Kato SR-250 Rough Terrain Crane: Performance, Features, and Real-World Insights

[MikePhua]

           

Overview
The Kato SR-250 (also known as KR-25H-V series) is a robust 25-ton rough terrain crane that excels in both mobility and lifting power. Designed for demanding job sites, it balances compact dimensions with versatile hydraulic performance for lifting in tight or uneven terrain.
Core Specifications

• Lifting Capacity:
  • 25 ton at 3.5 m radius
    
  • At 16.4 m radius: 19 t
    
  • At 23.5–23.45 m: ~12.5 t
    
  • At full 30.5 m boom extension: ~7–8 t
    
• Reach & Height:
  • Main boom: 9.35–30.5 m (4 telescoping sections)
    
  • Fly jib: 8.7–13.1 m, hydraulically offset 5°–60°
    
  • Max lift heights: Boom ~31.2 m, with jib up to ~44.8 m
    
• Mobility & Stability:
  • Gross vehicle weight: ~26,495 kg
    
  • Dimensions (L×W×H): ~11,565 × 2,620 × 3,475 mm
    
  • Drive: 4×2 road, switchable to 4×4 for rough terrain
    
  • Travel speed: ~49 km/h
    
  • 4-speed forward and reverse transmission
    
  • Outriggers extend to ~6.6 m for stabilization
    
• Performance & Hydraulics:
  • Engine: Mitsubishi 6D16T turbo-diesel, ~220 PS (at 2,800 rpm), torque ~65 kg·m (at 1,600 rpm)
    
  • Hydraulic reservoir: around 450 L
    
  • Main winch speeds: ~125 m/min (main), ~112 m/min (auxiliary); hook speeds ~16–17 m/min
    
  • Boom elevation: 0°–83° in ~40 s; Telescoping 9.5–30.5 m in ~93 s
    
  • Slew: Full 360° rotation, ~2.5–2.9 rpm
    
• Safety & Controls:
  Equipped with load charts for various radii, automatic brakes, overloaded prevention systems, outrigger locks, and Kato ACS (Automatic Crane System) for operational safety
  

Performance in Real Use
Early operators praised the SR-250’s compact footprint and power. It excels in confined sites thanks to 4×4 capability and a tight turning radius. Hydraulic controls are noted for steady, confident movements—even with heavy booms extended.
One anecdote highlights how, during a rainy construction project, the operator managed precise lifts at full jib extension despite soft ground—outrigger adjustment and the stable hydraulic system kept performance safe and reliable.
Maintenance & Operational Advice

• Hydraulic Health: Regularly inspect boom cylinder hoses and extension cables—these endure strain during full telescoping. Replace hoses when wear appears.
  
• Winch & Brake Checks: Clean and grease planetary brakes and monitors periodically to prevent sluggish winch response.
  
• Engine Care: Keep the cooling system clear—dusty environments demand routine cooler cleaning to prevent thermal stress on both engine and hydraulics.
  
• Outrigger Calibration: Test extension symmetry and sensor feedback via onboard load systems to avoid uneven loading scenarios.
  
• Load Chart Familiarity: Operators should study the lifting chart closely. The crane’s actual lifting capacity can halve as the boom extends fully—planning for boom angles, radii, and jib use is critical.
  

Summary at a Glance

• Lifting: 25 t at 3.5 m; ~8 t at 30.5 m
  
• Reach: Boom to 30.5 m, jib to ~44.8 m
  
• Engine Power: ~220 PS, Mitsubishi 6D16T
  
• Mobility: ~49 km/h, 4×4 selectable, 4-speed drive
  
• Hydraulics: 450 L oil, swift boom and slew speeds
  
• Safety: Equipped with comprehensive load and stability safeguards
  

Final Thoughts
The Kato SR-250 is a well-balanced, powerful rough-terrain crane offering strong lift capacity, compact dimensions, and sound engineering. Its robust hydraulic system, extendable boom/jib, and safety features make it a reliable choice on tough job sites. With proactive maintenance—especially on hydraulics, cooling, and brakes—it delivers dependable performance and durability for the long haul.