Kato NK-160

The Kato NK-160 is a fully hydraulic truck crane designed to meet the needs of mid-capacity lifting operations with high efficiency and mobility. With a rated capacity of 16 tons, the crane’s robust three-section boom extends from 9.5 meters to 23.5 meters, using a synchronized “Fullpower” hydraulic system that ensures equal and smooth extension through a single control lever. The addition of a 7.2-meter fly jib allows the crane to reach greater heights and handle lifts in tighter working spaces, with an impressive boom derricking angle of -5° to 80°.

The crane structure is designed for smooth operation and quick cycle times. Boom elevation from minimum to maximum takes 47 seconds, and telescoping occurs at 0.18 m/sec for extension and 0.22 m/sec for retraction. Slewing is precise at a speed of 3.1 rpm. Both the main and auxiliary winches provide hoisting line speeds of 63 m/min, with the main hook hoisting at 10.5 m/min. This is powered by a hydraulic system built with a tandem gear-type pump, variable plunger hoist motor, and radial piston slewing motor, all controlled via a four-way double-acting valve system.

The NK-160 is mounted on a Mitsubishi K201L chassis paired with a Mitsubishi 6DC20A diesel engine delivering 200 PS at 2,500 rpm. The chassis design incorporates a 6×4 drive system, synchronized transmission, and single dry disc clutch. It provides a high road speed of 70 km/h and a turning radius of just 9.5 meters, making it suitable for both highway travel and urban work. The overall dimensions of the vehicle are 11,580 mm in length, 2,500 mm in width, and 3,450 mm in height, with a gross weight of 20,300 kg.

Stability is provided by rugged H-type outriggers with adjustable extensions on both sides. These provide a firm base even on uneven terrain or narrow sites. Safety is enhanced by optional equipment such as the MS-4 A.S.L.I. (Automatic Safety Load Indicator), which monitors allowable load and lifting conditions in real-time, cutting hydraulic power in overload situations. An optional weight indicator shows suspended load weights directly in the operator’s cab.

Additionally, the NK-160 features Freomatic winches with a common shaft for both main and auxiliary winches, ensuring consistent power lowering and gravity drop control. The winch system is responsive to the load and is designed for fail-safe operation and simple fingertip controls.

Overall, the NK-160 is a compact yet powerful solution ideal for general construction, utility maintenance, and industrial lifting where efficiency, reach, and safety are critical. Its high mobility and straightforward control layout make it a strong choice for operators looking for mid-size crane performance in a truck-mounted configuration.