American 9535 Question

[MikePhua]

Background of American Crane Company
American Hoist and Derrick Company, later known simply as American Crane, was one of the most recognizable names in the crawler crane industry throughout much of the twentieth century. Founded in St. Paul, Minnesota, the company specialized in lattice boom crawler cranes, draglines, and other heavy lifting equipment. Its cranes were widely used in infrastructure projects such as bridges, dams, and skyscrapers, with production peaking in the post-war construction boom. By the 1980s, American was competing head-to-head with rivals like Manitowoc and Lima, producing models ranging from modest 50-ton machines to giants exceeding 500 tons in lifting capacity.
Introduction to the American 9535
The American 9535 was a crawler crane built for mid-to-heavy lifting duties. This machine was part of the 9000 series, which was designed in the late 1970s and produced into the 1980s. With a nominal lifting capacity of around 150 tons, the 9535 fit into the needs of contractors working in industrial plants, bridge construction, and marine environments. It was often equipped with a lattice boom, which could be configured to reach heights well over 200 feet depending on sections used.
Technical Characteristics
Key features of the American 9535 included:

• Lifting capacity in the 130 to 150 ton range depending on configuration
  
• Lattice boom design allowing modular extensions
  
• Diesel engine in the 400–500 horsepower class
  
• Mechanical clutches and drum controls, with some later models incorporating more advanced hydraulic assists
  
• Travel speeds of approximately 1 mph typical of lattice crawler cranes
  
• Counterweight options allowing customized stability for different lifting scenarios
  

The machine was rugged, but it lacked some of the more modern electro-hydraulic conveniences of cranes introduced in the 1990s and later.
Common Challenges with Older Models
Operators and owners of older American cranes like the 9535 often report a set of recurring issues:

• Parts availability: With the company having gone through mergers and the brand effectively disappearing, replacement parts are harder to source. Items such as clutches, gears, and hydraulic pumps may need to be refurbished or custom-fabricated.
  
• Electrical systems: Original wiring harnesses often degrade, leading to intermittent faults.
  
• Engine wear: Many cranes of this age still run on original diesel engines, which may have over 20,000 service hours. Major overhauls can be required.
  
• Operator adaptation: Unlike newer cranes with joystick controls and computerized load indicators, older models rely on manual feel and skill. Operators must be trained specifically for these machines.
  

Market and Economic Perspective
The American 9535 was never produced in the same high numbers as Manitowoc’s flagship models, but several hundred units were built. These machines sold widely in the U.S. and were exported to markets in South America, the Middle East, and Asia. While sales peaked in the 1980s, by the 2000s most of the 9535 fleet had been relegated to secondary markets or niche contractors who valued their ruggedness and lower purchase price compared to modern equipment.
In the used market, prices vary drastically. A well-maintained unit can sell in the $70,000 to $120,000 range, while neglected machines often go for scrap value. The cost of transport, assembly, and inspection also adds to ownership considerations.
Solutions for Owners Today
For contractors or collectors who wish to keep an American 9535 operational, a few strategies help:

• Networking with legacy parts suppliers: Some companies still specialize in supporting older American, Manitowoc, and Lima cranes.
  
• Custom fabrication: Many wear parts can be reproduced in machine shops, particularly gears, shafts, and bushings.
  
• Engine repower: Installing a modern diesel engine with better fuel efficiency and emissions compliance can extend the crane’s life.
  
• Operator training: Because younger operators are less familiar with mechanical clutches and friction drums, investing in training is essential for safety.
  
• Preventive maintenance: Regular lubrication, clutch adjustments, and rope inspections are critical to avoid catastrophic breakdowns.
  

Historical Significance
The American 9535 represents a transitional era in crane development. It was built strong enough to handle demanding loads but still relied heavily on mechanical control systems. This was just before the wave of computerized cranes reshaped the industry. Many older operators remember these machines fondly, describing them as straightforward, reliable, and forgiving of tough jobsite conditions.
In a broader sense, the 9535 is a reminder of American Crane Company’s once-dominant position in the industry. Although the brand eventually faded, its machines left a legacy in infrastructure projects across the world. Some bridges, stadiums, and refineries still standing today were erected with the help of cranes like the 9535.
Conclusion
The American 9535 may not have the electronics or efficiency of modern cranes, but it continues to serve as a capable workhorse for those willing to invest in upkeep. Its robust design, significant lifting capacity, and historical pedigree make it both a practical tool and a piece of construction history. For contractors who inherit or purchase one today, success lies in careful maintenance, sourcing parts creatively, and respecting the operational skills these classic machines demand.