PCS08 Tracked Scissor Lift
- 8mMax. working height
- 6mMax. platform height
- 230kgLifting capacity
- –kgMachine weight
Tracked scissor lifts for soft, uneven and sensitive ground
Where wheels sink, slip or leave ruts, a tracked scissor lift keeps working. Platfon builds two crawler models, the PCS08 and PCS14; this page explains how tracks change the machine and which model fits which job.
PCS14 Tracked Scissor Lift
- 13.8mMax. working height
- 11.8mMax. platform height
- 318kgLifting capacity
- 3,380kgMachine weight
Compare models
| Model | Max. working height (m) | Max. platform height (m) | Lifting capacity (kg) | Machine weight (kg) | Max. persons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCS08 Tracked Scissor Lift | 8 | 6 | 230 | – | 2 |
| PCS14 Tracked Scissor Lift | 13.8 | 11.8 | 318 | 3,380 | 2 |
Tracks spread the loadA long track contact area lowers ground pressure compared with wheels, so the machine is less likely to sink into soft ground.
PCS08: compact, 8 m8 m (26.2 ft) working height and a 230 kg (507 lb) rated load on a chassis 0.96 m (38 in) wide.
PCS14: higher, 13.8 m13.8 m (45.3 ft) working height, 318 kg (701 lb) capacity and a 2.28 x 1.15 m (7.5 x 3.8 ft) platform.
Tilt protection on bothBoth models list emergency stop, emergency lowering, tilt protection and a safety bar among their features.
Tracks or wheels: what changes on a crawler scissor lift
A crawler scissor lift uses the same principle as any wheeled mobile elevating work platform of the scissor type, but the chassis sits on two continuous tracks instead of wheels. The tracks spread the weight over a much longer contact area, which lowers ground pressure and gives traction on grass, gravel, sand, mud and loose fill, where a slab machine would sink or spin.
Steering works differently too. A tracked machine turns by driving one track faster than the other, or in opposite directions to pivot on the spot. That makes it very maneuverable in tight spaces, but pivot turns can scuff polished or soft floors and tear turf, so plan wide turns or lay protection boards on sensitive surfaces.
Tracks are no excuse to elevate anywhere. Travel on gradients is limited by the rated gradeability, and the platform may only be raised on firm, level ground within the tilt limit. Both Platfon tracked models list tilt protection, which is there to warn the operator when the chassis is out of level.
Where crawler scissor lifts earn their place
Tracked scissors come into their own where ground conditions change during the job or cannot be prepared for wheeled machines. They also work on finished outdoor surfaces that wheels would rut, provided the track material suits the surface; ask about it when you request a quote.
Typical applications include:
- Landscaping, parks and grounds maintenance on grass and soft soil
- Construction sites with unfinished, muddy or gravel ground
- Outdoor event sites and showgrounds during build-up and dismantling
- Restoration and facade work in courtyards and around historic buildings
- Industrial yards, solar parks and agricultural buildings with uneven surfaces
Frequently asked questions
What is a tracked scissor lift?
A tracked scissor lift, also called a crawler scissor lift, is a scissor-type work platform mounted on continuous tracks instead of wheels. The tracks lower ground pressure and improve traction, so the machine can travel over soft, muddy or uneven ground. Once in position on firm, level ground, it raises its platform vertically like any other scissor machine.
Are tracks better than wheels on grass?
Generally, yes. Tracks spread the machine weight over a larger area, so they are less likely to sink or leave deep ruts in grass and soft soil. Pivot turns can still tear turf, so make gentle turns and lay ground protection mats on lawns that must stay intact. On firm concrete, a wheeled scissor is often quicker and simpler to use.
Can a crawler scissor lift work on slopes?
It can travel on gradients up to the rated gradeability given in the manual, which helps on sloping sites. Raising the platform is a different matter: the chassis must stand on firm ground within the tilt limit. The PCS08 and PCS14 list tilt protection to warn the operator, but choosing a level work position remains the operator's responsibility.
How wide is the PCS08?
The PCS08 Tracked Scissor Lift is 0.96 m (38 in) wide, 2.27 m (7.4 ft) long and 2.14 m (7.0 ft) high when stowed. That lets it pass through many garden gates, double doors and narrow site paths that a larger machine could not use. Measure the narrowest point of the route, including posts and hinges, before delivery.
Do tracked scissor lifts damage indoor floors?
They can if used carelessly. Tracks spread the load well, but pivot turns create friction that can scuff epoxy, polished concrete or timber, and some track materials mark light-colored floors. Plan routes with wide turns, use floor protection and ask which track type is fitted. Also check that the floor can carry the machine weight, which is 3,380 kg (7,452 lb) for the PCS14.
How do you transport a crawler scissor lift?
On a trailer or truck rated for its weight, loaded via ramps at a gradient the manual allows, and secured with chains or straps at the designated tie-down points. Only trained operators should drive the machine onto the vehicle, and the platform must be fully lowered during loading and transport. Confirm the weight of the model with Platfon before you book the vehicle.
Should I choose a tracked scissor or a tracked boom lift?
Choose the tracked scissor when the work is directly above the machine and you want a large, stable deck for two people and materials. Choose a tracked boom lift when you need to reach over obstacles or work high above a narrow access: the PSP18 Tracked Boom Lift offers 17.7 m (58.1 ft) working height on a chassis only 0.85 m (33 in) wide.
PCS08 and PCS14 in practice
PCS08: compact crawler for low-level work
The PCS08 has a 6 m (19.7 ft) platform height, 8 m (26.2 ft) working height and a 230 kg (507 lb) rated load for two persons. With its narrow chassis, it is the model for gardens, courtyards and site paths where a larger machine will not fit.
Its listed features include a descent alarm, emergency lowering and tilt protection, and its stowed height of 2.14 m (7.0 ft) helps under arches and through doorways.
PCS14: height and capacity on tracks
The PCS14 Tracked Scissor Lift lifts its 2.28 x 1.15 m (7.5 x 3.8 ft) platform to 11.8 m (38.7 ft), giving 13.8 m (45.3 ft) of working height with 318 kg (701 lb) capacity. That is the same height class as the wheeled PS-14 Scissor Lift, but on tracks for ground the PS-14 could not cross.
It lists overload protection as well as emergency stop, emergency lowering, tilt protection and a safety bar.
Undercarriage care
Tracks need attention that wheels do not. Check track tension, look for cuts, cracks and embedded stones, clean mud and debris out of the undercarriage after work, and inspect rollers and sprockets at the intervals in the manual.
Worn or slack tracks reduce traction and can come off during turns, so treat them as a safety item rather than a cosmetic one.
Safe working on soft ground
Soft ground can change during a shift, especially after rain. Re-check the work position before raising the platform, keep away from trench edges and embankments, and never rely on the tracks to make up for ground that cannot support the machine.
As with every MEWP, operators need training and familiarization on the model, and a person on the ground must know how to use the emergency lowering function.
Other options in the range
If the ground is firm but uneven and you need more height or capacity, the 4WD diesel scissor lift PRT18D reaches 17.95 m (58.9 ft) with 680 kg (1,500 lb).
For smooth indoor floors, the wheeled models in the scissor lift range are usually quicker to drive and position.
Working on soft or uneven ground?
Describe the ground, the access width and the working height you need. Platfon will advise whether the PCS08 or PCS14 suits the job and send a quote.