Reviving a 10-Ton Boom Truck: Field Evaluation, Cable Safety, and Operational Insights

[MikePhua]

Introduction: A Cabin Project Meets a Forgotten Crane
In the rugged terrain of Washington state, a cabin-building project led to the rediscovery of a 10-ton boom truck—an RO crane mounted on a GMC chassis powered by a Detroit Diesel 8.2L engine. Though aged and in need of attention, the machine showed promise. With some coaxing, it roared back to life, and its crane functions proved responsive. This article explores the practical evaluation, safety considerations, and operational quirks of this rediscovered rig, offering insights for anyone considering similar equipment revival.
Terminology Clarification

• Boom Truck: A truck-mounted crane used for lifting and placing materials, often in construction or utility work.
  
• Overhaul Ball: A weighted ball attached to the end of the crane cable, used to maintain tension and guide the hook.
  
• Jib: An extension of the main boom that increases reach but reduces lifting capacity.
  
• Clamp on Lifting Cable: A temporary or improper method of securing cable ends, considered unsafe in professional rigging.
  
• Frame Flex: The bending or twisting of a truck’s frame under load, especially noticeable in single-axle configurations.
  

Initial Assessment: Starting Up and Testing the Crane
After locating the boom truck, the team managed to start the engine and operate the crane. Despite its age, the crane responded well to controls. A two-bottom plow was lifted and suspended for an hour without hydraulic creep or leaks—an encouraging sign of system integrity.
However, several issues were noted:

• Brakes and Tires: Both required replacement before road use.
  
• Rusty Cable: The exposed portion of the lifting cable was corroded and terminated with a clamp—an unsafe practice.
  
• Jib Configuration: The jib was deemed unnecessary for the planned work and would be removed to avoid the 400 lb lifting capacity deduction.
  

Cable Safety: From Clamp to Proper Termination
The lifting cable’s condition raised immediate concerns. A clamp had been used to secure the end—a method frowned upon in professional rigging due to the risk of slippage and uneven load distribution. The team planned to cut off the rusty section and properly terminate the cable using industry-standard techniques such as swaged fittings or wedge sockets.
This decision reflects a broader safety culture in crane operations, where cable integrity is paramount. Improper terminations have led to catastrophic failures in the past, including high-profile construction accidents.
Operational Quirks: Frame Flex and Swing Setup
During testing, the operator noted significant frame flex—common in single-axle boom trucks under load. This flex can affect stability and control, especially during swinging operations. To mitigate this, the team planned to set up jobs as “swing shows,” minimizing boom movement and focusing on vertical lifts.
This approach mirrors best practices in light-duty crane operations, where careful setup and load planning reduce stress on the chassis and improve safety.
Engine Considerations: The Detroit 8.2L Debate
The truck’s Detroit Diesel 8.2L engine sparked mixed feelings. While it performed adequately during testing, some operators expressed skepticism about its long-term reliability. The 8.2L, often nicknamed the “Fuel Pincher,” was designed for fuel efficiency but earned a reputation for being underpowered in heavy-duty applications.
Despite this, the engine did what was asked of it—starting reliably and powering the crane without issue. For semi-retired or occasional use, it may prove sufficient.
Field Anecdote: A Retirement Project with Purpose
The operator, approaching semi-retirement, plans to handle most of the crane work for his friend’s cabin builds. The boom truck offers a low-cost, functional solution for lifting materials in remote areas. Its revival is not just mechanical—it’s personal, blending utility with the satisfaction of breathing life into a forgotten machine.
This story echoes countless rural equipment revivals, where resourcefulness and experience turn old iron into valuable tools.
Best Practices for Boom Truck Revival

• Inspect Hydraulic Systems: Look for leaks, creep, and responsiveness under load.
  
• Replace Unsafe Cable Terminations: Use certified fittings and follow rigging standards.
  
• Evaluate Frame Integrity: Monitor flex and adjust lifting strategies accordingly.
  
• Test Brake and Tire Condition: Ensure roadworthiness before transport.
  
• Document Load Tests: Record lifting performance to guide future operations.
  

Conclusion: From Rust to Reliability
The rediscovered boom truck may not be glamorous, but it’s a testament to practical engineering and field wisdom. With proper maintenance, safety upgrades, and thoughtful operation, it can serve reliably in its new role. In the hands of a seasoned operator, even a 10-ton relic can become a cornerstone of construction—lifting not just materials, but the spirit of hands-on problem solving.