Altec Inc

Category: Lights & Signs

Financing Altec Teupen Equipment is Easy with Altec Capital

Posted on by sstewart

Altec Teupen TC89AJplus spider lift

Altec Teupen equipment is the ideal choice for aerial working platforms. These spider lifts provide easy operation, compact design and superior stability, ensuring safe and efficient work at height in a wide range of models. Altec Teupen backyard aerials are engineered to deliver exceptional safety, reliability and efficiency for tree care, construction and facilities maintenance applications. All models are equipped with stable platforms and can fit through a standard single or double doorway.

Select Altec Teupen inventory is listed online. Contact your account manager for a wider selection of available equipment and more information. If you don’t have an Altec account manager, contact us here or call 800-958-2555.

Making the Right Financing Decision for Your Altec Teupen Equipment

Financing plays a key role in selecting Altec Teupen equipment for your fleet. Altec Capital can provide tailored solutions for your equipment, helping you preserve cash, manage technology lifecycles and maximize ROI. Altec Capital’s customized financing options, such as fair market value leases and a $1 Purchase Option, can cover up to 100% of your equipment acquisition costs. Even if you have no idea where to start, Altec Capital is ready make financing your equipment an easy process and can guide you every step of the way.

Finance with the Team that Knows Your Altec Teupen Equipment Best

At Altec Capital, we listen and understand our customers’ needs in order to get the best financing option. As the original equipment manufacturer, Altec Capital combines a deep expertise in Altec Teupen products with a commitment to building the right solution for each customer. We give you a single point of contact and a simplified process, and we take the time to understand your business goals and budget needs, crafting personalized solutions that support long-term growth.

When you work with Altec, you’re not just getting custom financing — you’re getting everything you need to get the job done right. We provide the resources to manage and maintain your fleet with access to service, rentals, tools and accessories, industry-leading training and more. With Altec, you get everything you need for your equipment — from purchase to disposition — all in one place.

Getting started with Altec Capital is a simple process that can be completely digital, eliminating the need for a bank visit to submit an application. Apply online at alteccapital.com or email finance@altec.com to get started.

 

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

Next‑Generation Fleet Performance Starts with Op‑Ready Reports for JEMS

Posted on by sstewart

Image of Altec Op-Ready Reports for JEMS on a MacBook computer

Op-Ready Reports for JEMS S/SE/LE and BG are now available. Op-Ready adds operational readiness and event notification capabilities to JEMS assets, helping fleets identify certain performance event conditions that can impact productivity and reliability.

By combining data from telematics and Altec equipment to identify events that could impact job readiness, Op-Ready addresses issues today to prevent downtime tomorrow.

What Are Op-Ready Reports for JEMS?

Jobsite Energy Management System (JEMS) eliminates unnecessary engine idling at the jobsite by using lithium-ion batteries to power the electric power-takeoff (ePTO), auxiliary chassis applications and jobsite tools.

Op-Ready helps fleets focus on productivity and reliability by tracking chassis, unit and JEMS data, then transmitting the events that require attention.

Op-Ready Reports are customizable, so you can focus on what matters for your fleet. You can configure reports to summarize the entire fleet, a subgroup of assets or a single unit. Report recipients are configurable, too, so the right people see the correct information at the right time to keep equipment up and running.

What Productivity Challenges Do Fleet Managers Face?

Unplanned downtime remains a consistent challenge for fleet managers working to keep equipment up and running. Unnecessary idling at the jobsite can also inhibit productivity and increase costs. On a normal day on the jobsite, trucks sit and idle for hours, which burns through fuel and adds wear and tear to engines. Idling at the jobsite for just one hour is the equivalent of driving 33 miles.* Accurate jobsite performance data is a piece of the puzzle to increase productivity, but fleet managers must be able to implement actionable insights from this information.

How Op-Ready Reports for JEMS and Altec Insights Work Together to Increase Productivity

The Altec Insights for JEMS page helps you get more out of your JEMS fleet and includes the following features:

  • Track fuel savings and identify missed opportunities for savings
  • Compare anti-idle hours with total jobsite hours by individual asset or fleet
  • Receive quarterly and annual reports with clear utilization insights
  • View a list with metrics to identify high- and low-performing JEMS assets
  • Monitor JEMS Vehicle Status near real time

Altec Insights for JEMS also supports remote diagnostics using data directly from the jobsite. You can view Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and Vehicle Status alerts to better understand equipment from wherever you are located. Diagnostic Trouble Codes provide fault information, including severity, potential impact, and cause, as well as a recommendation. This data provides quick remote troubleshooting, helping you potentially avoid unnecessary service calls.

Op-Ready for JEMS fits alongside JEMS and JEMS Insights by adding scheduled event notifications tied to key battery faults, override engagement, and much more. Op-Ready helps fleets build earlier awareness, enabling teams to respond sooner, and supports JEMS battery health and longevity through battery and override event notifications and related guidance within the Insights context.

Learn More About JEMS

*Edison Electric Institute (EEI); Transportation Electrification; Utility Fleets Leading the Charge, June 2014.

Not Just for Altec Trucks — Altec Capital is Your One-Stop Shop for Equipment Financing

Posted on by sstewart

In today’s fast-paced, competitive landscape, businesses need flexible financing solutions that adapt with their evolving equipment needs. Whether expanding your fleet, replacing aging assets or financing specialized equipment—and whether you’re financing Altec equipment or equipment from another manufacturer—Altec Capital has a solution for you.

Why Altec Capital?

We realize you have many options when it comes to financing equipment, so at Altec Capital, we listen and understand our customers’ needs in order to get the best financing option. And when you work with Altec, you’re not just getting custom financing—you’re getting everything you need to get the job done right. We provide the resources to manage and maintain your fleet with access to service, rentals, tools and accessories, industry-leading training and more. With Altec, you get everything you need for your equipment—from purchase to disposition—all in one place.

Non-Altec Equipment Support

Although our core business at Altec Capital is financing Altec products, we also finance light duty fleets and a variety of other equipment types, including transmission units, distribution units, tree care equipment, and cranes. Many of our customers use Altec Capital to finance yellow iron equipment and other non-Altec products. We go beyond traditional original equipment manufacturer financing to support a wide range of machinery and manufacturers, allowing customers to diversify their fleet with financial confidence.

Customized Financing Options

We take the time to understand your business goals and operational challenges, crafting personalized solutions that support long-term growth. Whether it’s looking at the lowest cost of capital, income statements or service needs, our finance group can help you find a leasing option that works best for you. Our flexibility makes it easier to get your equipment into the field, improving your cash flow.

Hear about how Joe Pipitone at Top Notch Tree Care worked with Altec Capital to build a custom financing solution for his business.

Streamlined Communications

Say goodbye to juggling multiple lenders and banking relationships. With Altec Capital, you get a single point of contact and a simplified process for all equipment financing needs—saving you valuable time. Our team will work with you to reduce the administrative pains associated with financing equipment. Additionally, our innovative e-signature and web-based application process offers a user-friendly online experience.

A Partner You Can Count On

At Altec Capital, our commitment goes far beyond the transaction. We work closely with each customer to build financial strategies that align with their unique needs and future plans. With business consultants located throughout the United States and Canada, Altec Capital can mobilize our resources to accelerate results and leverage our alliances and partnerships to help deliver innovative solutions.

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

*All transactions are subject to credit approval. Some restrictions may apply.

Winter-Ready Essentials for Linemen — Prepare for Cold Weather with Altec Supply

Posted on by sstewart


As we move deeper into the coldest season of the year, winter weather will only intensify. It’s important that your trucks and your crew are ready for low temperatures, snow, sleet and ice.

In addition to ensuring operators are prepared to set up safely in icy conditions and are aware of safety tips for cold weather, it’s essential your fleet is equipped with the right cold-gear tools for linemen. We’ve compiled our top Altec Supply products for cold weather so that you’re fully prepared for the winter months.

What Do Linemen Wear in Winter Weather?

Braving extreme conditions is part of the job—and the winter season is no exception. Outfitting your team with the proper cold gear for linemen will help protect them from the elements, keep them comfortably warm and empower them to do the job efficiently.

Warm Jackets for Linemen

The VBBQCL3L Hi-Visibility Two-Tone Bomber Jacket is a bomber-style jacket that keeps linemen and crew members warm with its inner quilted liner and drawstring hood. It features a bright fluorescent lime background color for daytime high visibility and silver reflective stripes for low light visibility. The two front pockets and inner pockets offer storage for belongings like gloves and hand tools.

Winter Hats for Linemen

Part of Milwaukee®’s WORKSKIN™ lineup, this Cold-Weather Hard Hat Liner handles the demands of hard work in cold conditions. Its durable, long-lasting fabric provides insulation while resisting pilling and fighting odor. Optimized to be used with hard hats, this hard hat liner’s fast wicking materials move moisture away from the body’s high-sweat areas to avoid dampness, cold and freezing, helping linemen work dry and stay warm.

Winter Gloves for Linemen

MCR Safety’s ForceFlex® Insulated Mechanics Gloves offer the perfect combination of warmth, maneuverability and safety for cold weather. These gloves include D3O® technology in both the palm and back for impact protection with a thin profile. Along with a design that offers enhanced grip in wet conditions, the slip-on inner elastic snow/ice cuff and the Thinsulate® insulation keep linemen’s hands warm and protected.

What Do Linemen Need to Keep Trucks Warm?

In addition to keeping warm by wearing the right cold gear, the right truck accessories are essential for keeping linemen comfortable and safe in cold weather. An Assembled Bucket Heater is a simple addition to your trucks and keeps linemen warm even in a job exposed to the elements. Vinyl bucket covers and/or rigid bucket covers can keep snow and ice out of bucket trucks, as well. Having Low-Viscosity, Anti-Wear Hydraulic Fluid for Cold Climates on hand is also important to keep equipment up and running.

Winterize Your Truck with Altec Supply

Altec Supply is ready to provide you with everything you need to prepare your team and your fleet for the cold months ahead. Shop our online store, contact your Altec Supply account manager or call 1-877-GO ALTEC (1-877-462-5832) for all winter-ready essentials.

Safety First: Setting Up in Icy Conditions

Posted on by kphillips

As the seasons shift from the crisp comfort of fall to the harsh bite of winter, icy conditions become a serious challenge for crews working with aerial units and digger derricks. What was a routine setup in October can become a high-risk operation by December.

Icy terrain demands extra attention. Operators must take the time to ensure proper setup procedures are followed as rushing can lead to instability, equipment damage or worse.

Set Up Safely

One of the most critical steps? Using outrigger pads. These pads help distribute weight and improve stability, especially on frozen or uneven ground.

Here’s a question for you: Do you know the slope limit for setting up an aerial unit?

Most operators would say 5 degrees, and in many cases, that’s correct. But not always. Some units are only rated for 2 or 3 degrees of slope to meet stability requirements. That’s why it’s essential to check the manual and slope limitation for each individual unit before setup. And digger derricks? We want to level the derrick completely.

As winter approaches, let’s stay ahead of the weather and the risks. Take the time to properly set up your equipment. Chock your vehicles. Use the outrigger pads. Know your slope limits.

Safety at the job site starts with proper unit setup.

Stay Safe with Training from Altec Sentry

For nearly 20 years, Altec Sentry has helped employers train and certify Altec equipment operators on safe and proper operation. Altec Sentry is committed to your safety and believe that industry-leading equipment deserves industry-leading training.

Altec Sentry offers a variety of instructor-led and online training courses for aerials, derricks and cranes. For customers looking to take ownership of their safety program, Sentry also offers a Train the Trainer program. To learn more, visit altec.com/safety.

Save on Year-End Equipment in 2025 with Accelerated Tax Deductions

Posted on by sstewart

The end of the year is fast approaching. Now is a great time to take advantage of powerful tax tools that can help you save money while investing in your business: Section 168(k), also referred to as Bonus Depreciation, and Section 179. These sections offer significant tax incentives to promote business growth, allowing you to upgrade equipment while enjoying substantial savings.

Below, learn more about these important tax-saving tools and how qualifying purchases can benefit your business. Qualifying purchases include financed equipment that is placed in service on or before Dec. 31, 2025.

Need assistance with your tax strategy for equipment purchases? Our knowledgeable team at Altec Capital is ready to help. Contact us today.

Save with Section 179

Popular among small- and medium-sized businesses, Section 179 allows businesses to immediately expense qualifying equipment in the year of acquisition. This allowance creates a larger initial deduction and reduces a business’s tax burden in the year the equipment is placed in service.

The maximum amount Section 179 allows for 2025 is $2.5 million on qualified purchases of $4 million. Section 179 is reduced dollar for dollar when the total amount of equipment purchased exceeds $4 million, hitting zero at $6.5 million of qualifying purchases. In addition, an income limitation limits a business’s Section 179 expense to taxable income, not allowing Section 179 expense to create a tax loss.

If these limits impact your business’s ability to use Section 179, you may still qualify for Bonus Depreciation.

Section 168(k): Bonus Depreciation

With recent changes in tax law, bonus depreciation continues to offer significant advantages for capital expenditure planning. Businesses can now expense 100% of the cost of qualified assets acquired and placed in service after Jan. 19, 2025, helping reduce taxable income and improve cash flow.

For property acquired and placed in service between Jan. 1-19, 2025, the applicable bonus depreciation rate is 40%.

How Much Money Could You Save?

Section 179 and Section 168(k) are valuable tools for businesses seeking to reduce their tax liabilities and invest in growth. To ensure you make the most of these opportunities, it is essential to work with tax professionals who can help you navigate the complexities and confirm your businesses eligibility.

Below, see hypothetical savings possible when utilizing these code sections as compared to normal depreciation.

A chart illustrating the hypothetical savings possible when utilizing Section 179 and Section 168(k) code sections as compared to normal depreciation

*Assume the equipment in the above example was acquired and placed in service after Jan. 19, 2025. The calculations above are not intended to provide tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax advisor.

Ready to Learn More? Contact Altec Capital Today

If you’re interested in applying these tax benefits to your purchases, our knowledgeable finance experts at Altec Capital are ready to help you find the best options to achieve significant savings.

Altec Capital offers deferrals of up to 90 days, aggressive financing rates and a variety of lease options. Altec Capital’s focus is meeting customers’ unique equipment financing needs. Most importantly, financing with Altec Capital is easy. Altec Capital offers a single source solution for all your financing needs, which means no more managing multiple banking relationships.

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

Back to School, Back to Safety

Posted on by kphillips

As yellow buses roll out and kids head back to the classroom, parents everywhere are stocking up on pencils, folders and backpacks. It’s back-to-school season! While students are preparing for a successful school year, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your crews for a safe and productive hurricane season. Check out these tips from Altec Sentry to make sure your crews are set for success.

Just as students need the right tools to succeed, operators of bucket trucks, digger derricks and cranes need their own “school supplies.” While so many are out shopping for binders and calculators, don’t forget to make sure your team is stocked with the supplies needed to operator equipment safely: outrigger pads, wheel chocks, gloves and other essential safety gear.

Make a List

As you might be checking off a school supply list, consider creating a storm safety checklist. Use the following questions to get started:

  • Do we have enough outrigger pads for stability in the field?
  • Are the wheel chocks in good condition and ready for action?
  • Have the gloves seen one too many battles with burrs and bolts?

Think about it like this—without a pencil, a student can’t take a test, just like a bucket truck without chocks can’t even start the job. Students prepare for pop quizzes and tests; your crews prepare for weather swings and complicated lifts. Both require preparation, attention and the right tools for the job.

Don’t Ignore the Rules

Remember those school rules?

  • No running in the hall
  • Raise your hand before speaking
  • Do your homework

Now is the time to ensure you have the right rules in place for your team’s safety:

  • No rushing unit set up
  • Communicate clearly with your crew before starting the job
  • Complete your pre-travel and pre-operational inspections

Be Prepared with Altec Sentry

A well-prepared operator, like a well-prepared student, can handle challenges with confidence. So before the storms arrive, double-check equipment readiness, review safety procedures and ensure your “classroom” in the field is set for success. Let’s keep both our kids and our crews safe, equipped and ready to handle whatever fall and storm season bring.

Keeping crews safe on the job is important to us. For nearly 20 years, Altec Sentry has helped employers train and certify Altec equipment operators on safe and proper operation. We are committed to your safety and believe that industry-leading equipment deserves industry-leading training. That’s exactly what Altec Sentry provides.

Altec Insights for JEMS: Smarter Anti-Idle Starts Here 

Posted on by kphillips
Image of Altec Insights for JEMS dashboard on a Mac desktop computer.

Image of Altec Insights for JEMS dashboard on a Mac desktop computer.

How much time is your fleet spending idling unnecessarily at the jobsite? How much is that costing you in fuel and emissions? How can you eliminate unnecessary jobsite expenses and harmful tailpipe emissions and improve jobsite safety?

Altec’s Jobsite Energy Management System eliminates unnecessary engine idling at the jobsite by using lithium-ion batteries to power the electric power-takeoff (ePTO) and auxiliary chassis applications. With Altec Insights for JEMS, you can take your fleet’s JEMS performance even further.

Altec Insights for JEMS puts actionable information at your fingertips, helping you understand performance and identify corrective actions to maximize JEMS utilization. Integrated into Altec Connect, Altec Insights for JEMS replaces the former JEMS Connect dashboard. These insights give you visibility into utilization, fuel savings and other important metrics, as well as access to remote diagnostics across your entire JEMS fleet.

Maximize JEMS Utilization

Altec Insights for JEMS delivers metrics you need to optimize your JEMS fleet. In the easy-to-use dashboard, you can:

  • Track fuel savings and identify missed opportunities for savings.
  • Compare anti-idle hours with total jobsite hours by individual asset or fleet.
  • Receive quarterly and annual reports with clear utilization insights.
  • View a list with metrics to identify high and low performing JEMS assets.

Remote Diagnostics

Using data directly from the jobsite, Altec Insights for JEMS allows you to view Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Vehicle Status alerts to better understand your equipment from wherever you are.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes provide easy to understand fault information including severity, potential impact and cause, as well as a recommendation, so you can troubleshoot remotely and potentially avoid unnecessary service calls.

Altec Insights for JEMS also helps maximize battery health and longevity with battery and override event notifications, as well as suggested corrective actions.

Get a Picture of Your Entire JEMS Fleet

Altec Insights for JEMS allows you to get a clear picture of your entire JEMS fleet so you can make decisions backed by jobsite data, maximize your fleet savings and optimize JEMS performance. To learn more, visit altec.com/JEMS or contact us today.

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What are the Benefits of Financing with Altec Capital Instead of a Bank?

Posted on by kphillips

Financing equipment with a bank can often be a tricky and lengthy process. If you’re looking for an easier way to finance, Altec Capital is here to streamline that process and get your equipment to you and in the field as soon as possible.

Our finance and equipment teams are expertly trained to help you decide which option will help benefit you and your business the most. Below, check out the key benefits of financing your equipment with Altec Capital.

KEY BENEFITS
  • Streamlined communication
  • OEM understanding of your equipment and industry
  • Finance additional services in one payment
  • Flexible options and terms to help you maximize your fleet

Streamlined Communication with a Single Source

Altec Capital makes financing simple by channeling all of your information and communications directly to our team. Unlike working with your local bank, at Altec, everything from your initial inquiry to your application and your lease documents can be filled out and signed online.

Tim Tavel, PowerGrid’s Vice President, says Altec Capital has made financing equipment easy for his company.

“I gave them all the requested information and they took care of everything else we needed,” Tavel said. “It’s hard to find a service like that anywhere else.”

No One Knows Your Equipment like the OEM

As the original equipment manufacturer, Altec provides a direct advantage to customers financing your equipment. Because we build the equipment you purchase, we are able to best understand the ins and outs of your business and the value your assets bring to it. In addition to this, our equipment experts can recommend services and maintenance based on the build of your equipment.

Jeffrey Schneider, Manager of Transportation at Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, has been working with Altec Capital for a decade. For Schneider, a constant is Altec Capital’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence.

“The people at Altec Capital are what make the difference,” Schneider said. “It’s nice to be able to have open conversations and know everything will be taken care of.”

Add the Extras to Complete Your Fleet

Not only does Altec directly provide your equipment and financing, but we also offer many other services that span the life of your equipment. Altec is here to support you every step of the way with service, rental, financing, safety training, tools, parts, fleet management and more. To make billing easier, our fleet management services can be included in your monthly lease payment, allowing you to make a single payment to a single source each month.

This includes:

  • Altec Service: The industry’s most extensive fleet of mobile service vehicles and technicians covering both the entire United States and parts of Canada
  • Altec Sentry: Our safety training organization that offers OSHA and ANSI-certified training options
  • Altec Supply: A one-stop shop for ordering tools, supplies, accessories, replacement parts and more for your bucket truck or boom truck crane
  • Altec Fleet Services: Proven fleet management solutions and digital products such as Altec Connect that focus on the objectives most important to you: safety, compliance, performance and economics

Flexible Financing Options and Terms

Overall, financing with Altec Capital provides many advantages for any customer that purchase, rent or lease equipment. Our unmatched flexibility makes it easier to get your trucks into the field, improving your cash flow. We also offer a variety of lease options, allowing you to choose the financing option that makes the most sense for your business.

For more information on Altec Capital’s financing options, call (888) 408-8148 or email finance@altec.com.

Warm Weather Equipment Maintenance Tips

Posted on by kphillips

As the seasons change, it’s time to prepare your fleet for warm weather. Depending on the climate your unit operates in, seasonal adjustments may be needed to ensure your equipment functions efficiently. Use the equipment maintenance tips below from Altec’s Service Training Team to make sure your bucket trucks, digger derricks, cranes and other equipment is running safety for springtime.

Hydraulic Fluid

Hydraulic fluid viscosity thickens in cold weather and thins as it warms up. It’s important to ensure your hydraulic fluid levels are appropriate for summer conditions.
“Always make sure the proper oil is used. When in doubt, consult the manual or call tech support for guidance,” said Jeff Hodges, Altec service trainer.

The unit’s filtration system should be checked to ensure hydraulic fluid can flow freely. Filters should be changed at regular intervals.

“Per the Altec Maintenance Manual, the return line filter should be changed every 6 months,” Hodges said. “Always check the screen at the top of the reservoir for foreign objects.”

Cooling Systems

Summer heat can put a strain on your unit’s cooling system. In addition to checking filters, make sure cooling system components are clean and working properly.

“If it has an oil cooler you need to make sure the oil cooler itself is clean for proper airflow and cooling,” Hodges said.

Spring Cleaning

Keeping your equipment clean is crucial for optimal performance. Dirt and debris can accumulate over time leading to potential issues.

“Always check inside the boom for birds’ nests and critters,” Hodges said. “It’s important for dielectric integrity and safety to prevent thermal events during dielectric testing.”

Check Your Altec Maintenance Manual

Units should be maintained using the Altec Maintenance Manual to ensure testing and procedures are completed at recommended intervals. The Preventive Maintenance Checklist can be found in the back of every Altec Maintenance Manual.

Get Support from Altec’s Service Maintenance Training Team

Altec provides Service Maintenance Training to our customers to keep crews safe and reduce downtime. Our extensive training options are designed to help your mechanics gain equipment and preventive maintenance knowledge to maintain your fleet safely and effectively. You can choose between a variety of instructor-led, webinar and online training options. Contact our team here, or get more information on 2025 training below.

Training Overview
2025 Training Catalog
2025 Schedule

Safety Spring Cleaning: Tidy Up Your Training Records and Equipment Essentials

Posted on by kphillips

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, spring is the perfect time to reset. Spring cleaning should go beyond dusting off shelves—it’s also an opportunity to ensure your safety systems, training records, and essential equipment are in top shape for the busy season ahead. Use these spring cleaning equipment safety tips from Altec Sentry to get your fleet refreshed for the season.

Clean Up Your Training Records

Training compliance isn’t just about checking boxes. It’s a critical component of workplace safety and operational readiness. Now is a great time to:

  • Review Certification Expirations. Ensure all team members are current on their required training. Check for any upcoming expirations and schedule refresher courses early.
  • Audit Your Documentation. Are your records accurate, accessible, and complete? An organized training file helps demonstrate compliance and ensures readiness for audits or inspections.
  • Onboard New Hires Properly. Spring often brings new projects and additional staffing. Make sure every new employee completes their safety and equipment training before getting to work.

Remember, Altec Sentry’s operator training programs help employers satisfy their OSHA and ANSI equipment training requirements.

Re-Evaluate Your Equipment: Chocks and Outrigger Pads

While you’re reviewing records, don’t forget to inspect the physical tools that help keep crews safe. Two of the most overlooked, but absolutely essential, items on any vehicle are wheel chocks and outrigger pads.

  • Wheel Chocks: These small but mighty tools are a frontline defense against vehicle rollaways. Every vehicle should be equipped with the proper chocks, and operators should know how and when to use them.
  • Outrigger Pads: These pads must be used on asphalt, unpaved surfaces, and soft surfaces. They provide a stable base for vehicles with outriggers, distributing weight evenly and reducing the risk of tipping or ground instability. Just like with chocks, each vehicle should be stocked with the right outrigger pads for the job and terrain.

This spring, take time to answer these questions:

  • Are chocks and outrigger pads in place and in good condition?
  • Are they stored properly and easily accessible?
  • Do all team members know how to use them correctly?

A Safer Season Starts with Preparation

Spring cleaning isn’t just about a tidy shop—it’s about a safer, more efficient work environment. Keeping your training up to date and your equipment inspection-ready can prevent incidents, protect your crew, and keep your operations running smoothly.

Need help with training records or equipment checklists? Altec Sentry is here to support your safety goals. Let’s make this season your safest one yet.

Ready to get your safety program in shape for spring? Log into Altec Connect and Sentry Online today to review training records, assign refresher courses, and ensure your team is prepared. Need additional training or equipment support? Contact our team. We’re here to help you build a safer, more compliant operation from the ground up.

Let’s make this your safest season yet—start your safety spring cleaning with Altec Sentry.

Buy Used Equipment with Confidence: 5 Questions to Ask

Posted on by kphillips

Used electric utility, telecom and tree care equipment can make a great addition to your fleet. It can come at a significantly lower price than new equipment, making it a cost-effective solution for some buyers, and it doesn’t carry the lead times of new equipment. However, buying the wrong piece of used equipment can lead to snowballing costs and quickly become a major headache.

When buying used, how do you know you’re getting a good deal? More importantly, how do you know you’re getting a reliable piece of equipment that brings value to your fleet? Next time you’re shopping for used electric utility, telecom or tree care equipment, use the questions below from Altec NUECO to make sure you’re getting the right unit for your fleet.

    • Is this the right piece of equipment for the job?
    • How old is the truck?
    • How was the truck maintained?
    • Who are you buying from?
    • Is there a warranty?

Is this the right piece of equipment for the job?

Consider the application you’ll be using the machine for. Is it within the capacity of the machine? If you anticipate that you’ll find yourself regularly working near a machine’s maximum reach or capacity, it may be worth considering another model. Conversely, a smaller machine also has benefits if it fits the application.

Everyone loves a good deal, but even the best deal doesn’t matter if the machine you purchase isn’t the right piece of equipment for the job.

How old is the truck?

The age of the truck is certainly a large factor when purchasing used equipment—and it can impact more things than you might initially expect.

Most obviously, the age of the truck will play a large part in its condition, but it can also impact serviceability. Before purchasing, be sure to inquire about service support and parts availability as some OEMs may have discontinued support of dated models.

How was the truck maintained?

While you won’t always know the previous owner of your equipment, how well a unit was maintained plays a large role in its value. A seller may not have or be able to release specifics on the previous owner’s service history, but they should be able to give you an accurate assessment of the condition of the vehicle and equipment.

Some retailers also offer reconditioning and inspection processes so you can be confident you’re getting high-quality equipment. Altec NUECO offers Altec certified pre-owned equipment, which undergoes extensive inspection, repair and reconditioning. From day one, you can put these units to work knowing you can get the job done safely and efficiently.

Who are you buying from?

Different used equipment vendors offer different types of equipment and value to the customer. Equipment purchased from an auction is often sold as-is but may be available at a lower price point with a convenient buying format. Equipment sold by dealers typically undergoes some level of reconditioning and service to get the equipment in retail-ready shape.

Used equipment sold through the OEM, such as Altec NUECO, will generally offer the most extensive reconditioning and certification, such as the Altec certified pre-owned program. Altec NUECO also sells select equipment as-is for customers who need equipment quickly at a lower price point.

Is there a warranty?

When buying used equipment, a warranty can give you the confidence to buy and protect your purchase. Make sure to inquire about the specifics of a seller’s warranty program, including duration, what is covered and what is not. Altec Certified Pre-Owned units come with a 30-day warranty to protect your purchase and give you the confidence to buy.

Buy Used Equipment with Confidence

When you’re ready to buy used, keep the questions above handy so you can shop and buy with confidence and consider purchasing from Altec NUECO.

Altec NUECO specializes in used bucket trucks, used digger derrick trucks, used crane trucks, used telecom equipment and used parts for these vehicles. For more information on buying from Altec NUECO,  contact us today  or check out our available inventory.

View Our Inventory

Vehicle Status and DTCs Now Available for JEMS

Posted on by kphillips
Image of JEMS charging indicator

Image of JEMS charging indicator

As connected vehicle technology continues to evolve, more equipment data is available than ever before. While that data has traditionally been used for historical reporting, JEMS Connect can help you get ahead of the curve and use that data to identify and prevent future downtime.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes and Vehicle Status are the latest feature enhancements in JEMS Connect. These features allow you access to real-time diagnostics and insights that could impact JEMS performance and remote troubleshooting to identify, address, and resolve issues remotely.

Vehicle Status

Vehicle Status is a valuable tool for supporting crews in the field. Vehicle Status information allows for easy remote trouble shooting and provides you with an overview of truck functions to reduce downtime and mitigate nuisance unit down calls.

For example, Vehicle Status could alert you that the JEMS Disconnect is active, preventing the system from engaging. Viewing this status remotely allows you to skip the service call and get your crew back to work.

DTCs

Unit DTCs provide details on potential unit faults. For example, a Low Battery DTC can alert you to a unit that has not been charged. This could indicate that the unit has not been plugged in for an extended period of time, which is not ideal for JEMS performance or battery life.

Together, Vehicle Status and DTCs allow you to get a full view of your equipment from where you are and identify any easily resolved errors.

View Vehicle Status and DTCs Today

Vehicle Status and DTCs are available in JEMS Connect. To view, navigate to the unit, select analytics and view the DTC Log or Vehicle Status tabs.

To begin viewing Vehicle Status and DTCs in your JEMS Connect account, you may have to apply a firmware update to your unit. Fleets can use their AXIS service tool to easily apply the firmware upgrade while at the truck. JEMS units completed after February 1 already have the latest firmware applied. For more information on this firmware upgrade, contact 1-877-GO-ALTEC.

About JEMS

Altec’s Jobsite Energy Management System, or JEMS, provides a method to eliminate idling and reduce noise at the jobsite while still offering customers the benefits of a traditional chassis operation when needed.

Without having to idle the engine at the jobsite, JEMS delivers battery power to auxiliary chassis applications such as cab comfort AC and heat, jobsite tools and electric power take-off (ePTO) for operation of the aerial device. When JEMS is activated, a vehicle produces zero jobsite emissions with zero reduction in performance.

Reaffirming Your Commitment to Safety: A New Year’s Resolution

Posted on by kphillips

2025 offers a fresh start—a time to reflect, reset, and renew commitments to the principles that guide us. For Altec equipment users, this is an ideal moment to reaffirm the importance of and commitment to safety. With the inherent risks of the industry, a comprehensive and renewed focus on safety not only ensures the well-being of employees but also supports reliable service for customers. Below, see tips from Altec Sentry that you can leverage the New Year to strengthen your organization’s safety culture.

Unified Commitment: From Leadership to Operators

Safety must be a universal priority, embraced at every level of the organization. Leadership sets the tone by modeling a commitment to safety, demonstrating that it is a core value rather than a mere checkbox. When executives and managers prioritize safety in their communications, decisions, and actions, it fosters a culture where employees feel empowered to do the same.

Operators play a critical role in daily safety practices. Encouraging operators to participate in safety discussions and initiatives builds a sense of shared responsibility. This collaborative approach ensures that safety becomes ingrained in every task, from routine operations to complex projects.

Refreshing Equipment Safety Practices

The start of a new year is an excellent time to revisit and refresh essential safety protocols—particularly those involving equipment safety. Bucket trucks, digger derricks, and cranes are vital to the industry but also present significant risks if not operated safely. Operators should be encouraged to adopt a renewed mindset toward:

  • Inspections: Regular pre-trip and pre-operation inspections can identify potential hazards before they escalate.
  • Defensive Driving: Operators should focus on situational awareness, adherence to traffic laws, and anticipation of potential risks.
  • Proper Set Up: Ensuring that all equipment is properly set up at the jobsite contributes towards safe operation.
  • Safe Lifting Practices: Conduct inspections of your unit’s winch rope and rigging components as they are often overlooked. Consult load charts and plan your lifts!

Providing targeted training sessions or workshops on these topics can help operators sharpen their skills and maintain a proactive approach to safety.

Open Door Policy for Questions and Concerns

A culture of safety thrives when employees feel comfortable voicing their concerns and seeking clarity. Establishing and reinforcing an open-door policy allows operators to bring forward questions, report near-misses, and suggest improvements without fear of retribution. This transparency not only builds trust but also enables organizations to identify and address potential risks before they result in incidents.

Moving Forward Together

As the calendar turns, organizations have an opportunity to set the tone for a safer, more collaborative year. By uniting leadership and operators under a shared commitment to safety, refreshing critical practices, and fostering open communication, the industry can continue to protect its most valuable asset—its people. Let 2025 start with a powerful reminder that safety is not just a priority but a fundamental value that drives every decision and action.

About Altec Sentry

Keeping crews safe on the job is important to us. For nearly 20 years, Altec Sentry has helped employers train and certify Altec equipment operators on safe and proper operation. We are committed to your safety and believe that industry-leading equipment deserves industry-leading training—that’s exactly what Altec Sentry provides. For more information on virtual and in-person safety training through Altec Sentry, visit altec.com/safety.

Cold Weather Safety Tips for Aerial Unit, Digger Derrick, and Crane Operators

Posted on by kphillips

Winter presents unique challenges for aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators. Freezing temperatures, ice, and snow require specific precautions to ensure safety on the job and to protect equipment from cold-related damage. Here’s a guide to keep operators safe and operations running smoothly in cold weather.

Recognize Symptoms of Cold-Related Health Risks

Working in extreme cold can be dangerous for your health. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks, especially for operators exposed to the elements. Watch for these symptoms:

  • Redness of skin
  • Pain, swelling, and numbness
  • Tingling or loss of feeling in extremities

If you or a coworker experience any of these signs, it’s essential to take a break and warm up.

Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather

Proper clothing is essential for maintaining body warmth and preventing cold-related injuries:

  • Layer Clothing: Wear several layers, and adjust as needed to prevent overheating and sweating, which can lead to rapid cooling.
  • Cover Your Head and Ears: These areas are particularly vulnerable to frostbite.
  • Keep Your Extremities Warm: Wear heavy socks, gloves, and use hand and foot warmers. Ensure gloves still allow for safe operation of equipment controls.

Consider How Clothing Affects Equipment Operation

Heavy clothing and gloves can limit dexterity and impair hearing:

  • Hearing: If your ears are covered, ensure you can still hear important sounds from your equipment, coworkers, and surroundings.
  • Gloves: While thick gloves are essential, test how they affect your grip and ability to handle equipment controls safely.

Use Work/Rest Cycles

Rotating between work and rest periods helps manage exposure to cold temperatures. Regular breaks in a warm area can help prevent hypothermia and frostbite.

Protect Fuel and Engine Components

  • Avoid Fuel Freeze: Water in the fuel tank can freeze, which may disrupt operations. Use fuel treatment to prevent gelling.
  • Plug in Block/Engine Heaters: This keeps the engine warm, ensuring easier starts on cold mornings.
  • Warm Hydraulic Fluid: Cold hydraulic fluid can thicken, affecting operation. Follow the hydraulic fluid warming procedure in the operator or maintenance manual.

Ensure Heating and Defrosting Systems Are Working

Make sure all heaters and defrosters are operational before the cold season begins. These systems are crucial for visibility and operator comfort.

Adjust Crane Capacity in Freezing Conditions

For Altec cranes, apply the following adjustments:

  • 10°F to -20°F: De-rate capacity by 15%
  • -20°F to -40°F: De-rate capacity by 40%
  • Below -40°F: Do not operate the crane, as extreme cold can compromise safety and equipment integrity.

Inspect the Ground Surface

  • Avoid Slippery Surfaces for Outriggers: Ice or slick surfaces under outriggers can cause instability. Ensure a secure footing for stability.
  • Frozen Tires or Tracks: Tires or tracks can freeze to the ground, causing potential damage. Check equipment for any frozen sections before operation.

Clear Ice and Snow from Equipment

Snow and ice buildup can add significant weight to equipment, which may affect structural stability. Clear all ice and snow from equipment to prevent any additional load.

Maintain Clear Visibility

  • Windshield and Cab Windows: Ensure all windows are clear of frost and fog. Use windshield wiper fluid rated for cold temperatures.
  • Defrost Thoroughly: Don’t begin driving until you have full visibility from all angles.

Tire Pressure and Road Safety

  • Check Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can lower tire pressure, so verify and adjust as needed.
  • Drive Safely: Ice forms first on bridges, overpasses, and ramps, so drive cautiously on the way to the job site.

By being mindful of these cold-weather safety measures, aerial unit, digger derrick, and crane operators can maintain a safer work environment, reduce the risk of equipment damage, and safeguard their health in challenging winter conditions.

Need Help? Please contact us at 1-877-GO ALTEC, option 1.

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Altec Inc.

210 Inverness Center Drive
Birmingham, AL 35242-4834
Phone (205) 991-7733
Fax (205) 408-8601

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