Selecting the Right Boom Truck for Drywall Deliveries

Of course, choosing the right crane is only the first part of selecting a boom truck. The truck chassis also requires thought: the wrong specifications on the truck can affect the overall performance of the crane.

Here are some tips for choosing the right truck and crane combination for drywall, which must be delivered at great heights and sometimes great distances.

crane specifications

There was a time when articulating cranes were second only to rigid jib cranes. That is no longer the case, as companies in the building materials industry have come to understand the many benefits of articulating cranes. Because they are so widely used, this article looks at articulating cranes.

• If you are delivering materials to a site and require a long reach, make sure the crane has a boom with very little deflection. For example, you may need to deliver drywall or other materials on high floors or maneuver around objects. A typical articulating crane used for large loads of drywall has a 70-foot span. vertical height and 50 ft. horizontal range. The rated capacity of the crane at its full vertical reach is to be 7,500 lbs. or more. For its full horizontal reach, it should be rated at approximately 3,000 lbs. These qualifications ensure maximum accuracy in deliveries.
• Radio remote controls are vital for accurate and fast deliveries. Check the options on the remotes and rate them for smoothness of operation and different speeds. High-flow load-sensing hydraulics also increase delivery speed.
• Medium Drywall Cranes: Those with a maximum of 50 feet. Boom Length – Not always equipped with radio remote controls, but that feature is becoming more common as radio controls offer greater precision and safety. You may want to ask your dealer about the various controls options for smaller cranes.

truck specifications

If you’re hauling heavy loads like drywall, you should consider the strength of the truck’s chassis and additional safety features like hydraulic outriggers.

The main considerations in the chassis are the frame and axle capacities:

• The term “section modulus frame” refers to the relative strength of the frame in relation to its shape. Frames with a large section modulus will have the highest strength and the best ability to resist buckling under heavy loads. Secure a large section modulus for your drywall truck.
• A 24 ½ ft. truck bed. is generally recommended as it can carry 12ft. drywall lengths.
• Although there may be different regulations in your geographic area, the standard axle rating for large drywall trucks is 20,000 lbs. front axle and 46,000 lbs. rear tandem.
• Hydraulic stabilizers should be enough to help increase the rigidity of the truck bed.

If you are in any doubt about the compatibility of your truck and crane, ask your supplier for a computerized equipment matching service to ensure you select the correct combination to maximize performance, safety and payload.