Two new Kato 20 tonne CR200Rf cranes have been added to the fleet at Bay of Plenty‘s McLeod Cranes.

Managing director Scott McLeod says there is significant demand for cranes this size, and their two new machines were sent straight to work as soon as they arrived from Japan.

“One is lifting frames, trusses and building materials for the building sector in Tauranga, with the other working on geothermal power station shuts and associated maintenance work. They‘re so busy we haven‘t had time to get them sign written yet.”

Kato‘s new generation City Range 200Rf model includes standard two-position 3000kg searcher hooks.

“The searcher hook is a brilliant addition which has significant benefits, particularly inside industrial sites, where it gives us the ability to reach into tight confines. The hydraulic luffing fly jib is another great feature. We‘re already finding opportunities where that particular set up is helpful,” says McLeod.

The extra reach on the super boom of the CR200Rf, compared with the firm‘s old 20 tonne crane, has been another plus. McLeod says his operators have also commented on the cranes‘ ‘clever smarts‘, with the well-positioned cameras, and reversing and forwards direction sensors, which monitor all the blind spots.

The CR200Rf has a completely redesigned operators‘ cab, with a greater glazed area, improved information displays and comfort features.

The firm‘s new cranes have both been modified slightly for New Zealand conditions, with wide configuration tyres installed by Titan Equipment, to replace the cranes‘ factory standard narrow configuration.

McLeod says the firm‘s longstanding relationship with Titan Equipment goes back to when McLeod Cranes was established 22 years ago and bought its first crane, a Kato 30 tonner. He says the after sales support and back up from both Kato and Titan Equipment has been excellent.

“As well as bringing the machine in, the Kato team flew over to train our operators. The more we know about the machines, the more we can upskill our people. This increases the capability of both the crane, and the operator.”

Pictured with one of the new cranes is Shoki Uehara, Kato Works, Japan, and Scott McLeod, McLeod Cranes.