Grove GHC55 Load Chart PDF + Specifications

The Grove GHC55 was introduced by Manitowoc in 2020 as the second model in Grove’s growing telescopic crawler crane range, following the successful launch of the GHC30. The crane was developed to provide a substantial increase in lifting capacity while maintaining the transportability, versatility, and pick-and-carry capabilities that had proven popular in the smaller model. Positioned between compact utility cranes and larger crawler cranes, the GHC55 targeted contractors involved in infrastructure, foundation, utility, renewable energy, and industrial construction projects.

Building upon the success of the GHC30, the Grove GHC55 was designed as a larger-capacity telescopic crawler crane capable of handling heavier lifts while retaining the simplicity and mobility that define the GHC series. One of its primary advantages is transport efficiency, as the crane can be delivered to a jobsite in a single load thanks to its compact dimensions and relatively low gross vehicle weight. Once on site, the hydraulically extendable crawler frames and narrow transport width enable the machine to access confined working areas where larger crawler cranes may encounter difficulties.

The crane is equipped with a four-section, synchronized full-power telescopic boom that extends from 9.4 m to 30.4 m (30 ft 10 in to 99 ft 9 in). Because the boom is a full-power design, telescoping operations can be performed under load, increasing operational flexibility and reducing the need for frequent crane repositioning. The standard boom provides a maximum tip height of 32.6 m (107 ft). A one-piece lattice swingaway extension measuring 6.5 m (21 ft 4 in) is fitted as standard and can be offset at 0° or 40°, increasing maximum tip height to 39.3 m (129 ft). For projects requiring additional reach, an optional bi-fold extension can be installed in conjunction with the standard extension, creating a total extension length of 13.0 m (42 ft 8 in) and raising maximum tip height to 45.4 m (149 ft).

A major feature of the GHC55 is its ability to perform 100 percent pick-and-carry operations throughout its load chart. The crawler undercarriage allows the crane to travel with suspended loads while maintaining stability, and the machine is rated for operation on inclinations of up to 4 degrees. This capability makes it particularly valuable for utility, pipeline, and infrastructure projects where lifts must frequently be moved over uneven ground.

The upper structure utilizes a total counterweight package of 8,900 kg (19,621 lb) arranged in two sections. Boom elevation is accomplished through a double-acting hydraulic cylinder providing an operating range from -6° to 80°. The crane is equipped with an advanced rated capacity limiter and anti-two-block system that continuously monitors boom length, boom angle, radius, tip height, and load moment while providing audible and visual warnings to the operator.

Hoisting duties are handled by hydraulic winches driven through compact planetary gearboxes. The two-speed hoists provide a maximum first-layer line pull of 14,230 lb (6,455 kg), while permissible single-line pull reaches 11,000 lb (4,990 kg). Maximum single-line speed is 400 ft/min (122 m/min), providing rapid hook movement and efficient cycle times. The hoists utilize 16 mm rotation-resistant wire rope with a maximum rope length of 557 ft (170 m).

The swing system employs a compact planetary gearbox driven by a hydraulic motor. Continuous 360-degree rotation is provided through a sealed externally geared slewing ring. Swing speed is variable from 0 to 2.0 rpm, allowing precise load placement while maintaining productivity during repetitive lifting operations.

Power is supplied by a Cummins QSB 4.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine. For North American markets, the crane uses a Tier 4 Final compliant version producing 173 hp (129 kW) at 2,500 rpm and equipped with DOC and SCR emissions systems. Other markets receive a Tier 3 variant rated at 160 hp (119 kW) at 2,200 rpm. Fuel capacity is 95 gallons (360 L), while Tier 4 versions include a 10-gallon (38 L) DEF tank.

The hydraulic system utilizes a load-sensing LUDV design featuring a variable-displacement piston pump combined with a two-section gear pump. Maximum hydraulic output reaches 83.2 gpm (315 lpm) with operating pressures up to 4,786 psi (330 bar). Hydraulic oil capacity is 134 gallons (510 L).

The crawler undercarriage consists of hydraulically extendable side frames fitted with 900 mm (36 in) triple-bar maintenance-free track shoes. Operators can select among three working gauges: 2.60 m (8 ft 6 in), 3.30 m (10 ft 10 in), and 4.10 m (13 ft 6 in). Travel is provided through a two-speed hydrostatic drive system with skid steering and counter-rotation capability. Maximum travel speed reaches 2.49 km/h (1.55 mph), while theoretical gradeability is rated at 70 percent.

Operator comfort received significant attention during development. The cab incorporates an air-suspension heated seat with lumbar support, climate control, ergonomic dual-axis joystick controls, a sliding door, tinted safety glass, radio system, and a 15-degree hydraulic tilt mechanism that improves visibility when working with long boom configurations. A seven-inch display integrates rear-view, right-side, and hoist camera systems to improve operational awareness and jobsite safety.

The GHC55 can also be configured for specialized applications through optional equipment packages including auger systems for foundation work, pole claw preparation kits for utility construction, personnel baskets, radio remote controls, cold-weather packages rated to -40°C, and polyurethane track pads for operation on sensitive surfaces.