Model PLB Precision Lifting Boom — Converts Your Forklift into a Self-Contained Portable Crane
The Model PLB Precision Lifting Boom is a fork truck attachment designed to quickly transform a standard forklift into a fully functional portable crane. Built for contractors and trades professionals who need versatile, on-site lifting capability without a dedicated crane, the PLB mounts directly to standard fork pockets and adjusts both horizontally and vertically. Its completely self-contained 12V DC power supply with a 100 AMP Hour battery eliminates the need for external power sources, making it ideal for job sites where power access is limited. In real-world testing, the unit lifted and lowered a 1,000-pound load from an eight-foot steel pit forty times on a single full charge.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Cap @ 7–12' (lbs.) | 2,400 |
| Cap – Boom Hook @ 3–6' (lbs.) | 6,000 |
| Cap – Boom Hook @ 12' (lbs.) | 2,500 |
| Cap – Boom Hook @ 13' (lbs.) | 2,300 |
| Cap – Boom Hook @ 14' (lbs.) | 2,100 |
| Cap – Lift Hook @ 15' (lbs.) | 2,000 |
| Hook Travel | Approximately 20' |
| Hoist Hook Speed | 7.5 FPM |
| Power Supply | 12V DC, self-contained |
| Battery | 100 AMP Hour with charger included |
| Battery Charge Time | 4 to 5 hours |
| Control | Toggle button with standard 12' cord |
| Max Jaw Open (in.) | 1.36 |
| Fork Pocket Height (in.) | 2.5 |
| Fork Pocket Width (in.) | 7.5 |
| Out to Out (in.) | 22.5 |
Model Variants
| Specification | FB-60-PLB | PB-60-PLB |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (lbs.) | 590 | 620 |
| Min Height (in.) | 26 | 28.25 |
| Headroom (in.) | 26 | 28.25 |
| Max Jaw Open (in.) | 1.36 | 1.36 |
| Fork Pocket Height (in.) | 2.5 | 2.5 |
| Fork Pocket Width (in.) | 7.5 | 7.5 |
| Out to Out (in.) | 22.5 | 22.5 |
Unlike renting a dedicated crane or relying on fixed overhead hoists, the Model PLB leverages the forklift already on your job site, eliminating additional equipment costs and mobilization time. Its self-contained battery system and compact form factor mean it can be deployed wherever the forklift can travel, without running power cables or sourcing external equipment. The adjustable boom — both horizontally and vertically — provides positioning flexibility that a standard forklift mast alone cannot offer.
Key Features & Benefits
Self-Contained 12V DC Power System
The PLB runs entirely on its onboard 100 AMP Hour battery, requiring no external power connection. The included charger restores full charge in four to five hours, keeping the unit ready for the next shift without extended downtime.
Fits Standard Forklift Trucks
Designed to mount directly to standard fork pockets, the PLB integrates with the forklift equipment already on site. No specialized mounting hardware or custom modifications to the lift truck are required.
Horizontal and Vertical Adjustment
The boom adjusts both horizontally and vertically, giving operators precise load positioning that a standard forklift mast cannot achieve. This flexibility is critical when placing loads in confined spaces or at varying heights.
Approximately 20' Hook Travel
With roughly 20 feet of hook travel and a hoist speed of 7.5 FPM, the PLB can reach into pits, shafts, or elevated positions that would otherwise require a separate crane. This range makes it practical for a wide variety of vertical lifting tasks.
Easy Toggle Button Control
The standard 12-foot control cord with toggle button allows the operator to manage lifts from a safe, clear position. Simple controls reduce training time and minimize the risk of operator error during lifts.
Restraining Chain with Grab Hooks
An integrated restraining chain with grab hooks provides an additional layer of load security during transport and positioning. This feature helps prevent unintended load movement when traveling with a suspended load.
Common Applications
Pit and Below-Grade Lifting
The PLB's approximately 20-foot hook travel makes it well suited for lifting materials into or out of pits, vaults, and below-grade excavations where a standard forklift mast cannot reach.
Construction Site Material Placement
Contractors can use the PLB to place heavy materials — such as mechanical equipment, structural components, or precast elements — with precision at locations the forklift can access but cannot directly set with its forks.
Industrial Maintenance and Equipment Rigging
The adjustable boom and variable capacity ratings (up to 6,000 lbs. at 3–6 feet) make the PLB practical for rigging and positioning heavy industrial equipment during installation or maintenance operations.
Remote or Power-Limited Job Sites
Because the unit is fully battery-powered and self-contained, it is particularly useful on job sites where electrical power is unavailable or inconvenient to run to the lifting area.
Compatible Materials
- Structural steel components
- Precast concrete elements
- Mechanical and HVAC equipment
- Electrical gear and transformers
- General construction materials and palletized loads
Product Documents
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Model PLB require an external power source on the job site?
A: No. The PLB is completely self-contained with a 12V DC, 100 AMP Hour battery and an included charger. It does not require an external power connection to operate.
Q: How long does the battery take to recharge?
A: The battery charges in four to five hours using the supplied charger.
Q: Will the rated capacity of the PLB always be achievable with my forklift?
A: Not necessarily. The capacity of the lift truck and attachment combination may be less than the capacity shown on the attachment. You should consult your lift truck manufacturer for guidance on the combined rated capacity.
Q: What is the maximum load capacity of the PLB?
A: At boom positions of 3–6 feet, the PLB is rated at 6,000 lbs. Capacity decreases as the boom extends: 2,500 lbs. at 12 feet, 2,300 lbs. at 13 feet, and 2,100 lbs. at 14 feet. At 7–12 feet the rated capacity is 2,400 lbs.
Q: What are the two available model variants?
A: The FB-60-PLB weighs 590 lbs. with a minimum height and headroom of 26 inches. The PB-60-PLB weighs 620 lbs. with a minimum height and headroom of 28.25 inches. All other key specs are identical between the two models.