Tadano GR500EX

The Tadano GR-500EX is a 50-ton class rough terrain crane designed for performance, reliability, and ease of use in a wide range of job site conditions. Its main boom comprises four sections, hydraulically telescoping from 10.7 meters to 34.7 meters, constructed with round box design and supported by synchronized extension and retraction cables powered by a double-acting hydraulic cylinder. An optional two-stage swing-away jib provides additional reach of 8.8 or 15.2 meters, with offset angles of 5°, 25°, or 45° for greater flexibility.

The crane’s elevation system utilizes a double-acting hydraulic cylinder with automatic speed reduction and a slow stop function, providing a boom angle range from -0.8° to 81°, with a raising speed of 20° to 60° in just 27 seconds. The main hoist delivers a line speed of 136 m/min (4th layer) and a single line pull of 54.9 kN (5,600 kgf), paired with a 19 mm x 193 m no-spin rope. The auxiliary winch mirrors these performance specs with a slightly reduced rope length.

Power is provided by a 6.7-liter Cummins QSB6.7 EUROMOT Stage III B turbocharged engine, delivering 194 kW at 2,500 rpm with a peak torque of 843 Nm at 1,600 rpm. This engine is coupled with a fully automatic, electronically controlled transmission offering six forward and two reverse speeds, with selectable 4×2 and 4×4 drive configurations for terrain adaptability. The GR-500EX achieves a top speed of 25 km/h and an impressive gradeability of 69%.

Steering flexibility is a highlight, offering three modes: 2-wheel front, 4-wheel coordinated, and 4-wheel crab. The suspension system consists of semi-elliptic leaf springs with a hydraulic lockout mechanism for both axles. Braking is handled via an air-over-hydraulic disc system, complemented by a spring-applied emergency brake and an electro-pneumatic exhaust brake.

The superstructure cab is ergonomically designed for single-operator use with a steel frame, power sliding window, air conditioning, and a 3-way adjustable seat. Tadano’s AML-C automatic moment limiter monitors load conditions and displays parameters such as boom length, radius, load weight, hook height, and more, offering both audible and visual overload warnings.

The outrigger system is hydraulically operated in an H-type layout, capable of individual or simultaneous control from the cab. The four-stage outriggers can be set to various extension widths—minimum of 2.48 m to a maximum of 7.0 m—allowing safe and stable lifting even in tight spaces.

The crane’s gross vehicle weight is approximately 33,420 kg, distributed nearly evenly across its front and rear axles. The GR-500EX supports “on rubber” operations up to 26.7 meters boom length with rated lifting capacities, including creep mode for limited-distance traveling with load.

With integrated telematics (HELLO-NET), eco-mode fuel saving, positive control systems, and superior visibility and accessibility features, the GR-500EX exemplifies Tadano’s commitment to efficiency, operator safety, and site adaptability.