Link-Belt HT-300

The Link-Belt HT-300 is a 30-ton class hydraulic truck crane that was engineered for both job site performance and efficient transport between sites. It integrates a three-section fully hydraulic telescoping boom with robust load-handling capabilities and compact structural design for optimized weight distribution and mobility. The boom is made of quenched and tempered alloy steel, employing a twin-cylinder extend-retract system exclusive to Link-Belt Speeder. This unique arrangement ensures the boom extends and retracts in sequence—starting with the tip section and followed by the center—eliminating the need for multiple control levers and reducing complexity during operation.

The main boom offers a reach of 33 to 96 feet (10.06 – 29.26 m), with an optional 21-foot (6.4 m) manual extension bringing the maximum tip height to over 117 feet. A 25-foot (7.62 m) fabricated jib with single-sheave is also available for added lifting versatility. The boom head consists of two deflector sheaves and three load sheaves, each 14.5 inches in pitch diameter, mounted on anti-friction bearings for reduced maintenance.

Hoisting operations are powered by dual wire rope drums and a two-speed power hoisting system. Operators can select from high or low speed via a swing-lever-mounted solenoid button, which reroutes oil to double line speed (and halves pull). In addition, Link-Belt’s unique load lowering design permits free-fall capability using mechanical drum brakes, independently of hydraulic motor power. The front and rear drums hold 763 feet (232.6 m) of 5/8-inch Type “N” wire rope and are powered by a hydraulic gear motor routed through a Link-Belt designed speed reducer.

The HT-300 is powered by a single GM 6-71N diesel engine, delivering 238 hp at 2,100 rpm, with peak torque of 649 ft-lbs at 1,400 rpm. This single engine drives all machine functions including travel, hoist, swing, boom, and outrigger operations. The drivetrain features a 13-speed Fuller main transmission paired with a 2-speed auxiliary (Fuller #2A-92) transmission, offering 26 forward and 4 reverse speeds. Travel speeds range from 0.87 mph (1.4 km/h) in job-site creep mode to 46 mph (74 km/h) for highway travel.

The carrier is built on a custom box-type high-strength alloy steel frame, rated at 100,000 psi (689.5 MPa) minimum yield strength. The 8×4 configuration includes tandem axles both front and rear, with the rear axles featuring double planetary reduction. Power steering is integrated with Ross #7E-71 hydraulic steering, and all wheels are equipped with Maxi #3675 air service and emergency brakes.

The HT-300’s hydraulic outriggers are box-welded and pin-connected, equipped with 22-inch square aluminum floats for fast setup and stripdown. Hydraulic lines are fitted with quick-disconnects, and the outrigger beams are controlled from the upper cab.

A key operational feature is the hydraulically raised/lowered counterweight (3,850 lbs or 1,746 kg), which can be detached quickly using just two pins, enhancing job-to-job transportability. The counterweight bracket is mounted to the carrier deck with a hydraulic cylinder lowering system operated from the cab, completing removal or installation in just 10 seconds.

The operator’s cab is offset and fully enclosed, with a contoured vinyl-upholstered bucket seat, floor-mounted controls, and full instrumentation including oil/air pressure gauges, throttle control, fuel level, tachometer, voltmeter, and ammeter. The electrical system includes a 12-volt battery and alternator, sealed-beam lighting, emergency flashers, and back-up lights.

In summary, the Link-Belt HT-300 stands out as a highly mobile and operator-friendly 30-ton crane, optimized for fast setup, intuitive hydraulic functions, and precision load handling. Its single-engine configuration, robust carrier design, and unique load hoist system make it an effective choice for general construction, utility work, and job sites requiring frequent crane relocation.