09.06.2015

Merkel snaps up Grove 5250

German crane rental company Merkel Autokrane has taken delivery of one of the first units of Grove’s new five axle 250 tonne GMK5250L All Terrain crane.

The company saw the new crane during a visit to the manufacturer’s Willhelmshaven plant and was so impressed that it ordered its first unit there and then, writing out the purchase order on a paper napkin during dinner.

The GMK 5250L features a 70 metre, seven section main boom and a 12 to 21 metre hydraulic bi-fold swingaway, which can offset from five to 50 degrees. In addition to its lifting ability the single engine GMK5250L features a VIAB turbo clutch and integrated retarder, which is said to eliminate both fluid overheating and clutch burning.
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The new Grove GMK5250L All Terrain crane

Managing director Günther Merkel said: “Having seen the benefits of the Grove GMK5250L I wanted to seal the deal immediately, so I signed for the crane on a napkin at dinner. I was astonished at what it has been able to achieve with this new crane. It pushes the boundaries of what a five-axle crane can do, and even gives the larger six-axle cranes a run for their money in certain applications. For us, as a relatively small operation, easy manoeuvrability is the deciding factor. A five axle crane is also more beneficial for us as that is the maximum number of axles allowing a permanent transportation permit. We also liked the extreme narrow outrigger base, which is more compact than existing 220 tonne cranes on the market. We are thrilled with the new machine"

The GMK5250L is now the largest crane in Merkel’s fleet, just topping its 220 tonne five axle Tadano ATF 220G-5. Founded 10 years ago, Merkel runs a fleet of 11 cranes, alongside telehandlers, aerial lifts and transport equipment, from four locations, Schlüsselfeld, Bamberg, Burgkunstadt and Nürnberg.