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At Skylift, innovation and a commitment to continuous improvement are at our very foundation and are why our best-in-class specialty backyard easement machines are preferred among crews in the field. The result of our dedication is simple. Skylift machines are reliable, easy to maintain and built to last.
Innovation and improvement were key themes for our company in 2023, and we’d like to take a moment to share a couple of highlights from this year. First, Skylift released the MD 6000R digger derrick, which features fully radial outriggers to provide unmatched stability and flexibility. Next, we formed new partnerships with four distributors, growing our nationwide network to provide equipment rental and purchase, as well as service and repair, to an even larger number of end users.
Learn more about these highlights below.
Introducing the MD 6000R
Throughout its 25-year history, Skylift has taken pride in being at the forefront of technological advancements that enhance the capabilities and safety of our equipment. We also strive to maintain a customer-centric approach, valuing the feedback of our loyal customers and designing machines to meet emerging market needs.
This is why, in September 2023, Skylift introduced its latest groundbreaking innovation, the MD 6000R digger derrick, which meets customer needs for a fully radial machine and provides unmatched stability and flexibility.
Just like its predecessor, the MD 6000, the new machine allows line crews to work at greater capacities and heights when installing heavier poles, safely and efficiently. Both pieces of equipment are the lowest-standing machines in the industry, offering the ability to fit in challenging spaces, such as under carports and roof eaves.
Production of the MD 6000R is slated to begin in January 2024, signifying an exciting new phase for Skylift. The machine offers the following features to enhance safety and efficiency in any utility pole location, from tight backyards to off-road terrain.
Full Radial System
The MD 6000R’s individually controlled, full radial outriggers adapt to any situation, whether it’s uneven ground or tight spaces, to ensure a secure foundation for your operations. Independent control means each outrigger can be positioned as needed to avoid obstructions. Its fully automatic auger release system increases ease and efficiency by streamlining operation and reducing the workload placed on operators.
Improved User Experience
Enabling the boom on the original MD 6000 required operators to hold an extra switch, which could be cumbersome and tiring. The MD 6000R offers a game-changing 5-second boom enable feature. This means that linemen no longer need to hold an extra switch continuously, enhancing operator comfort and reducing the risk of fatigue-related errors.
Whereas the traditional MD6000 had all controls on the machine, operators can operate the MD 6000R’s outriggers, auger release, and track extend and retract all from the remote. This results in quicker setup and removes potential pinch points when deploying the outrigger, since operators do not have to touch them directly.
Added Safety & Efficiency
To further enhance safety, the MD 6000R features a notification light on the remote control for the 5-second boom enable switch. This light serves as a visual indicator, ensuring that operators are aware of the boom’s status, to prevent accidental activation and guarantee workers’ well-being. This new feature not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to a safer working environment, underscoring Skylift’s commitment to both innovation and safety.
As with all of Skylift’s industry-leading specialty backyard easement machines, the MD 6000R is backed by our 24/7 tech support, is built to last, and is easy to maintain. Download the MD 6000R spec sheet.
New Distributor Partnerships
In 2023, Skylift expanded by forming new partnerships with four additional distributors to grow our nationwide network:
- CraneWorks, founded in 2002, with multiple branches strategically located throughout the U.S.
- Commercial Truck, founded in 1947, is Canada’s largest truck equipment supplier and vehicle integrator. Exclusively covering all of Canada, this partnership allowed Skylift to enter an all-new market.
- Pro Group Equipment, founded in 2020, covers the Northeast of the U.S.
- Brown Equipment Co., founded in 1968, covers six Midwest states and is the newest Skylift distributor.
The new distributor partnerships provide equipment rental and purchase, plus service and repair, to a growing number of end users.
Keep your crews operating efficiently with industry-leading solutions built for your specialty backyard utility projects.