Restoring and Operating the 1984 Military Pettibone Multikrane Model 30

[MikePhua]

Quick Summary
The 1984 Pettibone Multikrane Model 30 is a versatile military-grade swing cab crane designed for rugged lifting tasks. With a Cummins diesel engine, telescopic boom, and robust hydraulic systems, it remains a viable machine for restoration and field use—provided its unique parts and service needs are understood.
Pettibone Multikrane Development and Military Use
Pettibone, founded in 1881, became a key supplier of material handling equipment for both civilian and military applications. The Multikrane series was developed in the 1970s and 1980s to meet the U.S. military’s demand for mobile cranes capable of operating in remote and undeveloped terrain. The Model 30, introduced in the early 1980s, featured a swing cab design, allowing 360-degree rotation and improved operator visibility.
By 1984, the Model 30 had been deployed across military bases and logistics hubs, often used for loading cargo, repairing infrastructure, and recovering vehicles. Its rugged frame and simplified mechanical systems made it ideal for field maintenance and long-term storage.
Core Specifications and Features

• Engine: Cummins V504C1B5 diesel, known for torque and reliability
  
• Boom: 3-section telescopic, manually or hydraulically extended
  
• Cab: Swing-type with full operator controls and mechanical gauges
  
• Tires: 16.00-24 TG, tubeless nylon, rated for off-road traction
  
• Dimensions: Approx. 36 ft 6 in long, 102 in wide, 11 ft 4 in high
  
• Filters: Common NAPA Gold series—Air 2890, Fuel 4071, Oil 1970, Hydraulic 3405
  

The swing cab configuration allows the operator to rotate the cab independently of the chassis, improving maneuverability in tight or uneven terrain. The boom’s reach and lift capacity vary depending on extension and angle, but typical loads range from 5,000 to 15,000 lbs.
Maintenance Challenges and Restoration Tips

• Hydraulic System
  The original hydraulic lines may be steel-braided rubber with military-grade fittings. Replace with modern equivalents rated for 3,000 psi. Flush the system before refilling with ISO 46 hydraulic oil.
  
• Electrical Wiring
  Many units used 24V military systems. Inspect for corrosion, especially at grounding points. Replace brittle insulation with marine-grade wire.
  
• Boom Extension
  Check for internal rust and pitting. Use borescope inspection if telescopic sections are seized. Apply anti-seize compound and test extension under low load.
  
• Cab Controls
  Mechanical levers may be stiff or misaligned. Lubricate pivot points and recalibrate linkage arms. Replace cracked gauge lenses with polycarbonate covers.
  

Parts Sourcing and Compatibility

• Filters and fluids: NAPA Gold filters are widely compatible
  
• Engine parts: Cummins V504 components are still available through diesel rebuilders
  
• Hydraulic seals: Match dimensions and material type; Viton or Buna-N recommended
  
• Boom rollers and wear pads: May require custom fabrication or salvage from similar Pettibone models
  

Field Anecdote
In Montana, a retired mechanic acquired a 1984 Multikrane Model 30 from a surplus auction. After replacing the hydraulic filters and rewiring the starter circuit, he used it to lift steel beams for a barn restoration. He noted that while the swing cab took getting used to, the machine’s stability and lifting power were impressive. He later added LED work lights and a backup camera, blending old-school mechanics with modern upgrades.
Operational Considerations

• Always extend outriggers fully before lifting
  
• Use a load chart to verify boom angle and extension limits
  
• Warm up hydraulics in cold weather to prevent seal damage
  
• Keep a binder of part numbers, torque specs, and service intervals
  

Conclusion
The 1984 Pettibone Multikrane Model 30 remains a capable and restorable crane for operators who appreciate mechanical simplicity and military-grade durability. With proper maintenance, modern fluid compatibility, and attention to hydraulic and electrical systems, this legacy machine can still perform demanding lifting tasks in field or industrial settings.