The Jekko JF990 makes the crawler crane even more powerful

After the successful JF365 a new, more performing model hits the market and offers superior lifting capacity still within the overall dimensions of a "non-oversized" transport

The crawler crane by Jekko grows up, not in terms of dimensions but rather in performance, capacity and innovation. 

After the sales success of models JF545 and JF365, Jekko has once again raised the bar and offers a crawler crane featuring all the characteristics of the F990 by Fassi. That’s how the JF990 has been developed: “a winning bet” as declared by Alberto Franceschini, Export Sales Manager Jekko. 

It’s a real evolution of the species where the traditionally compact dimensions (6,75 x 2,14 x 3,45 metres – 265 ¾ x 122 ½ x 84 ¼ ) combine with increased extension capacity (up to 41 metres – 134 ft), very elevated lifting capacity (max 21.500 kg – 47.400 lb) and advantages in transport.

“We’ve won the first part of the bet – explains Mr Franceschini – which consisted in investing in an innovative product still not present on the market. We’ve developed a new machine, a stabilized crane truck on tracks that operates as if it was a minicrane. We’ve merged the experience deriving from the JF545 and the JF365 and have therefore responded to the market requirements for more performing yet compact-size machines". 

When compared to the dimensions of a truck, the JF990 still is a minicrane: compact, with variable stabilization modes and a dual engine, Diesel and electric. But above all it can reach 41 metres (134 ft) in height when using the hydraulic jib and three manual extensions or 38 metres (125 ft) with an operator basket, which means it can work where a truck cannot reach. 

Multiple operating modes 

The JF990 can work vertically or horizontally, it overcomes, goes round, uses the hook or the winch; it can also be equipped with a glass pane manipulator, a 3-person hydraulic platform in case of operation with a double articulated joint, and a 1- or 2-operator basket when using the jib to reach as high as 38 m. The hydraulic activation on the jib allows for any additional option to be installed. 

Non-exceptional load transport 

The JF990 without counterweight can be transported on a regular truck without requiring an “exceptional load transport”. Its 21.800-kg (48.061-lb) weight is ideal when excellent performance is required from a minicrane able to work for all purposes as an articulated crane. 

Standard and extra counterweight 

This machine can use a 2,1-ton (4.630-lb) standard counterweight for stabilization on an area of 8,5 x 8,5 metres (28 x 28 ft) as well as a 3-ton (6.612-lb) extra counterweight reducing the crane footprint to an area of 7 x 7 metres (23 x 23 ft). The disassembly system – a fast and automatic quick release system similar to that of much bigger cranes - is managed via the radio remote control. 

Super accessibility in confined spaces 

The JF990 has such features that it can be easily used instead of a tower crane or a crane vehicle but without being installed on a truck. This crawler crane is independent from its truck and reaches confined places having a major and positive impact on site logistic timing. It can be transported to and used on all those places where a truck cannot reach: industrial sites, small places, narrow city centres, fenced parks, etc. 

Endless hoisting possibilities 

Jekko has developed a software managing stabilization in endless combinations. Each outrigger can take any angle and extension and the software will continuously calculate the operating pressure considering the position of the outriggers and the deriving tilting line. Five stability levels will be displayed on the screen for a user-friendly reading of the loading charts. 

One crane, one operator 

This crane can be entirely managed by a single operator via the radio remote control, a true extension of the machine always at hand. Starting/stopping, crane operations, stabilization, jib or counterweight installation can be carried out by the operator all by himself. 

Engine: both Diesel and electric 

The JF990 is fitted with both a Deutz TCS3.6 L4 55 kW (Stage V, Tier 4) electronic Diesel engine and a 13 kW three-phase electric motor. Depending on the situations or the requirements, the operator can easily switch from one option to the other: the crane is very flexible and can be used indoors and outdoors. 

Competitive edge 

Such a versatile crane can be used in manifold situations: special hoisting, laying in confined areas both in yards (beams, balconies, glass panes, air conditioning systems, etc.) or in industrial environments (machinery of various size), maintenance, service, etc. The JF990 is the ideal machine for specialized hoisting companies – in order to complement their existing fleet of articulated truck cranes and city cranes – as well as for companies specialized in rental with or without operator notably for being easy to move by means of a non-oversized transport. 

“We intend to market this crane mainly in North America and in Central and Northern Europe, where there’s a large demand for machinery able to differentiate from other products – Mr Franceschini concluded. – I’m thinking of Norway as an example, where new regulations provide for a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions also for yard machinery starting from 2021. The JF990 can operate in electric mode therefore it brings many advantages in highly environmentally-friendly Countries. Rental will be another interesting segment because the JF990 has limited weight and excellent performance compared to similar cranes”. 

Technical characteristics of JEKKO JF990 

• Overall dimensions: 6,75 x 2,14 x 3,45 metres (¾ x 122 ½ x 84 ¼) 

• Max SWL: 21,5 ton (47.400 lb) 

• Stability area: 8,5 x 8,5 metres (28 x 28 ft) 

• Weight: 21.800 kg (48.061 lb) + 1.680 kg (3.704 lb) jib + 2,1 ton (4.630 lb) standard counterweight and 3 ton (6.612 lb) extra counterweight 

• Engine: Deutz 55 kW (Stage V, Tier 4) electronic Diesel + 13.5 kW three-phase motor 

• Max height (with Jib): 41 metres (134 ft) 

• Max reach (with Jib): 38 metres (125 ft) 

• Rotation: 360° continuous