Knuckle boom loader cranes are often mounted on the Mercedes Unimog and used for grab work. Due to the vehicle’s high ground clearance the total height from the ground to the top of the loader can present problems. Palfinger’s solution to this was shown at the UK launch of the new Mercedes Unimog last month. An U300 Unimog was fitted with a rear mounted Palfinger loader. An unusual mounting allows the crane to be folded forward to reduce the overall height, or ‘road to roof’ height to avoid overhead obstructions while on the move.
The Palfinger PK 7000B has three hydraulic extensions and is suitable for clam bucket operation. It tilts forward hydraulically, even with a bucket fitted. There is a valve to lock the tilting ram in the up/forward position to lock the crane so that it remains folded forward while travelling. The 7tm rated PK 7000B is similar to the latest PK 7501 model. It has four stabiliser legs, two on the crane and two on the Unimog, for extra stability. The telescopic boom reaches 8.7m where it lifts 630kg.
The crane can be dismounted by removing three pins and undoing two quick-release hydraulic couplings. A separate stand or lifting device is not needed for installation or removal as it rests on its two extended stabiliser legs and makes a three point brige with its boom.
UK distributor TH White has sold a 32tm Palfinger crane to be mounted on another of the new Unimogs with a special subframe.
The new Unimog, the first for 20 years, is designed to meet current and anticipated standards, and to offer higher payloads and greater driver comfort. It is also specifically designed for carrying implements like loader crane attachments.
