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The International 4900 Series and Its Role in Utility Fleets
The International 4900 6x4 was a staple in North American vocational fleets throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Built by Navistar International, the 4900 series was designed for medium-duty applications ranging from municipal service to utility work and crane transport. Its popularity stemmed from the robust DT466 engine, a 7.6-liter inline-six diesel known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Paired with Eaton Fuller manual transmissions—often 10- or 15-speed—the 4900 offered a balance of torque, simplicity, and longevity.
By the early 2000s, tens of thousands of 4900 units had been sold across North America. Many were outfitted with boom cranes, utility beds, or dump bodies, making them versatile platforms for public works departments and contractors alike.
Terminology Clarification
The unit in question features a National 600C crane mounted on a 4900 chassis. With a 17-ton lifting capacity, hydraulic outriggers, and a 20-foot flatbed, this setup is typical for utility contractors handling poles, transformers, or light structural steel. The wheelbase measures 272 inches, offering good stability but requiring wide turning radii.
The walking beam suspension, while excellent for load distribution, can transmit significant vibration to the crane structure. Over time, this can accelerate wear in boom pivot bushings, swing bearings, and outrigger mounts. Technicians often report cracked welds or fatigued chassis rails near the crane base—especially on older units with high cycle counts.
Inspection Priorities Before Purchase
Before bidding on a boom truck like this, a thorough inspection is essential. Key areas include:
Auction houses like Ritchie Bros often list similar boom trucks in the $20,000–$30,000 range. However, pricing depends heavily on condition, year, and crane functionality. If the crane is operational but worn, the truck may still be worth purchasing for its chassis alone. A functioning DT466 engine and Eaton Fuller transmission can fetch $5,000–$8,000 on the secondary market.
Buyers should consider:
In Saskatchewan, a contractor purchased a similar 4900 boom truck from a utility auction. The crane had minimal wear, but the swing bearing was loose. After investing $12,000 in repairs, the unit served reliably for five years in pole setting and light steel erection.
Conversely, a buyer in Texas acquired a unit with a cracked chassis near the crane mount. Repairs required frame reinforcement and re-certification, costing more than the truck’s purchase price. The lesson: always inspect the mounting area for fatigue and stress cracks.
Recommendations for Buyers and Operators
The International 4900 6x4 with a National 600C crane represents a capable and proven platform for utility and light lifting work. However, its value depends entirely on the condition of the crane components and structural integrity of the chassis. With proper inspection and realistic budgeting for repairs, buyers can secure a reliable workhorse—or avoid a costly mistake. The boom truck market rewards diligence, and understanding the interplay between truck and crane systems is key to making a smart investment.
The International 4900 6x4 was a staple in North American vocational fleets throughout the 1990s and early 2000s. Built by Navistar International, the 4900 series was designed for medium-duty applications ranging from municipal service to utility work and crane transport. Its popularity stemmed from the robust DT466 engine, a 7.6-liter inline-six diesel known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Paired with Eaton Fuller manual transmissions—often 10- or 15-speed—the 4900 offered a balance of torque, simplicity, and longevity.
By the early 2000s, tens of thousands of 4900 units had been sold across North America. Many were outfitted with boom cranes, utility beds, or dump bodies, making them versatile platforms for public works departments and contractors alike.
Terminology Clarification
- 6x4 Configuration: A drivetrain layout with six wheels, four of which are powered—typically the rear tandem axles.
- Walking Beam Suspension: A heavy-duty suspension system using pivoting beams to distribute load evenly across tandem axles.
- Boom Truck: A truck equipped with a hydraulic crane mounted behind the cab or on the bed, used for lifting and placing materials.
- LMI (Load Moment Indicator): A safety system that monitors crane load and alerts the operator when approaching tipping limits.
- Outriggers: Extendable supports that stabilize the truck during crane operation.
The unit in question features a National 600C crane mounted on a 4900 chassis. With a 17-ton lifting capacity, hydraulic outriggers, and a 20-foot flatbed, this setup is typical for utility contractors handling poles, transformers, or light structural steel. The wheelbase measures 272 inches, offering good stability but requiring wide turning radii.
The walking beam suspension, while excellent for load distribution, can transmit significant vibration to the crane structure. Over time, this can accelerate wear in boom pivot bushings, swing bearings, and outrigger mounts. Technicians often report cracked welds or fatigued chassis rails near the crane base—especially on older units with high cycle counts.
Inspection Priorities Before Purchase
Before bidding on a boom truck like this, a thorough inspection is essential. Key areas include:
- Outrigger boxes: Should be square and free of distortion. Warped boxes suggest past overloads or improper stabilization.
- Swing circle: Any noticeable play or grinding during rotation indicates bearing wear. Replacement can exceed $10,000.
- Boom wear pads: These nylon or composite pads guide the telescoping sections. Excessive slop or scoring means costly rebuilds.
- Hydraulic pressures: At idle, retracting the boom should generate 1800–2200 psi. Lower readings may indicate pump wear or internal leakage.
- LMI system: A functioning load moment indicator improves safety and may reduce insurance premiums. Replacements can cost $3,000–$4,000.
Auction houses like Ritchie Bros often list similar boom trucks in the $20,000–$30,000 range. However, pricing depends heavily on condition, year, and crane functionality. If the crane is operational but worn, the truck may still be worth purchasing for its chassis alone. A functioning DT466 engine and Eaton Fuller transmission can fetch $5,000–$8,000 on the secondary market.
Buyers should consider:
- Cost of crane refurbishment: Boom cylinders, hoses, and bushings can add $10,000–$15,000.
- Insurance and certification: Units must pass engineering inspection to be legally operated in lifting applications.
- Resale value: A clean, certified boom truck can command $40,000–$50,000 depending on region and demand.
In Saskatchewan, a contractor purchased a similar 4900 boom truck from a utility auction. The crane had minimal wear, but the swing bearing was loose. After investing $12,000 in repairs, the unit served reliably for five years in pole setting and light steel erection.
Conversely, a buyer in Texas acquired a unit with a cracked chassis near the crane mount. Repairs required frame reinforcement and re-certification, costing more than the truck’s purchase price. The lesson: always inspect the mounting area for fatigue and stress cracks.
Recommendations for Buyers and Operators
- Bring a hydraulic pressure gauge and voltmeter to inspect crane function.
- Check for signs of corrosion around outrigger welds and boom pivot points.
- Verify that the LMI system powers up and displays accurate readings.
- Inspect the cab and controls for signs of electrical degradation or water intrusion.
- If possible, operate the crane through full extension and rotation cycles.
The International 4900 6x4 with a National 600C crane represents a capable and proven platform for utility and light lifting work. However, its value depends entirely on the condition of the crane components and structural integrity of the chassis. With proper inspection and realistic budgeting for repairs, buyers can secure a reliable workhorse—or avoid a costly mistake. The boom truck market rewards diligence, and understanding the interplay between truck and crane systems is key to making a smart investment.
