PALFINGER PCC115 crawler crane set up with outriggers in R&R's yard, with Central Otago mountains in the background

R&R Hiab Services LTD has built its business on finding the right way to lift, move and place what customers need, often in places where the site itself is part of the challenge.

With New Zealand’s first PALFINGER PCC115 crawler crane now in service, the Otago based team has added more than another crane truck. It is a specialist lifting solution for jobs where access, terrain or setup space demand a different approach.

“We have the largest variety of crane trucks in our area to do what we need to. Being able to offer something above these cranes was key for our clients.”

Ray Casey, Managing Director.

Capability above the existing fleet

Established by Ray and Stacey in 2014, R&R Hiabs is a 100% Kiwi owned and operated truck mounted crane and transport specialist. The business works across Queenstown, Central Otago, Dunedin and surrounding regions, with the crawler crane expected to be used mainly around Queenstown and Dunedin, but available South Island wide.

R&R Hiabs supports a broad range of crane and transport work, including heavy lifting, static crane work, containers, oversize work, specialised projects and MPI transitional facility support.

In places like Queenstown and Dunedin, capability is not only measured by how much a crane can lift. It is also measured by where it can get to, how it can set up, and how well it can adapt once it is on site.

Ray says the PCC115 was initially selected for “the unique terrain of Queenstown and some of its tight and inaccessible sites” and the opportunity to supply “a unique way of lifting that no one else can.”

The customer challenge is simple: complicated and heavy lifts in tight places.

PALFINGER PCC115 crawler crane with outriggers fully deployed in R&R's yard

PALFINGER PCC115 crawler crane travelling over uneven terrain with outriggers folded for transport.

What makes the PCC115 different

For Ray, the PCC115 stood out because it brings several specialist functions together in one machine. He describes it as “the only machine available with the PCC’s unique demountable crawler, heavy lift capability and long reach with hydraulic fly jib, manual fly jib and workman basket operations.”

That combination is what gives R&R Hiabs a different way to approach complicated lifting work.

The crane module can be separated from the crawler power unit, helping reduce height where access is restricted. Once in position, the machine can also shift lengthways and sideways, allowing it to work into corners, around obstacles and closer to the load.

The stabiliser and counterweight system adds another important advantage. The PCC115 uses a heavy duty H frame stabiliser system designed to support 360 degree stability. It also includes an 8 tonne detachable counterweight, with the crawler module acting as a further counterweight. This gives the machine strong stability options, including operation with stabilisers close to 50% retracted while still maintaining full stability.

For jobs where a truck mounted crane may need larger access angles or lifting pad requirements, the PCC115 can fit into a smaller footprint. That is where the machine starts to change what is practical.

Operator confidence on site

The crawler crane adds new capability, but it also gives operators a familiar PALFINGER control platform.

Ray says it is “easy to switch after operating a PALFINGER truck crane,” with the same remote and control feel helping the team move into the new machine with confidence.

Auto setup also makes a practical difference, while crawler mobility allows the machine to move between lifts rather than staying fixed to one position.

“Being able to move around on site between lifts is a real benefit,” says Ray

Behind the controls, PALFINGER technology supports the operator with remote operation, HPSC stability control and different setup, counterweight and footprint options. The PALcom P7 remote helps keep the load in view, while PALTRONIC P150 processes crane data in real time to support safe, efficient lifting performance.

PALFINGER PCC115 crawler crane set up on a construction site in mountainous terrain under a clear blue sky.

What it means for customers

Ask Ray to sum up what the PCC115 means for customers, and the answer is direct: “We do not have to say no to any job.”

For R&R Hiab, that is the real value. The PCC115 supplements the existing crane truck fleet and offroad equipment while giving the team a different way to solve complicated lifts.

Ray expects the PCC115 to be used for confined access jobs around new developments in Queenstown, where tight access requirements can still come with large crane requirements. He also sees the machine opening up more practical options for specialist work such as erecting gondola towers.

The built in electrohydraulic powerpack adds another sustainability benefit. The crane can be plugged into site power and operated without the diesel engine running. While the engine is off, that allows zero carbon footprint lifting from the crane operation itself. For suitable sites, it can also reduce exhaust fumes and noise during lifting work.

A partnership behind the machine

R&R Hiab’s decision to choose PALFINGER again was shaped by the product, but also by the relationship behind it.

“Reece, Duncan and the team are fantastic to deal with, along with a great product, and excellent backup and service,” says Ray.

He describes the relationship with PALFINGER NZ as “more like a partnership.”

That support was important during setup and training. Reece Dillon, PALFINGER NZ South Island Sales Representative, spent a week with the R&R Hiab team. A PALFINGER service technician also supported the machine setup and training, helping bring the PCC115 up to NZ specification and giving the team confidence with the equipment.