Liebherr MK 63

The Liebherr MK 63 was introduced as one of the earlier models in Liebherr’s MK mobile construction crane range and quickly established itself as a practical solution for projects requiring rapid deployment and tower-crane-style working characteristics on a road-going chassis. Positioned below the larger MK 88, the MK 63 focuses on compact dimensions, low transport weight, and ease of handling while still delivering solid lifting performance for its class. With a permissible total weight of approximately 36 tonnes, the crane is mounted on a three-axle carrier, making it suitable for regions with stricter axle-load regulations and for jobs involving frequent site changes.

The crane is equipped with a three-section lattice jib with a maximum length of 36.0 metres. In horizontal configuration, it can handle loads of up to 1,800 kg at full radius, while at shorter radii it achieves a maximum lifting capacity of 8,000 kg. A shorter jib configuration of 26.5 metres allows higher capacities, up to approximately 2,850 kg at the jib head. The jib can be set at working angles of 0°, 15°, 30°, and 45°, providing flexibility in hook height and outreach. At steeper jib angles, the MK 63 reaches hook heights of around 48 metres, making it suitable for mid-rise residential and commercial construction. The jib’s very tight and high assembly curve allows erection in restricted spaces with minimal rear clearance, a defining characteristic of the MK series.

The telescopic lattice tower supports fast, fully automatic erection, which can be performed by a single operator at the push of a button. This feature significantly reduces setup time and labor requirements compared to conventional tower cranes. The crane’s slewing system is frequency-controlled, offering stepless rotation speeds of up to approximately 1.1 rpm, combined with electronic wind load monitoring and automatic load sway damping for smooth and precise handling. The hoist mechanism is also frequency-controlled, delivering lifting speeds of up to 75 m/min and incorporating fine positioning capabilities for accurate load placement. Trolley travel along the jib reaches speeds of up to 70 m/min, supporting efficient material movement across the working radius.

Power for crane operations is provided by an onboard diesel generator rated at around 40 kVA, allowing independent operation without reliance on external site power, while external power connection is also possible when required. An optional elevating operator’s cab is available, giving the crane operator the ability to adjust cab height for optimal visibility of the load and work area, further enhancing safety and productivity on congested sites.

The MK 63 carrier is powered by a Liebherr D846 A7 four-cylinder diesel engine producing approximately 240 kW (326 hp), compliant with EU Stage IIIA / EPA Tier 3 emission standards. Power is transmitted via a ZF AS-TRONIC 12-speed automated gearbox. The standard drive configuration is 6×4, with an optional 6×6 arrangement available. Hydropneumatic suspension on all axles provides automatic leveling and improved ride comfort, while active rear-axle steering with multiple steering programs ensures excellent maneuverability in tight urban environments. Maximum road speed is around 80 km/h, enabling efficient travel between sites.

Overall, the Liebherr MK 63 is best described as a highly agile mobile construction crane that combines the speed and flexibility of a mobile crane with the precise load handling of a tower crane. Its compact size, relatively low transport weight, and fully automatic erection system make it particularly well suited for city-center projects, refurbishment work, and sites where space, setup time, and logistics are critical factors. The specifications and performance details above are based on the manufacturer’s technical documentation.