We own a 1997 model P&H. serial number 57651, and have had problems from the start. We purchased the machine in Indianapolis and have received little customer support or service from dealer or factory. In addition to problems with the machine, we've also had problems with the Greer on-board computer.

The boom bled down repeatedly within 100 hours of use. Boom cylinders and check valves were changed three times. Foreign material was found in the check valves at initial service. Changing of checks did no good. New cylinders made with new packing material installed on last new set of cylinders. We have not experienced any complete bleed down of boom on these cylinders, but it still creeps over night. First time boom bled down fairly quick, while operator was in seat. Only witnessed bleeding down one other time by a non-employee and he said, "It purged itself down in about 5 minutes." It has happened other times without witnesses. Needless to say, I try not to leave it boomed up.

On to other problems. Never re-calibrated after boom cylinder change, so we are having computer load problems. The mechanics tell me Greer and factory need to re-calibrate, but we can't seem to get it done. Factory engineer said it would be done, but 2 years later the same problems still exist. The info burnt into the chip does not match the load chart. The deductions are not accurate to attachments.

Cracking of mainframe at back outrigger boxes have occurred. Welds were beefed up at base of boom. Also steering axle alignment has never been correct. The rear steering tires wear badly.

The manuals are of poor quality. Lots of blank pages and we never received updates over time. Only a few of these type machines were made that year, so I wonder if other owners are having problems. We have one machine in El Paso, Texas and another at Syracuse Equipment. These are the only two I know of. Supposedly 12 made in 1997.

Other problems were taken care of by dealer, but were minor in nature to problems we can't seem to get addressed. Mechanics seem to want to help, but met resistance from P&H and Greer. All of this has been well documented since warranty, but never addressed.

Much more could be said about problems with the P&H crane, but too little time. We use it every day and live with ongoing problems.