Manitowoc MLC300

Unveiled at CONEXPO 2014 in Las Vegas, the Manitowoc MLC300 marked a significant innovation in crawler crane technology with the introduction of its Variable Position Counterweight (VPC) system. Designed for the 300-ton (272 metric ton) class, the MLC300 boasts a maximum boom length of 96 meters, and a maximum luffing jib length of 108 meters, giving it outstanding vertical and horizontal reach. The VPC system adjusts the position of the counterweight automatically based on the lift, optimizing stability without requiring a large ground footprint.

The crane runs on a six-cylinder Cummins QSX15 Tier 4 Final engine, producing 470 hp (350 kW) at 1,800 rpm. Its robust undercarriage allows for a maximum travel speed of 1.6 km/h, and its high modularity makes it suitable for transport and rapid assembly at job sites. The VPC feature reduces matting requirements and setup time, as the counterweight remains within the machine’s footprint during lifts, increasing maneuverability in confined spaces.

In February 2017, Manitowoc announced a simplified version of the MLC300 equipped with a fixed-position counterweight system, eliminating the VPC and VPC-MAX packages from the standard design. This configuration retains the same structural and lifting capabilities but offers a more cost-effective option for clients who may not need the advanced counterweight mobility. The fixed system uses a stationary two-position counterweight tray, and the crane can be retrofitted with the VPC system later using an aftermarket upgrade kit available through Manitowoc Crane Care.

The MLC300’s luffing jib configurations are also compatible with the Wind Attachment and heavy-duty boom top, making it suitable for wind turbine erection and other high-load vertical applications. Its Cab2020 operator station includes a fully adjustable seat, climate control, and Manitowoc’s Crane Control System (CCS) for real-time monitoring and diagnostics.

All Erection & Crane Rental Corp. was the first customer to commit to the model, placing an order for ten MLC300 units during the 2014 CONEXPO. The MLC300’s versatility, efficient transport configuration, and advanced counterweight system solidify its place as a modern high-performance crawler crane for infrastructure, energy, and industrial construction projects.