New load management system from Grove allows owners to upgrade older mobile cranes

• The upFLEX Rated Capacity Limiter (RCL) monitors lift activity to ensure a crane works within its rated capacity.
• Customers can directly replace their older iFLEX model with the new upFLEX to reap the benefits of proven older cranes, but also harness the latest technology.
• upFLEX was unveiled at CONEXPO 2026 and features a sleek, plug-and-play modern design.

Manitowoc is debuting a new aftermarket technology at CONEXPO CON/AGG 2026 that allows owners of older Grove mobile cranes to update to the latest lift management technology. The upFLEX Rated Capacity Limiter (RCL) is an improved version of the iFLEX RCL units currently featured on Grove rough-terrain and truck cranes built between 2002 and 2023.

It features a sleek, modern design with a 7 in. console and intuitive controls that enable the operator to cycle through working screens, operating modes, etc. The system works across a full range of Grove rough-terrain and truck cranes previously covered by older iFLEX models. This standardization brings consistency and efficiency to operators’ work. Installation is simplified, too, with the RCL connecting directly to the crane’s CAN-BUS via the on-board Ethernet. The system is truly plug-and-play, reducing installation hassle and benefiting operators by providing the same look and feel in an upgraded system.

“We’re excited to present the new upFLEX RCL at CONEXPO 2026. Owners can retrofit the unit to any Grove rough-terrain or truck crane built between 2002 and 2023, extending the life of their crane. Many crane owners seek to maximize the life of their cranes, and now they have the option to upgrade to the latest system in a fast and straightforward way,” said Mark Harlacher, director of sales & marketing for customer support at Manitowoc.

In addition to showing the new upFLEX RCL at CONEXPO 2026, Manitowoc also introduced its sister product, the APEX stand-alone indicator for wireless sensors. This technological add-on can be retrofitted to Grove cranes and provides a wireless connection to the crane’s anti-two-block sensor and wind speed sensor. The status of sensors is available to operators via a graphic display in the cab

The new upFLEX replaces the iFLEX5 (LI5G), iFLEX5 (CGMK), and iFLEX2 (LSQG). Customers interested in upgrading to the new upFLEX should contact their local dealer.

CONTACT

Chris Bratthauar    
Sr. Director Marketing
Manitowoc    
T +1 717 593 5348
chris.bratthauar@manitowoc.com