Lifting a Container from the Ground

Step	Action
	It is essential to follow the practices recommended in this section. It is not acceptable to assume that because an action is possible, it is best practice. Incorrect usage can result in damage to the equipment and service resulting from such usage will not be covered by any warranty or service agreement.
1	Park the Sidelifter alongside the container with approximately 300mm clearance between the container and the Sidelifter.
2	Complete the following checks: Sidelifter twistlocks are fitted to the corner castings according to the size of the container - see Lifting Lugs. Sidelifter Brake is applied! No hazards and obstructions such as overhanging building awnings, electric power lines or telephone cables. Nothing is in the way of the Stabiliser Feet and surface is solid enough to bear them. Twistlocks on the Sidelifter are in the raised position and unlocked
3	Start the engine (or PTO) and Sidelifter controls. On multi crane units, select the Front 20', 40', or rear 20' option on the three-way switch.
4	Select the mode selection switch on the right hand side of the remote control to Stabilisers (). Extend the stabiliser leg extensions to their maximum then tilt the legs until the feet touch the ground. NOTE: Ensure that the strength of the ground surface is sufficient to withstand a 11 tonne maximum point loading. If you are in doubt as to this, then pack with 50mm thick hardwood timber of at least 200mm x 500mm under each stabiliser foot.
	WARNING: If the Ground is lower under one stabiliser leg than the other, DO NOT attempt a lift until this has been corrected using dunnage under that leg. Failure to do this can result in excessive container swing, which can damage the crane.
5	Select the mode selection switch on top of the right hand end of the remote control to Arms (). Manoeuvre the top and bottom arms until the chains are positioned centrally allowing the lifting lugs to be fitted into the container corner fittings, ensuring that there are no twists or tangles in the chains.
	WARNING: Do not try to force the cranes alongside a container. If the lifting arms will not clear the container, the lifting equipment and stabiliser legs should be returned to the stowed position and the Sidelifter moved so it will clear the container.
6	Take an initial strain on the chains by raising the top arms upwards. Ensure that the lift pins of the crane are in the centre of the container. This can be verified readily by checking that the top chain hoops take the strain in a vertical position. Choose between the movement of the top and bottom arms to centralise the lift pins. Take the weight of the container and check that the Sidelifter is stable with the weight being lifted.
7	Lift the container approximately 150mm (6in) off the ground by raising the top arms. In the event that the container is lifting unevenly it may be necessary to operate one end only to bring the lower end of the container up to a level position. Move the container, just above the ground, towards the Sidelifter, until it is about 300 mm from the side of the Sidelifter.
8	Raise the top arms until the bottom of the container is level with the top of the Sidelifter chassis.
9	Lower the arms until the container corner fittings are above their respective twistlocks.
	WARNING: Rapid starting and stopping movements are stressful on the equipment, and may cause the container to swing. The controls should be feathered in and out of operation to give smooth movement.
10	Lower the container down onto the twistlocks by locating either front corner onto a Twistlock anvil, and then the rear visible corner onto its Twistlock. With practice operators will be able to land the containers onto the twistlocks in one smooth operation.
11	Lower the lifting arms to their stowed position.
12	Select Stabilisers () and return the stabiliser legs to their stowed position. Shut down the controls by switching off the remote. Stow remote in truck cab and deactivate engine (or PTO).
13	Lock the twistlocks.
14	The Sidelifter can now be driven to the unloading site.