Hoist Inspection and Maintenance Services
We deliver high-compliance hoist inspection and maintenance solutions that extend equipment life, reduce downtime, and ensure readiness for the most demanding military and industrial environments.
Why Choose Us
2,500
Hoists inspected annually
1,000s
Gearbox fluid samples analyzed annually
$4.5M+
Hoist, bridge crane inspection services in past year
VENDORS
What Makes Us Unique
Deep Military and Government Expertise
Extensive experience meeting strict Navy, Army, OSHA, and ASME standards
Extensive Experience and Efficiency
We conduct inspections and maintenance on over 800 hoists annually.
Cybersecurity Safeguards
Unique expertise in cybersecurity controls for crane systems.
Our Hoist Inspection and Maintenance Checklist
Regular hoist inspections and maintenance are essential to ensuring safe, reliable, and mission-ready lifting operations. Whether installed as part of an overhead crane system or operating as a standalone unit, hoists are subject to heavy wear on critical components like wire ropes, chains, hooks, gearboxes, and control systems. Our expert technicians identify issues early, maintain compliance with OSHA, ASME, and DoD standards, and extend the service life of equipment. Here are some of the key steps we take to keep your hoists operating safely, efficiently, and in full compliance.
Structural and Mechanical
- Check the hoist frame, housing, and mounting for cracks, wear, or deformation
- Inspect the drum for cracks, grooves, or excessive wear
- Check the wire rope or chain for wear, kinks, twists, or elongation
- Verify hook condition (throat opening, latch function, cracks, deformation)
- Inspect sheaves and pulleys for wear and alignment
- Check the gearbox for leaks, unusual noise, or overheating
- Verify bearings and shafts for smooth operation
Electrical and Controls
- Inspect power supply connections (voltage, phasing, grounding)
- Check pendant control or remote operation functions
- Verify limit switches (upper, lower, and travel limits)
- Test the emergency stop function
- Inspect wiring insulation and festoon/cable reels for wear or damage.
Safety Systems
- Confirm overload protection devices are operational
- Inspect brakes (hoist brake, holding brake) for wear and proper adjustment
- Test safety latches, interlocks, and warning devices
Measurements
- Measure brake settings on all (i.e., hoist and travel) brakes and record in brake adjustment record, ensuring settings are within OEM-specified tolerances
- Measure lift medium (i.e., wire rope, chain) and ensure within OEM specified tolerances. Record measurement results in an inspection package.
- Measure and record hook throat opening.
Lubrication and Fluids
- Check gearbox oil levels and condition
- Take oil samples and analysis for internal gear wear and contaminants
- Lubricate wire rope/chain, bearings, and sheaves as specified by OEM
- Inspect hydraulic or pneumatic components (if applicable)
Operational Test
- Run hoist through full range of motion (up/down, load test if required)
- Listen for unusual sounds or vibrations
- Verify smooth lifting and lowering without jerking
- Confirm load holds securely when stopped
Documentation
- Record inspection findings in the inspection package or digital system
- Note deficiencies and corrective actions required
- Tag equipment “safe/unsafe for use” as per inspection outcome
Case Study: Improving Navy Crane Program Audit Performance
Background: Before Craneworks joined the program, the Navy’s lower-capacity crane program struggled to meet compliance standards. A Navy Crane Center (NCC) audit identified multiple deficiencies, prompting an assist visit from NCC to help address critical areas for improvement.
Solution: Craneworks was brought on board in 2019 to provide inspection and maintenance services. Leveraging deep technical expertise and a proactive approach to program compliance, the Craneworks team implemented structured maintenance processes, improved documentation, and ensured consistent adherence to Navy standards.
Results: Since Craneworks began supporting the program, NCC audit scores have steadily improved year over year, demonstrating measurable progress in safety, readiness, and program compliance. The collaboration not only strengthened operational reliability but also established Craneworks as a trusted partner in maintaining Navy crane readiness and performance.
OUR TEAM
Meet Terry Leach
Vice President of Operations, Overhead Crane Division
Mr. Terry Leach joined Craneworks in 2010 as a Project Manager for Large Projects, where he successfully led numerous electrical modernization initiatives for cranes ranging in capacity from 10 to 550 tons.
During his tenure, he managed several high-profile programs, including an 18-month, three-crane modernization project for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in South Dakota.
With over 28 years of experience across multiple industries—including Defense, Nuclear, Mining, Aviation, Pulp and Paper, Coal, and Hydropower Generation—Mr. Leach brings extensive technical and operational expertise to every project.
His proficiency in overhead lifting systems spans from integrated patented track monorails to 600-ton bridge cranes.
In 2020, he was promoted to Vice President of Operations for the Mid-Atlantic and Carolina Regions, where he oversees Navy Weight Handling Equipment (WHE) programs supporting multiple military installations.
Throughout his career, Mr. Leach has designed and installed more than 160 overhead bridge cranes and hoists, demonstrating a proven track record of engineering excellence and leadership in complex lifting applications.
Cody Williams
Overhead Crane Technician
[ Read Bio ]
Garry LewisName
Overhead Crane Technician
[ Read Bio ]
James Roy
Overhead Crane Technician
[ Read Bio ]
Lauren Dubose
Overhead Crane Technician
[ Read Bio ]
Curtis Newsome
Overhead Crane Technician
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Jonthan Hamilton
Service Manager
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FAQ
What types of hoists do you inspect and maintain?
Both commercial hoists (from manufacturers like Columbus McKinnon, Yale, Acco, and many more) and fabricated/custom hoists typically seen for heavier capacities (10 tonnes and up).
Do hoists have the exact inspection requirements as overhead cranes?
Yes. Hoists follow the same inspection criteria as overhead cranes, covering structural, mechanical, and electrical systems — just without bridge components.
How are hoist overhauls handled?
A hoist overhaul may include motor replacements, gearbox repairs, wire rope/chain replacements, and full control system upgrades. In some cases, it is more cost-effective to replace the entire hoist unit.
Are your hoist inspections compliant with DoD and military standards?
Yes. Our inspections align with OSHA, ASME, CMAA, and applicable DoD/Navy/Army specifications to ensure mission readiness.
Can older hoists in DoD facilities be overhauled instead of replaced?
Yes, in many cases. We provide cost-effective overhauls of motors, gearboxes, and control systems. For some hoists, full replacement is more practical — we help determine the best path depending on mission needs, budget and timeline requirements
Can you provide documentation and certification for hoist inspections?
Absolutely. Every inspection includes detailed reporting, certifications, and documentation that meet DoD audit and compliance requirements.
Do you support base access and security clearance requirements?
Yes. Our technicians are qualified for DoD base access and meet security requirements for working on government installations.
How often should hoists be inspected in military facilities?
Hoists should undergo frequent operator checks, periodic inspections, and annual inspections in accordance with OSHA/ASME standards. DoD facilities and crane OEMs often require additional periodicity, especially for mission-critical equipment.
Can you train DoD personnel to perform basic hoist inspections?
Yes. We often work alongside DoD personnel to provide hands-on training, enabling them to perform pre-use and in-service checks.
Do you offer emergency repair support for hoists on base?
Yes, but unlike commercial industry 24/7 service calls, our work typically aligns with DoD operational schedules. That said, we can mobilize quickly for mission-critical repairs.
