TL;DR
If the motor runs but the hook does not move, the hoist brake is stuck engaged. If the motor does not run, read the fault code on the crane controller before anything else.
What you might see
- hook does not rise when up button pressed
- motor runs but no hook movement
- brake release audible but no lift
- overload relay trips immediately on lift command
Likely causes
Hoist electromagnetic brake stuck engaged from worn coil, low supply voltage, or contamination on the brake disc
Hoist motor winding fault or thermal protection tripped, preventing motor operation
Overload device tripped from a true overload or a calibration drift
Mechanical binding in the gearbox or rope drum from corrosion or foreign object
Required tools
- Multimeter rated for supply voltage
- Crane controller access (fault code log)
- LOTO kit
- Feeler gauge (brake air gap check)
Safety first
- Never work under a suspended load. Lower all loads to the ground before performing any inspection.
- Lock out at the main panel disconnect before opening any control or brake enclosure on the crane.
- Never bypass the overload limiter, even temporarily. This is a safety-critical statutory device.
Procedure
- 1
Read all active fault codes on the crane controller panel. Record the exact fault text before touching anything.[1]
- 2
Verify the load does not exceed the CXT rated capacity. Check the hoist nameplate SWL. Reset the overload device only after confirming the load is within rating.
Warning: Never override or bypass the overload limiter. It is a statutory safety device. - 3
Issue a lift command and listen for the brake coil. A 'clunk' indicates the brake is releasing. No sound means the brake coil has no power.
- 4
Lock out the crane at the main disconnect. Check the brake coil voltage at the brake terminal block with a multimeter.[1]
- 5
If coil voltage is correct but the brake does not release, the brake disc or armature plate is corroded or the air gap is too large. Inspect the brake assembly.
- 6
If the motor does not energize, check the contactor output to the motor terminals. A dead contactor output with control voltage present means the contactor has failed.
- 7
If the gearbox or drum is mechanically bound (motor energizes, brake releases, but no motion), do not force it. Contact a qualified crane service technician for internal inspection.
Sources
Konecranes CXT Wire Rope Hoist & Crane Maintenance Manual, Konecranes
Konecranes CXT Wire Rope Hoist Maintenance Manual, brake and drive diagnostic procedures (general)
View source
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