Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQs

Q: What is Skylift utility equipment used for?

A: Skylift builds specialized utility equipment used to access overhead and underground infrastructure in areas where traditional trucks cannot reach.

• Our tracked easement machines are compact backyard machines designed for alleys, urban properties, and tight spaces.
• Our truck-mounted insulated booms are ideal for roadside and aerial jobs such as transformer replacement and energized line access.

From backyard easement work to roadside jobs, Skylift machines keep crews working safely and efficiently.

Q: Where are you located?

A: We are based in Lorain, Ohio, 29 miles just outside of Cleveland, and proudly manufacture our machines in the U.S.A.

Q: What types of machines do you offer?

A: Skylift offers a full line of utility equipment, including:

Tracked easement machines – compact, powerful units for backyards and narrow sites:

• Digger derricks (including backyard digger derricks)
• Material handlers / material handler machines
• Arborist lifts/arborist trailers
• Battery-powered mini derricks like the MD 6000 E-Series

Truck-mounted insulated booms – ideal for roadside and aerial work:

• Articulating boom trucks with telescopic reach
• Material handling jibs
• ANSI A92.2 insulation for energized line safety
• Mounting on heavy-duty chassis such as the Ford F-550

Whether you need to set a pole in a backyard or replace a transformer from the shoulder of a road, Skylift has purpose-built equipment to help your crews access the jobsite safely and efficiently.

Q: Can I customize my machine?

A: Yes. Skylift offers customization options, including hydraulic tilting pole guides, can handlers, continuous rotation, kelly bar extensions, thermoplastic mats, capstan winches, and dual buckets.

Q: How much does Skylift's specialized utility equipment cost?

A: Pricing depends on model, specs, and customization. Contact our sales for a quote.

Q: What accessories are available for Skylift easement machines?

A: Skylift easement machines can be fitted with multiple accessory options. Visit our equipment page or contact our parts department for details.

Machine Performance & Specs FAQs

Q: What’s the difference between platform height and working height?

A: Platform height refers to the bucket’s bottom when fully extended. Working height is 5 feet higher than platform height.

Q: What types of terrain can Skylift machines operate on?

A: Our tracked easement machines are engineered for uneven, soft, or narrow terrain. Whether in backyards, alleys, or rugged jobsites, Skylift equipment ensures reliable access.

Q: Are Skylift machines insulated for electrical safety?

A: Yes. Many Skylift models feature insulated booms meeting ANSI A92.2 standards, keeping crews safe when working near energized lines. 

Q: What is the payload or material handling capacity for your machines?

A: Payload varies by model. For example, the ML 47 handles 1,200 lbs, while the ML 55 handles 1,000 lbs with its integrated material handler.

Q: Can Skylift easement machines fit through standard-sized gates?

A: Yes. Skylift mini units retract from 51" to 35" to pass through standard 36" gates,  making them true specialty easement machines.

Q: What are the Skylift machine travel angles?

A: Machines are rated for 10° side-to-side and 20° front-to-back travel.

Q: What are some of the standard ways Skylift easement machines can be customized?

A: Units can be customized with hydraulic tilting pole guides, can handlers, continuous rotation, kelly bar extensions, thermoplastic mats, capstan winches, dual buckets and more.

Warranty & Reliability FAQs

Q: What’s the warranty on Skylift easement machines and what does it cover?

A: All machines include:

• Lifetime warranty on Skylift-fabricated structural parts
• Two-year warranty on Skylift-manufactured components
• One-year full machine warranty

Q: How long do Skylift machines typically last?

A: Many units remain in service for over a decade. Skylift equipment is built for reliability and long-term field use.

Q: Why should I choose Skylift over competitors?

A: Crews prefer Skylift for ease of use, field serviceability, and proven reliability. While upfront costs may be higher, customers save money over time through reduced downtime and readily available parts.

Parts, Service & Support FAQs

Q: Where are machines repaired or serviced?

A: Machines can be serviced in-house, through authorized distributors, or at any qualified hydraulic repair shop.

Q: How quickly can I get replacement parts?

A: We stock many parts for quick delivery to maximize uptime. Contact our parts department for availability.

Q: Where can I find spec sheets for Skylift machines?

A: Spec sheets are available for download on each equipment page under the Specifications section.

Q: Where do I find the machine serial number?

A: For the MD 6000, the four-digit serial number is on the valve frame data plate.

For the Patriot, the serial number is on the lower turret data plate.

Buying Process & Pricing FAQs

Q: How do I get a quote?

A: Easy, just click “Request a Quote” on our website or call us directly. We’ll walk through your specs, share pricing and lead times, and help you get exactly what you need.

Q: Do you sell direct or only through distributors?

A: We primarily sell through a network of trusted distributors. However, if you’re unsure who to work with in your region, we’re happy to connect you.

Q: Do you offer financing or leasing options?

A: Skylift does not provide direct financing, but our distributor network offers flexible financing, leasing, and rental options for Skylift utility equipment. If your crew needs short-term access or long-term lease programs, we’ll connect you with a trusted distributor in your region to find the right solution.

Q: What’s the lead time for a new machine?

A: Lead times vary depending on demand and customization. Please request a quote for the most accurate delivery timeline based on your model and configuration.

Truck-Mounted Equipment FAQs

Q: What truck-mounted equipment does Skylift offer?

A: We offer insulated bucket trucks, which combines an articulating telescopic boom with a 1,000-lb material handler. It’s ideal for transformer replacement, preventative maintenance, and other aerial utility work.

Q: What is the working height of your bucket truck models?

A: The SBA47i-MH has a 51.4-ft working height, with a platform height of 46.4 ft. As with all Skylift machines, the platform height + 5 feet equals the working height.

Q: What chassis do your trucks come on?

A: Our insulated boom trucks are typically mounted on Ford F-550 Super Duty chassis, designed to handle the demands of urban, suburban and off-road applications.

Q: Are Skylift trucks insulated?

A: Yes, models like the SBA47i-MH are fully insulated to meet ANSI A92.2 standards, keeping linemen safe while working on energized lines.

Q: Can truck-mounted units be used for backyard jobs?

A: While our backyard easement machines are better suited for tight spaces, truck-mounted equipment like the SBA47i-MH is ideal for roadside or open-access jobs. We recommend choosing based on site accessibility and crew needs.

Q: Do Skylift trucks include material handling features?

A: Yes. Our truck-mounted units feature material handling jibs rated up to 1,000 lbs, allowing for efficient transformer replacement and pole work.

Q: Do Skylift trucks come with warranties?

A: Yes. Like all of our machines, truck-mounted units come with:

• Lifetime warranty on all Skylift-fabricated structural parts
• 2-year warranty on Skylift-manufactured components
• 1-year full machine warranty

Q: Can I customize the truck configuration?

A: Absolutely. We work with you to spec the right boom, material handler and chassis configuration for your crew and application.

Sustainability & Innovation FAQs 

Q: What makes the MD 6000 E-Series unique?

A: The MD 6000 E-Series is the first battery-powered mini derrick designed as a backyard easement machine. It delivers:

• Lower emissions
• Quieter operation
• Full performance for digging, lifting, and setting poles

Q: Are there grants or incentives for electric machinery?

A: Yes. Utilities and municipalities may qualify for tax credits, grants, or sustainability funding when investing in electric utility bucket trucks and backyard easement machines.

Q: How does Skylift reduce environmental impact?

A: Skylift designs long-lasting, efficient equipment that reduces waste, jobsite disruption, and the need for frequent replacement.