Transformer installations are critical operations that require the right equipment. Whether your crew is navigating tight residential spaces or tackling large-scale rural installations, having the proper tools can be the difference between a job that’s on schedule and one that causes costly delays.
At Skylift, we’ve been manufacturing industry-leading utility equipment since 2000. This has given us a strong understanding of the unique challenges utility crews face in the field. In this blog, we’ll break down some of the most effective equipment options for transformer installation.
When it comes to installing transformers in tight residential spaces, the ML 47 and ML 55 are two of the most reliable machines you can bring to the job. Both units feature a compact footprint that allows them to navigate through standard 36-inch gates and under 7-foot eaves — making them ideal for backyard utility work.
Each machine comes equipped with a 1,000-lb. material handling jib, perfectly suited for lifting and positioning transformers. Their insulated, articulating telescopic booms also provide an added layer of safety while supporting routine preventative maintenance and transformer replacement in the field.
If you’re installing transformers, Skylift’s pad mount carrier can help. Mounted directly to the lift, this optional component has a 1,500-lb. capacity and enables operators to transport transformers around the jobsite safely and efficiently.
When the jobsite is off the beaten path, you need a machine built to handle unpredictable terrain without sacrificing performance. That’s exactly what the Pioneer delivers.
Launched in 2018, the Pioneer is purpose-built for off-road utility pole applications. It’s engineered to travel across rough, uneven or muddy terrain — getting your crew and equipment where standard vehicles can’t.
In fact, one utility co-op saw a 5X increase in installation efficiency when using the Pioneer to install fiber in remote locations. You can read the full success story here.
Other Key Specs:
For transformer installations along roadways or in suburban environments, the SBA47i-MH offers the perfect balance of capability and compact design. This utility bucket truck delivers a 52-foot working height and features a 1,000-lb. material handling jib, making it ideal for transformer installation, preventative maintenance, and aerial work.
What makes the SBA47i-MH especially valuable is its footprint. Built on a Ford F-550 Super Duty chassis, it’s smaller and more maneuverable than traditional utility trucks, allowing crews to operate in tighter spaces without the need for lane closures or major traffic rerouting. This means faster jobsite setup, reduced public disruption, and more efficient workflow overall.
Choosing the right equipment for transformer installations can make all the difference when it comes to crew safety, job efficiency and long-term performance. Whether you’re working in tight residential spaces, off-road environments or along busy streets, Skylift has a solution built to meet your needs.
If you’d like to learn more about our machines — or if you're ready to request a quote — our team is here to help. Contact us today to speak with a Skylift expert and find the right machine for your next job.