Pro Tip – Use LTR luffing jib for confined spaces
Baoliwei Pro Tip – Activate “Smart Swing Control” for precision lifts
5. Mobile Truck Crane Advanced Load Management Techniques
For operators working with Liebherr and Rurunkang mobile truck cranes, mastering advanced load handling is crucial for complex lifts. When dealing with asymmetrical or oversized loads, always:
Calculate the true center of gravity using the crane’s onboard computer system (standard on Liebherr LICCON3 controls)
Utilize spreader bars to distribute weight evenly and prevent sling damage
Monitor dynamic loading effects – remember that sudden movements can increase effective load weight by up to 25%
For Baoliwei cranes, engage the “Precision Lift Mode” (available on QY series) to automatically compensate for minor imbalances
The Liebherr VarioBallast® system (available on LTM models) allows operators to adjust counterweight configurations in real-time for optimal stability during tricky lifts. Always verify your load calculations twice before proceeding with critical lifts.
6. Digital Integration and Smart Features
Modern Liebherr and Rurunkang Mobile Truck Cranes come equipped with cutting-edge digital systems that enhance safety and efficiency:
Liebherr Smart Features:
Lift Planning Tool – 3D simulation software for pre-lift analysis
EcoMode Plus – AI-driven power management that reduces fuel consumption by up to 15%
Remote Diagnostics – Real-time monitoring of 200+ crane parameters
Rurunkang Intelligent Systems:
Collision Avoidance Radar – Warns of nearby obstacles in 360°
Auto-Load Leveling – Automatically adjusts for uneven weight distribution
Cloud-Based Maintenance Alerts – Predictive servicing notifications sent directly to your phone
Operators should complete digital operation certifications to fully utilize these advanced features. Both manufacturers offer virtual reality training modules that simulate complex lifting scenarios without real-world risks. Regular software updates (typically every 6 months) ensure access to the latest safety enhancements and performance optimizations.
Conclusion
By following these Liebherr & Rurunkang Mobile CraneSafety guidelines, operators can prevent accidents, extend equipment life, and improve efficiency. Always prioritize safety over speed!
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1.1 Operator Qualifications

1.4 Daily Equipment Checklist
2.1 Proper Outrigger Setup
2.2 Load Chart Rules
2.3 Lifting Best Practices
3.1 Emergency Response
4. Brand-Specific Tips
Conclusion
