Dan Mayer, president of Mayer Tree Service, says that although the all-terrain crane is more expensive than a boom truck, he can complete the work quicker and maximize his revenue.
“Using the Grove all-terrain cranes has really increased our production and we haven’t had to increase our manpower,” he says. “We are able to do more volume with less manpower, and that’s what it’s all about.”
Mayer operates two Grove GMK3055 cranes rated with a 60 USt (55 t) maximum capacity and a maximum main boom of 141 ft (43 m). The size and weight of the loads that Mayer picks depends on factors such as the type of tree, where the tree is cut and the distance the crane is from the pick. The majority of picks are in the 3000 – 4000 lb (1.4 – 1.8 t) range, but can go up to 7000 – 8000 lb (3.2 – 3.6 t).
With so many variables, Mayer says Grove’s higher capacity allows more versatility on job sites.
“Because of the Grove’s high tip heights we can pick an entire 70 ft (21 m) pine tree weighing maybe 6000 lb (2.7 t),” he says. “We’ll pick it in one piece. It’s a lot safer. The guys on the ground just need to make one cut in the tree. Using a bigger crane lowers our exposure and the number of people we need to have off the ground.”
The GMK3055 has obvious advantages in terms of reach and lift capacity. But it is a larger machine, so some customers may worry about access and ground pressure.
But Dan Mayer says both of these concerns are unfounded.
“Everybody thinks the GMK3055 is a big truck but the footprint is only 20 ft 6 in (6.4 m) between the outrigger pistons,” he says. “That’s important because we’re often in restricted driveways. Other people look at it being heavy and wonder if I destroy many driveways. But actually I don’t because of Grove’s MEGATRAK suspension, which transfers weight intelligently.”
Mayer also points out that the GMK has wider tires so the load spreads over a wider area. The all-wheel drive and crab steering allow it to maneuver into the tightest spots. In fact, Mayer is quick to note that the three-axle GMK3055 actually has a smaller turning circle than his pick-up truck.
Both GMK3055 cranes were supplied to Mayer through local Manitowoc dealer, Shawmut Equipment Company. Because it is relatively unusual to find all-terrain cranes working in arboreal environments, Mayer maintains close communication with his local dealer and it’s a relationship that has developed well.
Mayer says the support and service from Shawmut allow him to work the Grove all-terrain cranes hard – and they consistently perform.
“I couldn’t say enough good things about Shawmut; they give us just incredible support,” he says. “We work in a tough environment and we’re putting the crane up sometimes four times a day at four different addresses. Our hours are high and the conditions are harsh, with the wood chips and the dusty environment. But sometimes it’s just amazing what we get done in the day; the GMKs impress me all the time.”
Mayer Tree Service is headquartered in Essex, Massachusetts. Company owner, Dan Mayer, started the business 11 years ago. Today Mayer runs eight crews with two crews running the cranes. There are between three and four men per crew and 30 people in total at the company. Dan Mayer is also the current president of the Massachusetts Arborists Association.
