A Japanese used crawler crane can be a strong choice for heavy construction, bridge work, plant projects, foundation work and large lifting operations where long boom reach, high lifting capacity and tracked mobility are required. However, a crawler crane is very different from a rough terrain crane. It usually needs more assembly, more transport planning and more space at the destination.
Before buying, define the load weight, working radius, required boom or jib configuration, ground conditions and transport limits. Then compare the exact crawler crane model and load chart. Used buyers should also inspect the boom sections, wire ropes, winches, slewing system, counterweights, crawler undercarriage, hydraulic system, safety systems and maintenance history. This guide explains how overseas buyers can judge whether a Japanese used crawler crane fits their project before purchase.
What Makes a Crawler Crane Different?
A crawler crane uses a tracked undercarriage instead of road tires.
Its crane upper structure normally rotates on top of the crawler base, while a lattice boom provides the lifting structure.
This design can offer:
- High lifting capacity
- Long boom configurations
- Good stability on prepared ground
- Low travel speed but strong site mobility
- Ability to move within a jobsite on tracks
Unlike many rough terrain cranes, larger crawler cranes are often transported in several sections and assembled near the jobsite.
When a Crawler Crane Is a Good Choice
Consider a crawler crane when your project needs:
- Heavy lifting
- Long boom reach
- Long-term crane work at one site
- Bridge construction
- Power plant or industrial construction
- Foundation or civil engineering work
- Large steel erection
- High-capacity lifting over difficult jobsite surfaces
A crawler crane can be particularly useful when frequent public-road travel is less important than lifting capacity and stability at the project site.
When a Rough Terrain Crane May Be More Practical
A crawler crane is not automatically better just because it can be larger.
A rough terrain crane may suit your work better when:
- The crane must move between jobsites frequently.
- Setup time needs to be shorter.
- The site is relatively compact.
- Maximum lifting capacity is moderate.
- Transporting multiple crane components would be inefficient.
The correct crane type depends on the project workflow, not only the maximum load.
Choose Capacity From the Actual Lift
The same rule used for other cranes applies here:
Do not choose a crawler crane from maximum tonnage alone.
You need to know:
- Load weight
- Working radius
- Required hook height
- Boom length
- Jib requirement
- Counterweight configuration
- Ground condition
Then check the exact manufacturer load chart.
Kobelco Crawler Cranes Show How Wide the Capacity Range Can Be
Kobelco's official crawler crane range includes many capacity classes.
Examples include:
| Current / Recent Example | Maximum Lifting Capacity | Maximum Boom Length |
|---|---|---|
| CKE600G | 60 t × 3.0 m | 51.8 m |
| CKE800G-2 | 80 t × 3.0 m | 54.9 m |
| CKE1100G-2 | 110 t × 3.6 m | 70.1 m |
| CKE1350G-2 | 150 t × 4.4 m | 76.2 m |
| CKE2500G-2 | 250 t × 4.6 m | 91.4 m |
Kobelco also offers larger crawler cranes beyond these classes.
Specifications vary by model year and configuration. Exact specifications should be confirmed for each individual machine.
A 60-Ton and a 250-Ton Crawler Crane Are Completely Different Purchases
The words “crawler crane” cover a very broad range.
A 60-ton class machine may fit medium civil engineering or lifting work.
A 250-ton class crane may require:
- More transport vehicles
- More counterweight
- Longer assembly time
- Larger setup area
- More specialized rigging
- Greater local technical support
Choose the smallest machine that can perform the real project lift correctly.
Operating Weight Is Not the Same as Transport Weight
This is especially important for crawler cranes.
For example, Kobelco lists the CKE800G-2 at approximately 75.7 t operating weight.
Its listed transport weight for the base machine configuration is 39.78 t.
The difference exists because crawler cranes can be transported with components such as counterweights, boom sections or other parts removed.
This is why buyers must ask:
- What components are included?
- What is the heaviest transport piece?
- Can the crawlers be removed?
- Can the counterweights be removed?
- How many trucks or trailers are required?
Self-Removal Systems Can Affect Transport Planning
Some crawler cranes are equipped with systems that help remove major components.
Kobelco, for example, lists counterweight and crawler self-removal devices on some CKE models.
Depending on the model, such systems may be standard or optional.
For overseas buyers, this can make assembly and transportation more practical.
However, confirm that:
- The system is actually installed.
- Required hydraulic equipment is complete.
- Removal accessories are included.
- The system operates correctly.
Inspect the Lattice Boom Carefully
A crawler crane often uses multiple lattice boom sections.
Inspect every section for:
- Bent chords
- Cracks
- Corrosion
- Weld repairs
- Damaged lattice members
- Pin-hole wear
- Missing pins
- Incorrect replacement parts
Damage to a lattice boom is structurally important.
Do not judge boom condition from paint alone.
Confirm the Complete Boom Set
A used crawler crane listing may show only the assembled machine.
Before purchase, confirm:
- Basic boom sections
- Intermediate boom sections
- Boom top
- Boom foot
- Pins
- Guy lines where applicable
- Jib components
- Storage or transport frames
A missing boom section can change the maximum available boom length.
Fixed Jib vs Luffing Jib
Crawler cranes may use different jib systems.
Fixed Jib
A fixed jib can extend reach and lifting height beyond the main boom.
Kobelco's CKE800G-2, for example, lists fixed-jib combinations such as 42.7 m boom + 18.3 m jib.
Luffing Jib
Larger crawler cranes may use luffing jib configurations.
This can provide greater height and more flexible working geometry on large projects.
Kobelco's larger CKE models can support very long luffing-boom and jib combinations depending on configuration.
Do not assume a used crane includes all optional jib systems.
Inspect Boom Pins and Connections
Lattice crane sections depend on structural pins and connection points.
Check:
- Pin wear
- Missing locking devices
- Deformation
- Cracks around pin holes
- Improvised repair parts
Every connection must match the correct crane configuration.
Inspect Main and Auxiliary Wire Ropes
Crawler cranes use wire ropes for hoisting and boom functions.
Inspect for:
- Broken wires
- Kinks
- Flattening
- Corrosion
- Birdcaging
- Abnormal wear
- Damage at termination points
Wire-rope diameter and length vary by model.
For example, Kobelco lists 22 mm wire rope on the CKE800G-2 and 26 mm on the CKE1100G-2.
Do not order replacement rope based only on crane capacity.
Inspect the Winches
Check:
- Main winch
- Auxiliary winch
- Boom hoist winch
- Drums
- Hydraulic motors
- Brakes
- Bearings
- Rope spooling
Operate each available winch under controlled conditions where practical.
Listen for abnormal noise and check for oil leakage.
Rated Line Pull Matters
Winch performance is not identical across crawler crane models.
For example, Kobelco lists a rated single-line pull of 78 kN on the CKE800G-2 and 108 kN on the CKE1100G-2.
This affects reeving and lifting configuration.
Use the correct manufacturer's crane specification rather than general assumptions.
Inspect the Crawler Undercarriage
The crawler system is one of the largest differences from a rough terrain crane.
Inspect:
- Track shoes
- Track links
- Pins and bushings
- Rollers
- Idlers
- Sprockets
- Track frames
- Travel motors
Heavy undercarriage wear can create major ownership cost.
Check Track Shoe Condition
Look for:
- Bent shoes
- Cracks
- Loose bolts
- Uneven wear
- Damaged edges
Track width also affects ground pressure and transport width.
Ground Pressure Is Important for Project Planning
Crawler cranes distribute weight over large track areas.
This helps mobility and stability on prepared construction ground.
However, crawler cranes can still create very high ground loads.
For example, Kobelco lists approximately 84.8 kPa ground pressure for the CKE800G-2 in its operating configuration.
Ground condition must therefore be reviewed by qualified project personnel.
Tracked mobility does not mean the crane can operate safely on any soil.
Inspect the Travel System
Crawler cranes travel slowly.
Kobelco lists travel speeds such as:
- CKE600G: 2.3 / 1.5 km/h
- CKE800G-2: 1.73 / 1.1 km/h
- CKE1100G-2: 1.4 / 1.0 km/h
This is appropriate for jobsite movement, not normal road transport.
During a used-machine test, check:
- Forward travel
- Reverse travel
- Left and right track response
- Straight travel
- Travel motors
- Final-drive leakage
Inspect the Slewing System
The upper crane structure rotates on the slewing bearing.
Review:
- Abnormal play
- Unusual noise
- Swing brake
- Hydraulic leakage
- Slewing bearing area
- Mounting bolts
Repeated heavy lifting can place substantial load on this system.
Inspect Counterweights Carefully
Counterweight configuration directly affects crawler crane lifting performance.
Confirm:
- Total number of counterweight pieces
- Correct weights
- Mounting hardware
- Condition
- Self-removal equipment if fitted
A crane may be mechanically complete but still be unsuitable if required counterweights are missing.
Do Not Assume the Crane Can Use Any Counterweight Combination
Only approved manufacturer configurations should be used.
Load charts depend on the correct counterweight and crane setup.
Do not use improvised ballast or substitute weights.
Inspect the Hydraulic System
Crawler cranes use hydraulic systems for many major functions.
Check:
- Main pumps
- Winch hydraulic motors
- Swing system
- Travel motors
- Control valves
- Hoses
- Oil leaks
Kobelco's CKE800G-2, for example, uses three variable-displacement main pumps and a maximum listed hydraulic pressure of 31.9 MPa.
The CKE1100G-2 uses four variable-displacement main pumps.
This shows why hydraulic specifications should be checked by exact model.
Check the Engine by Generation and Market
Crawler crane engines vary by model, generation and market.
Kobelco's recent CKE models use engines from manufacturers such as Hino and Isuzu depending on series.
For example:
- CKE800G-2: Hino J08E-VV
- CKE1100G-2: Hino J08E-VV
- CKE900G-4: Isuzu 6HK1
- CKE1350G-4: Isuzu 6UZ1
Do not assume an older used CKE crane has the same emissions system or engine as the current version.
Newer Engines May Require More Local Support
Kobelco's newer G-4 European models use EU Stage V compliant engines.
For overseas buyers, consider:
- Fuel quality
- Emissions-system support
- Diagnostic equipment
- Engine parts availability
- Local technician knowledge
A newer crane may offer later technology, but local support still matters.
Inspect Safety and Monitoring Systems
Modern crawler cranes can include load-moment monitoring, cameras, warning devices and other safety systems.
Exact systems differ by model and generation.
Check:
- Display operation
- Boom-angle information
- Radius indication
- Load indication
- Warning alarms
- Limit switches
- Cameras where fitted
Do not operate a crane with unexplained safety-system faults.
Operating Hours Need Context
Hours alone cannot show crawler crane condition.
Compare operating hours with:
- Winch condition
- Wire-rope condition
- Boom wear
- Undercarriage wear
- Swing-system wear
- Hydraulic condition
- Previous lifting work
- Maintenance information
A lower-hour crane that worked continuously near demanding lifting conditions may show different wear from a higher-hour crane used less intensively.
Previous Project Type Matters
| Previous Application | Areas to Check Closely |
|---|---|
| General construction | Boom, ropes, winches and undercarriage |
| Foundation work | Winches, hydraulics, undercarriage and structural wear |
| Bridge work | Boom configuration, winches, counterweights and transport history |
| Plant construction | Long boom or jib components, ropes and safety systems |
| Heavy lifting | Boom, slewing bearing, counterweight system and winches |
| Marine or coastal work | Corrosion, electrical system, boom and undercarriage |
If previous application cannot be confirmed, treat it as unknown.
Transport Planning Is a Major Part of the Purchase
A crawler crane may require several transport loads.
Possible separate components can include:
- Base machine
- Left crawler
- Right crawler
- Counterweights
- Boom sections
- Jib sections
- Hook blocks
- Accessories
The exact number of transport pieces depends on the crane.
Before purchase, ask for a complete component list.
Check the Heaviest Single Transport Piece
Total machine weight alone is not enough for shipping planning.
You also need the heaviest individual transport piece.
This affects:
- Truck selection
- Port handling
- Crane loading at the port
- Destination unloading
- Inland transport permits
Assembly at the Destination Must Be Planned
A crawler crane may arrive disassembled.
Before purchase, confirm how the machine will be assembled at the destination.
Consider:
- Assisting crane requirement
- Qualified technicians
- Assembly area
- Boom assembly procedure
- Counterweight installation
- Crawler installation where removed
- Inspection before operation
Some self-assembly features may reduce the amount of outside equipment required, but they do not remove the need for qualified procedures.
Container, RORO, Flat Rack or Breakbulk?
Crawler cranes are not all shipped in the same way.
Depending on size and disassembly, possible shipping arrangements may include:
- Container for smaller individual parts
- Flat rack
- RORO for suitable transportable components
- Breakbulk
The practical method depends on machine size, component dimensions, destination, port, shipping line and current shipping conditions.
Do not assume every crawler crane can be shipped by RORO simply because it can travel on tracks.
Who Should Consider a Japanese Used Crawler Crane?
A crawler crane may suit buyers who:
- Have a long-term heavy lifting project
- Need long lattice-boom reach
- Have sufficient assembly space
- Can manage multi-piece transport
- Have local crane technicians
- Can support crawler undercarriage and winch systems
- Have verified lifting requirements before purchase
Who May Be Better With Another Crane Type?
Another crane type may be more practical if:
- The machine changes jobsites every few days.
- Road mobility is very important.
- The lift requirement is moderate.
- Assembly space is unavailable.
- Local crawler-crane support is weak.
A Practical Used Crawler Crane Buying Checklist
- Lift Requirement: Confirm load, radius and lifting height.
- Model: Identify the exact manufacturer and full model designation.
- Load Chart: Confirm the actual crane can perform the lift.
- Boom: Verify all sections and inspect structural condition.
- Jib: Confirm required fixed or luffing-jib components.
- Boom Pins: Check pins, locking devices and connection wear.
- Wire Ropes: Inspect main, auxiliary and boom-hoist ropes.
- Winches: Test winches, brakes and rope spooling.
- Counterweights: Confirm complete approved counterweight set.
- Undercarriage: Inspect shoes, links, rollers, idlers and sprockets.
- Travel: Test both crawler drives.
- Slewing: Check swing operation and bearing condition.
- Hydraulics: Inspect pumps, motors, hoses and leaks.
- Engine: Confirm model, condition and emissions support.
- Safety Systems: Check monitoring and warning functions.
- Hours: Compare operating hours with actual component wear.
- History: Ask about previous lifting applications.
- Transport: Obtain transport weights and dimensions by component.
- Assembly: Plan destination assembly before purchase.
- Local Support: Confirm crane specialists, parts and inspection capability.
Buying a Japanese Used Crawler Crane
Japanese used machinery can include crawler cranes from Kobelco and other manufacturers across multiple lifting classes and generations.
You can check current Japanese used machinery available at EVERYCAR.jp. Inventory changes regularly, so a particular crawler crane manufacturer or model should not be assumed to remain available.
When making an inquiry, useful information includes the required lifting capacity, working radius, lifting height, preferred manufacturer or model, boom requirement, budget and destination.
For broader guidance on cranes, machine inspection, operating hours and shipping, visit the Japanese Used Machinery & Heavy Equipment Guide.
Choose a Crawler Crane Only After Planning the Entire Project
A crawler crane is not only a lifting machine. It is also a transport, assembly and support project.
First confirm the load, radius, height and boom configuration. Then check ground conditions and project duration.
After selecting the correct crane class, evaluate the used machine itself. Boom sections, winches, wire ropes, counterweights, crawler undercarriage, hydraulics, engine, safety systems and maintenance history all affect the real value.
Finally, plan how every component will leave Japan, arrive at the destination and be assembled before the first lift.
If you are looking for a Japanese used crawler crane, you can contact EVERY with your preferred manufacturer or model, required lifting capacity, working radius, boom requirement, budget and destination. Exact specifications, load charts, included components, transport requirements and condition should be confirmed for each individual crane before purchase.
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