Manitowoc 4100W

The Manitowoc 4100W is a legendary crawler crane, first introduced in the early 1970s and widely regarded for its strength, adaptability, and enduring service life. Rated at 230 US tons, the 4100W gained prominence through its modular construction and lifting efficiency, and can be fitted with a ringer attachment to increase its capacity to 300 tons, making it one of the most versatile cranes of its generation.

Its popularity grew through the Series 1 and Series 2 models, which share key engineering traits with the later Manitowoc 888 crawler, reflecting a lineage of design continuity in Manitowoc’s heavy crawler fleet. With a base boom configuration designated as No. 22, the crane supports boom lengths up to 280 feet using additional inserts. It is also compatible with a range of front-end equipment including light tapered tops, No. 123, and No. 124 jibs, expanding both vertical and horizontal reach for job-specific needs.

Powering the crane are a series of engine options that cater to varying operational demands. The standard Cummins NTA-855 diesel engine delivers 333 hp at 2,000 RPM, while optional higher-output engines like the GM 12V-71N or Caterpillar D343-TA provide up to 364 hp, offering increased performance in heavy-duty conditions. With a 315-gallon fuel tank, the crane is capable of extended operation without frequent refueling.

The 4100W features a pendant-type rigging system using four 1⅜” diameter wire rope pendants, ensuring strong and secure load control. A universal gantry system with telescoping back hitch straps aids in streamlined setup and boom adjustments. The crane’s boom and hoist ropes are guided by precision-engineered roller guides and wire rope systems, enhancing smoothness and minimizing wear.

On the structural side, the crane includes extendible crawler assemblies, which can be adjusted from 18’7″ to 21’1″, increasing base width for enhanced stability under heavy loads. The self-removing counterweight system, designed in three segments, supports flexible configuration changes to suit various lifting scenarios.

Additional tools and options, such as dragline fairleads (hinged and revolving types) and a tower hold-back assembly, offer improved load handling and vertical boom control—particularly useful for applications like dragline or clamshell operations.

The Manitowoc 4100W remains a formidable machine decades after its debut. Its blend of mechanical strength, broad configuration capability, and support for multiple rigging systems makes it a favorite among operators tackling large infrastructure, power plant, and heavy industrial projects. Its longevity and versatility are a testament to Manitowoc’s engineering excellence in the crawler crane sector.