11.10.2010

Steel covers for JLG

JLG is switching to steel covers on its diesel/gas powered boom lift line beginning with the 600S, 800S and 800A models for the American market.

The new covers were already being fitted to units on the production line last week.

The change comes largely in response to customer demand for covers that are easier to repair and less expensive to replace. They are also more likely to hold the orange colour, something that the composite covers are not noted for in areas that see a lot of sun.

The steel covers will also be available for the after market from JLG Ground Support and factory approved retrofit kits will also be available for lifts built prior to October 4th 2010.
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The new steel covers

The retrofit kits consist of a complete steel hood assembly package, including mounting weldments and hardware, along with detailed installation instructions. The following products will have retrofit kits available: 600, 800 and 860 series of telescopic boom lifts along with the 740 and 800 series articulated boom lifts.

Chris Mellott, JLG vice-president - sales and market development for the Americas said: “We listened to the feedback of our customers and worked with our development team to reduce the total cost of ownership and increase the longevity of our boom lifts. The upgrade to steel hoods adds a unique design element to our industry-leading engine-powered boom lifts and we are proud to offer these improvements to our customers.”
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The same machine with composite covers

European models will continue to be fitted with composite covers at least for the immediate future.

Vertikal Comment

JLG has been fitting composite gull wing covers since at least 1996 on some models, there were always some customers who mourned the passing of steel covers on these heavy duty machines. However the benefits of improved styling and lift up access to all components, that came with the composite covers, was also attractive.

It seems that since then the all steel camp has grown in size, particularly in the more frugal economic environment. At the same time the cost of the composite covers has increased while the steel alternative has fallen.

So JLG can now answer those customers who have long called for steel covers, while cutting costs – a win win situation.

The downside? The looks – the curvaceousness of the composite covers has given way to the practical angularity of the steel. In the USA this is not an issue, while in Europe looks are a more sensitive issue.

Could that change in these hard times? If enough European buyers ask for them JLG will be only too happy to make the switch global. In the meantime it will sensibly not risk imposing it.