Link-Belt HC-218 Load Chart PDF + Specifications

The Link-Belt HC-218 is a 75-ton class lattice boom truck crane engineered for heavy-duty lifting applications across construction, industrial, and infrastructure sectors. Designed for both performance and transportability, this crane is mounted on an 8×4 truck-type carrier featuring a 236-inch wheelbase and a durable, welded steel box frame. The truck is equipped with tandem Shuler tubular-type front axles and Clark Planetary rear axles with planetary hubs, ensuring excellent traction and load distribution. The carrier rides on single front and dual rear tires, and incorporates Hendrickson equalizer beam suspension with bronze bushings for stability and durability.

Powering the HC-218 is a standard GM 8V-71N diesel engine, an 8-cylinder, 2-cycle unit producing 280 horsepower at 2,300 RPM with a torque rating of 760 ft-lbs at 1,200 RPM. An optional Cummins NTF-295 six-cylinder diesel engine is also available, delivering similar performance. The drivetrain includes a Fuller RTO-915 main transmission with 15 forward and 3 reverse gears, as well as a Fuller 2A92 auxiliary transmission, providing a wide range of speed options, from a high of 40.5 mph in 10th gear down to 0.7 mph in deep reduction for creeping operations. This setup enables the crane to navigate both job sites and highways effectively.

The HC-218’s lifting performance is centered around a high-strength, Hi-Lite tubular boom system. The base boom is 40 feet long and can be extended with modular sections available in 10-, 15-, 20-, 30-, and 40-foot lengths, reaching a maximum boom length of 210 feet. Boom construction includes alloy steel round chords with open throat rope sockets. Five root diameter sheaves are mounted on anti-friction bearings at the boom tip for efficient load handling. The crane also supports a 30-foot two-piece jib with 15-foot top and base sections, using 32-inch wide and 24-inch deep connections. Jib extensions in 20-foot lengths are also available, and jib stops are provided for 5°, 15°, or 25° offsets.

Boom raising and lowering are managed by a spur gear-driven boomhoist powered through planetary reduction and controlled via a two-shoe clutch. A Boomhoist Limiting Device protects against over-raising. Standard drum configurations include front and rear drums, with an optional third drum. The drums are equipped with external contracting band brakes and support a maximum line pull of 37,500 lbs at 165 feet per minute. Line speeds and pull ratings are based on wire rope strength and engine output, ensuring efficient material handling.

The hydraulic system is an open-circuit Speed-O-Matic type, operated by a Vickers pump rated at 5.9 gallons per minute at 1,200 RPM. This system includes a sump tank, filter, accumulator, and relief valve, delivering pressurized hydraulic fluid to all control points. A planetary boom lowering system and optional two-shoe boom lowering clutch provide precise control during load descent, supporting smooth and safe operations even under heavy load.

Operator comfort and safety are prioritized in the HC-218’s fully enclosed cab, which is mounted on the upper frame. The cab features a double rear-opening door, wide viewing windows with safety glass, a heater, defroster, and all essential instrumentation including gauges for engine oil, fuel, temperature, and air pressure. Controls are ergonomically laid out, and the cab includes a fire extinguisher and non-slip roof deck for safety.

For added lifting stability, the crane includes hydraulically operated front and rear outriggers with beam and jack cylinders, allowing independent control from either side of the carrier. The carrier’s total counterweight capacity is 21,000 lbs, mounted on two hydraulically controlled frustums that raise or lower the weight in seconds. A bumper counterweight of 10,800 lbs can be added when required.

Additional features include a boom angle indicator, telescoping jib stops, boom midpoint suspension pendants, boomhoist bridle, and boom folding equipment. A 12-foot jib mast supports the jib system, while deflector sheaves, peak sheaves, and jib load hoist ropes are mounted on anti-friction bearings for long service life. The crane uses standard “N”-type wire rope for all hoisting operations, with optional upgraded ropes for specific needs.

In summary, the Link-Belt HC-218 is a reliable and powerful crane built for demanding applications that require long reach, precise control, and high lifting capacities. With a flexible boom system, strong drivetrain, and advanced hydraulic controls, it remains a top choice for professionals who need dependable performance and mobility on the job.