Link-Belt HC-48

The Link-Belt HC-48 is a compact and highly versatile 15-ton lattice boom truck crane, designed to handle a range of light-to-medium lifting tasks. Its lattice boom structure provides a lightweight yet durable framework for precise load handling, making it well-suited for construction, utility maintenance, and industrial applications. The crane’s modular boom system offers flexibility, allowing for easy extensions and reconfigurations to meet various lifting needs.

The carrier of the HC-48, known as the Link-Belt Speeder, is built for strength and durability, featuring a reinforced wide-flanged beam main frame with ½-inch rolled plate and a center pin mounting plate that runs the length of the carrier. The front axle is a Rockwell Standard Model FD901 with 6×4 drive, and the rear axle is an American Coleman Model 9, offering a stable base for lifting operations. The crane rides on Dayton cast spoke wheels with Goodyear 10-ply rating military-style tires, available in different sizes, providing good traction and support even in rough terrain.

For power, the HC-48 offers two engine options:

1. Chrysler LH318 gasoline engine, an 8-cylinder engine delivering 187 maximum brake horsepower (hp) at 4,000 rpm, or
2. General Motors 3-53N diesel engine, a 3-cylinder engine providing 94 maximum brake hp at 2,800 rpm.

Both engine options ensure smooth performance, whether you require the raw power of gasoline or the efficiency and torque of a diesel engine. The crane is equipped with a spring-loaded single-plate dry clutch, and its transmission includes both a 5-speed forward, 1-speed reverse Chrysler LH318 transmission or a General Motors 5-speed forward transmission, offering flexibility in travel speeds and job site maneuverability.

The outriggers are full-width, double-box, and hydraulically actuated for secure stability during lifts. The crane includes sliding beams with high-strength alloy steel shoes, allowing the operator to secure the crane in place before lifting. The braking system consists of hydraulic disc brakes with accumulator boosters and digging brakes, providing responsive stopping power even under load.

The crane’s upper structure is designed for precision and durability, with an all-welded, heat-treated upper frame. The turntable uses a roller bearing system with standard six conical rollers to ensure smooth rotation, with optional eight rollers for added stability during lifting. The crane’s independent hydraulic swing allows for controlled slewing at 4.8 revolutions per minute, giving the operator precise control over load placement. The swing lock system engages the internal teeth of the swing gear to securely hold the boom in place during operations.

The boom system of the HC-48 is versatile, offering multiple configurations:

• The two-piece boom features a 25-foot total length, with an 11’6” upper section and a 13’6” lower section.
• Boom extensions are available in 5-, 10-, and 20-foot increments, allowing for custom boom lengths depending on the lifting requirements.

Additionally, an optional boom mast supports boom lengths over 50 feet. The crane comes equipped with a boom hoist limiting device to prevent over-hoisting and protect both the crane and the operator from accidents. Other boom features include a boom angle indicator, dual rigid boom backstops, and an optional boom folding system for easy transport.

The operator’s cab is designed for comfort and visibility, featuring hinged doors, safety glass windows, and sliding side panels for ventilation. The front windshield folds down, and the side windows slide open to improve operator awareness of surroundings. The cab includes a simple control layout with metered air-actuated clutches for all major crane functions, providing smooth and precise operation.

In summary, the Link-Belt HC-48 is a highly capable and adaptable 15-ton lattice boom truck crane. Its modular design, powerful engine options, advanced hydraulic systems, and operator-friendly cab make it ideal for a variety of lifting tasks in construction, utilities, and industrial applications. Whether performing precise load handling or transporting the crane to a new site, the HC-48 is built to deliver reliable performance and easy mobility.