KC-12
Introduction
First and foremost we would like to thank you for your purchase of a Kessler Crane. We are
confident that you will find the design and quality of materials to meet or exceed your expec
tations. We have dedicated much time and consideration into each of our products to ensure
durability, stability, and ease of use. We extend a Lifetime Warranty so that you will share the
confidence in our products, knowing that you have a company that will always stand behind
its products.
Please take some time to read this manual in its entirety. This will ensure proper assembly
and operation of your crane. Please pay special attention to the safety tips section of this
guide. You will experience solid functionality with our cranes but you must adhere to the
safety recommendations to ensure a safe environment to the operator and others in the area.
By using a Kessler Crane you will be able to achieve an elevated level of quality that will be
evident to your existing clients as well as new ones. Enjoy your new Kessler Crane!
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Safety Procedure
1) Before using your Kessler Crane in the field, practice assembly and operation of the unit in a controlled environment such as your studio or warehouse. Please be sure that all those who will be using
and operating the crane are present and understand how to use it safely.
2) It is a must to use either a floor spreader or midlevel spreader with the tripod when using a Kessler
Crane. Using a spreader will strengthen the tripod and increase the level of safety while the crane is in
use.
3) Always be sure to rest the camera end of the crane on the ground or other stable surface when
adding or removing the counter weights. When assembling the crane mount the camera first, then add
the counter weights. When disassembling the crane, remove the counter weights first then remove the
camera.
4) If you are using the optional vertical brake, be sure to never remove any weight from either end of the
crane with the brake in a locked configuration.
5) If using the crane support tripod with the legs extended, be sure that the legs can be locked securely
to disallow slippage and that the entire system is still balanced and stable.
6) If using the KC-5.5 with a tripod in this extended configuration, the crane will be too short to reach the
ground. Use an elevated surface to rest the camera end of the crane on while setting up and breaking
down the crane. This will prevent the crane from possibly tipping over.
7) Please be sure to keep cables and fingers clear of any of the pinch points of the crane.
8) Attempting to move the tripod with the crane and counter weights attached is dangerous unless you
are using a dolly. If you are using a dolly, be sure to have the tripod in its lowest configuration as well as
using a second operator for added safety. If you must move the tripod without a dolly, take the time to
remove the counter weights and camera first.
9) Never operate the crane over people.
10) Perform an inspection of the crane before each use. Examination should include areas such as
cable frays (when support cables are in effect); welds for any kind of cracks or fatigue; bolts for proper
tightening; support rails for stress; collars should be tight and secure; overall integrity.
Never exceed 75lbs of total counter balance weight, or 45lbs on either side of the frame.
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KC-12
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
STEP 1
Begin by positioning each section. The T-Bar (control
rod) should be underneath each frame section (base &
tip).
STEP 2
Slide the coupler bars into the base section of the
crane, aligning the holes with the hole of the frame.
Then, slide the first cable support over the aligned
frame. Use a ¼”-20 bolt and nut to secure it but do not
tighten.
STEP 2B
If you have purchased the optional Tool Less Kit, slide
the first cable support over the aligned frame. Use a 1
½” threaded knob to secure it. Place the female
threaded knob on the inside of the frame. Leave the
knobs loosened.
STEP 3
Leaving the supports in a loosened state, slide the mid
section onto the base section. Use the ¼”-20 bolts and
nuts to fasten and leave them loosened. Making sure
the frame sections are tight, tighten the bolts.
STEP 3B
If you have purchased the optional Tool Less Kit, leave
the supports in a loosened state, slide the mid section
onto the base section, use the ½” threaded knobs to
fasten and leave them loosened. Make sure the frame
sections are tight, secure the outside knobs first, fol
lowed by the inside.
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STEP 4
Place the crane onto its side and attach the control rods
together.
STEP 4B
If you purchased the optional Tool Less kit, insert the
stainless steal thumb knob, apply wing nut, and securely
tighten.
STEP 5
Attach the handle to the handle bar.
STEP 6
After inserting the coupler bars into the final segment,
leaving the ¼”-20 bolts slightly loosened, slide it into the
midsection checking to make sure it’s tight before secur
ing the bolts.
STEP 6B
If you have purchased the optional Tool Less Kit, after insert
ing the coupler bars into the final segment, leaving the ½”
threaded knobs slightly loosened, slide it into the midsection
checking to make sure its tight before securing the knobs.
STEP 7
Place the crane onto its side again and connect the last two
control rods.
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