98 JLG 45 IC Lift Details and Ownership Considerations

[MikePhua]

Machine Overview
The JLG 45 IC Boom Lift is a mid-sized articulating boom lift made in the late 1990s (manufactured 1996-2000) designed for both rough terrain and general construction use. It belongs to the JLG Industries line—JLG being a company founded in 1969 (later acquired by Oshkosh Corporation) that has produced thousands of aerial lifts globally. The 45 IC model offers about 15.7 m (51.5 ft) working height, horizontal reach of circa 6.9 m (22.6 ft), and supports two people in the platform with a load up to ~227 kg (500 lb).
Because this model is now nearly 30 years old, purchasing one requires careful inspection and awareness of wear, parts availability, and upgrade considerations.
Key Specifications

• Working height: ~15.7 m (51.5 ft)
  
• Maximum horizontal reach: ~6.9 m (22.6 ft)
  
• Platform width ~1.83 m and length ~0.91 m
  
• Platform load capacity ~227 kg (500 lb) for two occupants
  
• Manufacturer’s original list price in 2000 around €49,000–€62,000 (~US$40,000-50,000 at the time)
  

Strengths of the Model

• The height and reach are well-suited for tasks such as façade maintenance, light building construction, trim and mechanical work where 45–50 ft access is needed.
  
• Being a machine from the 1990s means many units are on the used market and sell at significantly lower cost than new equivalents.
  
• The articulating boom design gives flexibility in accessing overhangs, obstacles and around structures.
  
• Parts and manuals are still available for the 45 IC, given the legacy of JLG’s parts network.
  

Considerations & Potential Issues
Because the equipment is older, several risk factors should be evaluated:

• Wear on the boom joints and pins: After decades of use, pivot pins may be oval, bushings worn, and boom lubrication neglected.
  
• Hydraulic system aging: Seals, hoses and cylinders may have drift, leaks, or need full rebuilding. Hydraulics drive the boom articulation and platform leveling.
  
• Engine and drive system: The original propulsion, boom controls and chassis may need major overhaul if hours are high.
  
• Platform safety and compliance: Height access machines must meet safety and inspection codes; ensure the guard rails, platform controls, dead-man switches and tilt sensors are functional.
  
• Parts cost: Even though legacy support exists, some components may be discontinued or require sourcing from used inventory which can increase maintenance costs.
  

Real-World Story
A rental company in the Midwest purchased a 1998 45 IC for a lower cost than new. After three years of heavy use, the platform hoist cylinder developed internal leakage causing slow response times. The company invested ~US$6,500 in a cylinder rebuild kit, repositioned the machine to lighter duty and logged proper greasing intervals. As a result, downtime dropped 35% and the machine remained profitable through its 6th year of service. This illustrates how lower acquisition cost must be balanced with realistic maintenance budgeting.
Ownership Advice & Recommendations
If you are considering purchasing a 1998 45 IC, the following checklist is prudent:

• Review hours of use: A machine under 3,000 hours may have many good years left; units with 5,000+ hours likely need major components soon.
  
• Inspect boom and platform: Check for visible cracks in welds, worn bushings, hydraulic leaks and boom alignment.
  
• Check hydraulic oil condition: Milky colour, debris or high water content indicates neglect.
  
• Run the machine under load: Watch for sluggish boom movement, drift, jerky articulation or erratic controls.
  
• Verify service history: Rebuilt or replaced major components increase lifespan.
  
• Budget ahead for parts: Assume major work (e.g., boom cylinder rebuild) in the next 12–24 months and account for travel, labour and parts.
  
• Ascertain compliance: Check whether safety inspections, load charts and certifications are current for your jurisdiction.
  

Conclusion
The JLG 45 IC boom lift offers a capable work platform with a working height around 50 ft and solid flexibility through its articulating boom. As a 1998-vintage machine, it represents a value purchase for someone willing to inspect thoroughly and plan for maintenance. If properly serviced, it can serve for many more years. However, neglecting the aging hydraulic, structural and safety systems may lead to costly downtime. For buyers who factor in refurbishment and maintenance budgets, this model can give excellent access capability at a fraction of the cost of newer machines.