What to Know Before Buying a 2014 Boom Truck Crane

Quick answer: A 2014 boom truck crane typically offers a strong balance of capacity, technology, and value. Key brands include National Crane, Elliott, and Manitowoc. Before buying, verify boom hours, outrigger condition, and inspection records — these three factors determine whether you're getting a deal or inheriting a repair bill.

The 2014 model year sits in a sweet spot. Old enough to be priced well below newer inventory. Recent enough to carry load moment indicators, updated hydraulic systems, and operator-friendly controls. If you know what to check, a 2014 unit can deliver years of reliable service at a fraction of new-machine cost.

Here's what matters.

What Are the Key Specs to Look For in a 2014 Boom Truck Crane?

Capacity and configuration vary widely by manufacturer. Common specs in the 2014 model year:

• National Crane 600E Series: 17.5-ton capacity, 127-ft. max tip height, single-section jib
• Elliott 30105R: 15-ton, 105-ft. boom, knuckle-boom configuration
• Manitowoc/Grove TMS models: 30–50 ton range, full-power swivel, outrigger monitoring systems

Boom length, carrier chassis (Peterbilt, Ford F-750, International), and auxiliary hitch options all affect job-site fit. Know your lift requirements before you look at a single listing.

What Should You Inspect on a 2014 Boom Truck Crane?

Three inspection areas separate good buys from money pits.

1. Boom wear and crack history
Inspect the telescoping sections for scoring, pitting, and any weld repairs. A 2014 unit with documented annual inspections and no weld repairs is worth more than a cleaner-looking crane with no paperwork trail.

2. Outrigger pads and cylinders
Outrigger cylinder seals are a known wear item. Leaking seals mean reduced stability under load — a safety issue and an immediate repair cost. Budget $3,000–$8,000 per cylinder if replacements are needed.

3. Engine hours vs. boom cycle hours
Truck miles tell you half the story. Boom cycle hours reveal how hard the crane system itself was worked. A crane with 120,000 truck miles but light boom use is a different animal than the same mileage with continuous commercial rigging history. Ask for both figures. Insist on verifying both in person.

How Much Does a 2014 Boom Truck Crane Cost?

Retail range in the current market: $80,000–$175,000, depending on capacity, boom length, carrier condition, and service history.

Units with full dealer service records and recent ASME B30.5 inspections sit at the top of that range — and earn it. A crane missing documentation saves you $20,000 upfront but can cost far more in deferred inspections, unknown repairs, and insurance complications.

The fastest way to overpay is to buy on appearance. Buy on documentation instead.

Is a 2014 Boom Truck Crane Still Worth Buying in 2025?

Yes — with conditions.

The 2014 model year predates some of the advanced load-management software found in post-2018 units, but the core mechanical systems are proven and well-supported. Parts availability for major brands remains strong. Certified technicians familiar with these configurations are not hard to find.

Where 2014 units fall short: they typically lack integrated telematics and real-time load charting displays common in newer inventory. If those features are required for your contracts, look at 2018 and newer. If raw lift capacity and reliability matter more than digital features, a well-maintained 2014 competes directly with newer machines at $40,000–$60,000 less.

What Documentation Should Come With a Used 2014 Boom Truck Crane?

Don't close a deal without these:

• Current or recent ASME B30.5 annual inspection certificate
• Load chart decals (in-cab, legible, matching the boom configuration)
• Maintenance logs with oil change and hydraulic service intervals
• Any repair or weld history on the boom structure
• Title, clear of liens

Missing any of these is a negotiation point, not a dealbreaker — but price the missing documents into your offer.

Know Before You Buy

A 2014 boom truck crane is a capable machine when you know what you're evaluating. The specs hold up. The parts are available. The market is pricing them fairly.

Do the inspection work. Get the paperwork. Verify boom hours in person. A prepared buyer turns this into a calculated acquisition — not a gamble.