Tadano TR-500E

The Tadano TR-500E represents a powerful and mobile solution for medium-duty lifting, tailored for rough terrain operation. Rated at 50 US tons (approximately 45 metric tons), this model is built for reliable lifting with a balance of reach, control, and mobility under challenging conditions.

The crane is equipped with a 4-section hydraulically telescoping boom constructed from high-tensile hexagonal box sections. It offers a boom length range from 35.1 feet to 112 feet (10.7 m to 34.1 m), with synchronized extension across all sections for smooth and stable operation. The boom is supported by two easily removable wear pads and rope guards that reduce wear during operation.

For increased lifting height, the TR-500E includes a two-stage swing-away jib that extends from 32.2 ft to 61.7 ft (9.8 m to 18.8 m), giving a total max tip height of over 170 feet with optional configurations. The jib can offset to 5°, 30°, or 30° offset with stowable configuration, enhancing lifting versatility at high angles or for rooftop placements.

The crane’s lifting operations are driven by a main hoist and auxiliary hoist, both powered by hydraulic axial piston motors connected through planetary gear reducers. The winches feature dual-speed operation and are capable of up to 125 ft/min (38 m/min) on the 4th layer. A pendant-controlled over-winding cut-out system and auxiliary lifting sheave enhance safety during lifting.

Swing operations are executed via a hydraulic piston motor with full-circle swing on a 360° bearing at 2.2 rpm, controlled manually or with an optional swing lock. Boom elevation is achieved by dual double-acting hydraulic cylinders offering a boom angle from -3° to 80°, ensuring flexibility in confined work areas.

The TR-500E runs on a Mitsubishi 6D22 diesel engine, a 6-cylinder, direct injection unit that delivers 145 HP (108 kW) at 2200 rpm and 422 lb-ft (57.2 kg·m) of torque. The crane uses a torque converter transmission with 6 forward and 6 reverse speeds and a 3-speed transfer case for High, Low, and 4-wheel drive. Full-time 4-wheel steering, plus 2-wheel front and crab steering modes, give it superb maneuverability in tight jobsites.

Mobility is supported by a high-tensile steel welded mono-box frame and rigid front axle, with the rear axle mounted on hydraulic lockout cylinders. Suspension includes rubber pads and the brake system is fully air-over-hydraulic, with spring-applied brakes acting at all four wheels for secure stops.

The operator’s cab features a wide view, full instrumentation including boom angle, load moment, fuel, and engine gauges, and an adjustable reclining seat with seatbelt. It includes heating and optional air conditioning for extended operator comfort.

Fuel capacity sits at 79.2 gallons (300 liters) and the hydraulic system features dual variable piston pumps and gear pumps with a 195-gallon (740 L) reservoir. The TR-500E comes standard with numerous safety features including:

Load moment indicator with buzzer and lamp warning

Hook height indicator

Drum rotation indicator

Boom angle and length indicators

Level gauges and safety latch hooks

Hook options include 1-sheave (15 ton), 2-sheave (22/26 ton), and 3-sheave (32.6 ton) blocks. Wire ropes are 19 mm (3/4 in), 6×Fi(29) construction, with a breaking strength of 7.3 tons (66.8 kN).

The maximum travel speed is 21.8 mph (35 km/h), making the TR-500E mobile enough for quick repositioning on large job sites. It weighs approximately 94,600 lbs (42,912 kg) fully outfitted with 112 ft boom and auxiliary sheave, distributed at 48,651 lbs front and 45,949 lbs rear axle load.

Overall, the Tadano TR-500E provides high-lift power, flexibility, and off-road ruggedness in a single compact rough terrain package. Whether on construction sites, utility projects, or oil and gas fields, it performs consistently with class-leading reliability and smooth operation.