Skyjack Stacks the Deck (Part 2)

Enlarge Image Image 1: The 8243 performed well in very challenging terrain

February 23, 2005—Skyjack Inc., Guelph, Ontario, remains true to its no-nonsense, robust design philosophy with a pair of new mid-size rough-terrain scissor lifts. Recognizing that not all applications for taller scissor lifts warrant large decks and capacities, Skyjack's new 8243 and 8850 feature trim deck sizes, reduced capacities, and more price-sensitive sticker tags. The 8243 is 82 inches wide and has a platform height of 43 feet. Soon to follow is the 8850, which will be the first mid-size RT scissor lift with a 50-foot platform height to hit the market.

For information about Skyjack's position in the market, go to [Part One].

The 8243 shares the signature features found on other Skyjack RT scissor lifts, including four-wheel drive with “Detroit Locker” on the rear axle and limited slip differential on the front steering axle. This combination provides excellent performance in challenging terrain. The axles on my test unit were supplied by R-Cushman of Detroit, Mich., but initial buyers may find the tried-and-true Dana Spicer axles that Skyjack used for many years. R-Cushman also produces the center drive that splits the power to the front and rear axles. As noted in Part One, Skyjack has turned to Nissan to supply the dual fuel engine, replacing the discontinued Ford. The Nissan H15 fuel-injected 1.5 liter engine is Tier III compliant. Fuel and ignition management are governed by a Zenith system.

 

Service and safety

Enlarge Image Image 2: To improve service life, relays have been moved from their location on the door to a sub-panel.

Simple electrical systems are Skyjack's motto. All wires remain consistently color- and number-coded. In addition, control relays on the 8243 have been mounted on a swing out sub-panel for improved service life. (See Image 2.) A light makes it easier to see what you're doing while working in this component box. Don't worry about draining the battery if you leave the light on because it times out after 20 minutes. Access to the engine is facilitated by a roll-out mounting tray; and Fiberglide™ bushings work in conjunction with plated pivot pins to provide extended operation without the need for lubrication. But the feature that best demonstrates the robustness of Skyjack RT scissor lifts is the swing-away steel guard that protects the front-mounted radiator. It is at least one-quarter inch thick.

Dual electric holding valves on the lift cylinders are just one of many safety features found on the 8243. In case of an electrical failure, the holding valves are located on isolated circuits. An auxiliary battery provides back-up power. If the platform is loaded beyond 1,000 pounds, a relief valve limits the lift function. If the machine is operated outside the parameters for levelness, an interlock cuts out lift. And an all motion audible and visual alarm on the chassis warns nearby workers of lift and travel movement. 

 

Operational impressions

The control box is equipped with a single joystick for manipulating both drive and lift operation. A key switch allows selection between the two functions. Once selected an enable button on the side of the box must be depressed in conjunction with moving the joystick for operation. Hinged steel guardrails fold to reduce the overall stowed height from 121 inches to a more manageable 92 inches. And the 64.5"x115.4" deck expands to 76 square feet with a 4'6” long extension.

  

Enlarge Image Image 3: Although the push bar works fine for extending the deck when the machine is new, another method might be better for accommodating debris build-up in the track.

A telescoping push bar is used for extending and retracting the deck. This system works fine when the rollers are new and clean, but from first-hand experience I know it is more of a struggle as debris collects in the track. In addition, the method for locking the deck extension in place is simple, but it can be a hassle if the deck isn't properly aligned. You must insert a long steel pin through a hole in the extension into the main deck.

 
The wet disc service parking brake fitted to the rear axle is spring-applied, hydraulically released. A hand pump releases the brake for winching and loading a unit. Although outriggers are optional, outrigger pockets are standard making field installations possible. 
 

Enlarge Image Image 4: Dual lift cylinders bridge 1st - 2nd and 4th • 5th scissor arms.

I felt nearly as secure at 43 feet in this stoutly built scissor lift as I do when standing on the ground. This exceptional stability is due in part to five sets of widely placed tubular steel X arms. (See Image 4.) Full displacement dual lift cylinders bridge the 1^st - 2^nd and 4^th  - 5^th scissor arms supporting the scissor stacks.

Enlarge Image Image 5: Spherical bearings increase seal life and electric holding valves provide a safety check.

The cylinders ride on spherical bearings, taking a lot of stress off the seals and reducing wear. (See Image 5.) Driving at full height felt equally secure, although I can assure you I looked for the flattest patch of asphalt that I could find.

 

Robust construction and many service friendly points are sure to put the cost of ownership of the 8243 at a minimum. Making the decision to buy a mid-size RT is even easier with a base list price of $54,800. Base price includes standard four-wheel drive, dual fuel or diesel engine, and the roll- out deck. You can also add hydraulic outriggers for $5,250.

 

Likes:

·         The 8243 has traction galore, exhibited by its performance in challenging terrain.

·         Operator-perceived stability is outstanding for a scissor lift of any size, let alone a mid-size model.

·         Service on this simply designed unit should be child's play for technicians.

 

Dislikes:

• The system for extending the deck drives me crazy.
• Inside turning radius of 147 inches is a bit wide for a mid-size scissor lift.

 

Verdict:

• With its corner on the mid-size RT scissor lift market, Skyjack does not waiver in its reputation for building robust, easy-to-service aerial platforms.