Getting the Most from Your JLG Lifts: Maintenance, Diagnostics, and Field Wisdom

[MikePhua]

Foundation of a Trusted Brand
JLG Industries, founded in 1969 by John Landis Grove, pioneered the aerial lift market—and today remains a leader in manufacturing aerial work platforms and telehandlers. Headquartered in Pennsylvania, JLG now operates under Oshkosh Corporation, with manufacturing sites across the U.S. and worldwide. Its machines are standard in construction, industrial maintenance, and facilities throughout the globe.
Understanding and Responding to Fault Codes
When a JLG aerial lift or telehandler displays an alert, the hidden headaches are often revealed through diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), which pinpoint specific electronic or hardware failures. Modern machines store DTCs for retrieval using:

• Machine analyzer readers (wired, Bluetooth, or remote)
  
• Ground display interfaces on newer models
  
• Telematics apps and fleet management platforms
  

These tools allow field technicians to identify faults precisely—far beyond the simplicity of warning lights.
Maintenance Rhythms: From Routine to Annual Inspections

• Every 150 operating hours or quarterly: A certified mechanic should perform detailed maintenance checks—especially following long idle periods or after buying used equipment .
  
• Annual inspection: Required under updated ANSI A92.22 standards—must be conducted within 13 months of the last annual check. This includes all frequent items plus safety bulletins and record verification .
  
• Platform-specific checks: Boom lifts, for example, must see regular inspection of controls, chassis, hydraulics, turntable, decals, and safety systems during annual reviews .
  

Battery Care: The Lifeblood of Electric Lifts
Electric scissor lifts rely on well-maintained batteries to stay operational. Best practices include:

• Cleaning battery banks and maintaining dryness to avoid surface discharge
  
• Periodic amp-draw and charge tests using a quality battery tester
  
• Early identification and replacement of weak batteries to avoid unplanned downtime—note that good care can double battery lifespan from 1 to 3 years .
  

Troubleshooting Real-World Scenarios
When lift functions lock or fail:

• A lift arm that won’t retract might be due to hydraulic override valve issues or misaligned leveling sensors—flushing hydraulic lines and reseating connections often restores function .
  
• If drive wheels don’t engage while other systems function, check hydraulic levels, filters, solenoids, and drive motor connections to restore mobility .
  

Accessing Expert Service and Genuine Parts

• JLG maintains a wide network of Authorized Service Providers trained via JLG University, offering warranty support, local parts distribution, mobile service, inspections, and preventive maintenance .
  
• Additional support is available at local repair centers equipped with diagnostic tools and manufacturer-approved components.
  

Field Story: A Response When Every Minute Counts
On a cold morning, a construction crew faced downtime when a boom lift refused to operate. The technician arrived with a handheld analyzer, retrieved a DTC pointing to a misfiring control module, and quickly cleared the error after reseating a connector. Within the hour, the lift was back at work—highlighting how DTC access and training can turn setbacks into simple fixes.

Key Takeaways at a Glance

• Understand and respond to fault codes with the right diagnostic tools.
  
• Follow scheduled maintenance to stay compliant and safe.
  
• Invest in diligent battery upkeep for electric models.
  
• Troubleshoot using both hydraulic and electrical system checks.
  
• Partner with trained service providers for efficient repairs and genuine parts.
  

If you’d like wiring guides, detailed hydraulic schematics, or tips on fleet management tools, just say the word—I’m here to help!