14
Qualifications and Operating Practices
HC-7X NEXSTAR
1. Ensure the manual has been thoroughly read by all crane operating and maintenance personnel, and
supervisors.
2. Perform a routine inspection of the crane before operation each day, correcting any defects
immediately.
3. At the job site, position the vehicle so the crane can reach the load within the rated capacity (center
line of rotation to hoist hook).
4. Keep the vehicle as level as possible during operation.
At a 10% slope, all crane functions are limited to 50% speed. At a 15% slope, all
crane functions are disabled.
5. Allow the vehicle engine to warm up before operation.
6. For Auto Crane units using only electric operation:
A. Engage the emergency brake.
B. Leave the ignition on with the transmission in park (or neutral for manual transmissions).
C. Activate any crane power switches.
7. For Auto Crane units using electric and hydraulic operation:
A. Engage the emergency brake.
B. Place the transmission in park (automatic trans.) or neutral (manual trans.).
C.
Activate PTO (Power Take Off).
D.
Allow sufficient time for the hydraulic fluid to warm up.
E. Set the throttle control to the proper engine speed.
8. For all outrigger usage:
A. Always extend the outriggers from the vehicle to the ground before crane operation.
B.
Ensure they are firmly positioned on solid ground.
C. Stand clear of outriggers while being extended.
D. If a curb or other object prevents the outrigger from begin fully extended, shorten the bearing or
fulcrum point and reduce the maximum load accordingly.
E. If an outrigger will not reach the ground because of holes or grades, block up the outrigger pad to
provide level and firm support to the vehicle.
F. If working in soft ground, use wide pads under the outrigger feet to prevent sinking.
G. Always store the outriggers before transportation.
i. For Auto Crane units with Manual Outriggers:
1. Pull the lock pins to release the jackleg or drop down outrigger. Move to the outermost lock
position.
2. Ensure lock pins are reinstalled properly.
3.
Lower the Outrigger pad to firm ground and adjust the foot to remove slack.
ii. For Auto Crane units with Hydraulic Outriggers:
1. Shift the diverter valve to the Outrigger position.
2. Extend the Outriggers to their horizontal limit.
3. Extend the Outriggers vertically until they make solid contact with the ground with the
ground and the truck is approximately level side-to-side.
9. With the Outriggers properly positioned, return the diverter valve to the “Crane” position.
10. Remove the remote control from the cab or storage area. Power the remote control on. Detach the
hook from the hook stow.
11. The crane is now ready for operation.
NOTICE