Grove’s timeless reliability: The legacy of the TM150

• A Grove TM150, purchased in 1980, has provided over 40 years of reliable service to Namibia’s construction and crane hire industry.
• Despite its age, the crane remains operational, a symbol of the enduring quality and reliability of Grove equipment.

A classic Grove crane continues to showcase its reliability more than 40 years after its delivery back in 1980. The Grove TM150 Full Hydraulic Truck Crane, affectionately known as Grietjie by its longtime owner, has been a steadfast performer in Namibia’s construction and crane hire industry for decades.

Originally acquired by Transplant Namibia the crane was used for lifting operations around Walvis Bay, including the local harbor. Its robust build and practical design made it an ideal fit for these routine tasks.

In 1988, the Guttzeit family, which owns local Windhoek Hire Sales & Services began renting the crane from Transplant Namibia and were so impressed with the performance that they eventually decided to purchase it to expand the growing equipment rental fleet. It became a cornerstone of the company’s crane hire business, primarily used for small steel erection projects in Windhoek.

The TM150’s straightforward and durable design ensured easy maintenance and upkeep. Thanks to its rugged GM two-stroke engine—renowned for its reliability—the crane required minimal servicing, with spare parts readily available through local suppliers. The TM150’s purely mechanical design meant that repairs were straightforward, with parts either fabricated or sourced as needed. The crane’s simplicity made it both a pleasure to operate and effortless to maintain, reinforcing Grove’s reputation for reliability.

After decades of dependable service, Grietjie retired at the Old Wheelers Club in Windhoek, where she would remain as a tribute to her legacy and the enduring strength of Grove cranes. Before her final journey, a few checks were made—refueling, oil checks, and a new battery—and with just two cranks, she came back to life, making her way to her final resting place.

Joerg Guttzeit, member of Windhoek Hire Sales & Services shares: 
“Grietjie served us faithfully over the years and remained loyal whenever we needed her. Even today, she remains functional, with only minor wear on the ring gear components. Thank you, Grove, for building such a remarkable crane—it’s been a privilege to operate.”
Today, Grietjie continues to perform light duties, where she remains a symbol of reliability and the enduring quality of Grove cranes.

CONTACT

Elena Morozova    
Marketing Manager, Middle East, Africa and CIS
Manitowoc    
T +971 4 886 2677
elena.morozova@manitowoc.com