Crane FAQS

My crane or plant machine won’t start — what should I check first?

Before calling an engineer, check:

  • The emergency stop is released

  • The machine is in neutral

  • Battery isolator switch is turned on

  • Battery terminals are secure and free from visible corrosion

  • Fuel level is adequate

If the machine still won’t start, stop further attempts and contact a professional.

The crane is slow or sluggish — what could cause this?

Slow operation can often be caused by:

  • Low hydraulic oil level

  • Cold oil in low temperatures (allow warm-up time)

  • Blocked or dirty air filters

  • Machine operating under excessive load

Check fluid levels and allow the system to warm up. If performance doesn’t improve, an engineer should inspect the system.

I can see oil or hydraulic fluid under the machine — what should I do?

If you notice a leak:

  • Stop operating the equipment immediately

  • Identify whether the fluid is engine oil, hydraulic oil, or fuel

  • Check for loose filler caps or obvious damaged hoses (do not touch pressurised hoses)

Small drips may be caused by loose caps, but active leaks require professional repair.

The crane functions work intermittently — what might be wrong?

Intermittent operation is often linked to:

  • Low battery voltage

  • Loose electrical connections

  • Dirty or wet control switches

  • Hydraulic oil level dropping below minimum

Check battery condition and fluid levels. If the issue persists, further operation may be unsafe.

Warning lights are showing — can I clear them myself?

Some warning lights are triggered by:

  • Low oil or hydraulic fluid

  • Overheating due to blocked radiators

  • Sensors detecting overload or unsafe conditions

Always refer to the operator manual. Do not ignore warning lights. If a warning remains after basic checks, stop using the machine.

The crane won’t lift the rated load — what should I check?

Possible causes include:

  • Overload protection activating

  • Incorrect stabiliser setup

  • Low hydraulic pressure

  • Load positioned outside the safe working radius

Check stabilisers, load charts, and positioning. Never override safety systems.

The machine overheats — what can cause this?

Overheating may result from:

  • Low coolant levels

  • Blocked radiator fins (dust, debris, site dirt)

  • Prolonged operation under heavy load

Visually inspect radiators and allow the machine to cool. Do not remove caps while hot.

Controls feel stiff or unresponsive — what’s the likely reason?

This can be caused by:

  • Lack of lubrication on moving parts

  • Cold hydraulic oil

  • Dirt or debris around control linkages

Allow warm-up time and visually check for contamination. Do not force controls.

When should I stop using the machine and call an engineer immediately?

Stop operations immediately if you notice:

  • Active hydraulic or fuel leaks

  • Structural cracks or damage

  • Unusual noises (knocking, grinding, hissing)

  • Repeated warning alarms

  • Loss of lifting control

Continuing to operate faulty equipment can be dangerous and may invalidate insurance.

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