Manitowoc introduced the upFLEX rated capacity limiter (RCL) system at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, providing a retrofit option that allows owners of older Grove mobile cranes to upgrade to newer lift management technology.
The upFLEX RCL is designed as an aftermarket replacement for earlier iFLEX systems used on Grove rough-terrain and truck cranes manufactured between 2002 and 2023.
The system features a 7-in. console with updated controls that allow operators to cycle through working screens and operating modes. Manitowoc said the updated design standardizes the interface across multiple crane models, providing greater consistency for operators working with different machines.
“We’re excited to present the new upFLEX RCL at CONEXPO 2026. Owners can retrofit the unit to any Grove rough-terrain or truck crane built between 2002 and 2023, extending the life of their crane. Many crane owners seek to maximize the life of their cranes, and now they have the option to upgrade to the latest system in a fast and straightforward way,” said Mark Harlacher, director of sales & marketing for customer support at Manitowoc.
Installation is designed to be straightforward, with the system connecting directly to the crane’s CAN-BUS through onboard Ethernet. Manitowoc describes the system as plug-and-play, allowing older cranes to be upgraded without extensive modification.
The upFLEX replaces several earlier RCL models including the iFLEX5 (LI5G), iFLEX5 (CGMK) and iFLEX2 (LSQG).
Manitowoc also introduced the APEX stand-alone indicator system at the show. The add-on provides a wireless connection to the crane’s anti-two-block sensor and wind speed sensor. Sensor status is displayed to operators through a graphical display in the cab.
Customers interested in upgrading to the new system can contact their local Grove dealer for more information.
