Manitowoc has officially launched its new upFLEX Rated Capacity Limiter (RCL) for Grove mobile cranes, following its first presentation at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026. The system is designed to replace earlier iFLEX RCL units and give owners of older Grove rough-terrain and truck cranes access to updated load management technology.
The upFLEX RCL is an upgraded solution for Grove cranes manufactured between 2002 and 2023 that were equipped with previous iFLEX systems. Manitowoc estimates that approximately 13,000 machines could be eligible for the upgrade, providing owners with an opportunity to extend the service life of their existing equipment while incorporating newer operating technology.
The new system features a modern design, a 7-inch console and standardised controls. Its intuitive interface allows crane operators to navigate between working screens and operating modes. The system is compatible with the full range of Grove rough-terrain and truck cranes previously supported by older iFLEX models, providing a consistent operating experience across eligible machines.
A key feature of upFLEX is its simplified installation process. The RCL connects directly to the crane’s CAN-BUS through the onboard Ethernet, enabling a plug-and-play installation. This approach is intended to reduce installation complexity and downtime associated with upgrading the existing load management system. Standardised controls also allow operators moving between upgraded machines to work with a familiar interface and operating layout.
Matt Wong, Vice President of Customer Support at Manitowoc, said, “We’re excited to bring the upFLEX RCL to market. We got lots of interest from visitors when we introduced the unit at CONEXPO 2026, and we know customers want to extend the life of their proven and capable Grove cranes — upgrading with upFLEX is a great way to do that. The plug-and-play design allows owners to harness the latest load management technology in a fast and straightforward way.”
The launch addresses the needs of crane owners seeking to modernise existing fleets without replacing machines that continue to meet their operational requirements. By offering an upgrade option for a substantial installed base of Grove cranes, Manitowoc aims to help customers retain proven equipment while benefiting from a more contemporary rated capacity limiting system.
The upFLEX RCL replaces three earlier systems: the iFLEX5 (LI5G), iFLEX5 (CGMK) and iFLEX2 (LSQG). Its introduction expands Manitowoc’s support offering for existing Grove crane owners and provides a standardised upgrade platform across compatible models.
The Manitowoc Company is a global manufacturer of cranes and lifting solutions. Its portfolio includes mobile cranes and other lifting equipment marketed under established brands, including Grove. The company also provides aftermarket support, parts and services to help customers maintain and operate their equipment.
