Caldwell Adds Coil Lifter to SmartSpec Program

The Caldwell Group Inc. has added the Model 85 coil lifter to its SmartSpec program — a digital tool that allows distributors to configure lifting equipment.

The motorized telescoping coil grab is one of the Rockford, Illinois-based manufacturer’s most popular products. While it is stocked in capacities up to 33 tons, it is also one of the company’s most customized lifters. Higher capacities, rotation options, load scales, indicator lights, padding, toe rollers, and other options are available.

SmartSpec is unique in giving customization options to dealers specifically looking for non-standard below-the-hook equipment. Ongoing investment in SmartSpec has created a web platform that allows customers to access pricing, place orders, and even design their own products — any time.

The Model 85 coil lifter is a landmark addition to Caldwell’s ever-growing catalog of products available on the SmartSpec digital product configuration tool.

The Model 85 has been added at the same time as the Model 80H, which is a Dixon coil C-hook with pivoting wedge. By maneuvering that wedge in between two stacked coils, an operator can separate them and begin a tilt, allowing the rest of the hook to slide in and do its job. It is stocked in capacities up to 5 tons. The Model 60 heavy-duty sheet lifter, meanwhile, is one of a catalog of products already available on the SmartSpec platform.

Jeff Ferchen, director of business development at Caldwell, said: “SmartSpec is rapidly getting a reputation for facilitating selection of BTH [below-the-hook] equipment, when customers need it. The Model 85 is a good example of the power of the platform; it takes one of our most popular products — one of our most customized — and now customers can get quotes faster than ever. In fact, they can get drawings and quotes in minutes.”

Doug Stitt, president and CEO at Caldwell, said: “Speed, especially in today’s world, is critically important. Customers want to be taken care of quickly and efficiently. They order their consumer items to be delivered the same day. They have thousands of hours of entertainment content on their smart devices — now. These trends continue to drive our investment in the [SmartSpec] platform.”

The Model 85 coil lifter maximizes the efficient handling of coils.

He added: “We’re meeting our customers where they are. Some prefer the focus and portability of our smaller, targeted catalogs, covering below-the-hook lifters; construction lifters; mill duty lifters; Renfroe clamps; or RUD lifting points. While others — sales reps, purchasing agents, and even some end users — prefer everything in one big book. Of course, others want everything online. We’re happy to make sure everyone gets what they need.”

SmartSpec users can see the multitude of Caldwell’s products’ key features. The Model 85 coil lifter, for example, offers motorized leg drive that maximizes the efficient handling of coils; marrow aisle stacking, that maximizes coil storage floor space; curved lifting pads, for coil protection; and high impact plastic toe rollers, for prevention of lifter foot contact. Caldwell’s Ferchen also pointed to the anti-clamp limit switch, which protects coils during closing of the lifter; and heavy-duty torque limiting drive protection.

• New items are being continually added to SmartSpec; the Model 25 twin hoist lifting beam will be available soon.