Link-Belt’s all-new 348 Series II, 300-ton lattice crawler crane is equipped with a new, upgraded Cummins engine. The Tier 4 Final, 320-horsepower Cummins QSL 9 engine is quiet, smooth running and efficient, according to Bob Weber, head of Columbus Equipment Company’s Lifting Division.
Buyers prefer a Cummins engine over the previous engine Link-Belt used because of Cummins’ superior service and support system in the field, he added.
The 348 also incorporates Link-Belt’s new HSL style cabin, which is outfitted for comfort and function. The ergonomic design, including a six-way adjustable seat, provides operators with more room and better visibility. For safety and productivity, the cab has high-resolution-camera views to the winch, rear, and non cab side swing of the machine. Monitors provide the operator with all lift info and let the operator set swing and other control parameters with audio and visual alarms and function kickouts.
A new attachment on the 348 Series II allows the heavy-duty boom tip section to remain in place when transitioning from conventional mode to a luffing configuration, which eliminates the need to change out tops.
While the 348 Series II is new, it shares boom extensions with the 348 HYLAB 5, so you can use the same heavy-duty, transition and long-range booms on both types of cranes.
“Ease of transportation, moving, disassembly, and loading out are all hallmarks of a Link-Belt,” Weber said. “Link-Belt puts a lot of thought into tear down, load out and hauling.” On the 348, that attention to detail resulted in carbody jacks and quick disconnects on the lower hydraulics for easy installation and removal of side frames. Additionally, the counterweight and lattice sections are configured for minimal overflow loads.
The crane also has a new counterweight removal system that has really impressed those who have attended previews of the 348 Series II.
Contact your Columbus Equipment Company sales representative to see if the 348 Series II is right for your lifting needs. Link-Belt began shipping the crane in the fourth quarter of 2019.