Grove TM150 Truck Crane still Going Strong after Four Decades in Namibia
In an age when machines are upgraded faster than you can say “service interval,” it’s rare to come across a piece of equipment that not only survives the test of time but thrives through it. Yet nestled in Windhoek, Namibia, there’s one such legend still stealing the spotlight. Meet the Grove TM150, a full hydraulic truck crane born in 1980, affectionately nicknamed “Grietjie.” Over four decades later, she’s not just surviving—she’s still doing the heavy lifting.
For Namibia’s construction and crane hire industry, the TM150 isn’t just an old workhorse. She’s a testament to Grove’s unmatched engineering and commitment to quality. Her story is one of rugged endurance, mechanical simplicity, and a whole lot of heart.
From Harbour Hustle to Hometown Hero
Originally purchased by Transplant Namibia, Grietjie got her start hauling and lifting in the bustling coastal town of Walvis Bay. She quickly earned her stripes handling tough lifting operations around the local harbour. Her robust build made light work of heavy-duty tasks, and it wasn’t long before her reputation began to grow.
Then came a pivotal turn. In 1988, Windhoek Hire Sales & Services, owned by the Guttzeit family, started renting the TM150. They were so impressed by the crane’s performance and dependability that they decided to make her a permanent member of the team.
A Workhorse That Became a Legend
Grietjie soon became the backbone of Windhoek Hire’s steel erection division, especially for smaller-scale projects scattered throughout the city. What made her so reliable? Well, the secret lay in the crane’s straightforward and hardy design.
The TM150 was built around a GM two-stroke engine, an absolute tank when it comes to dependability. Its purely mechanical design meant there were fewer points of failure, and just about every part could be either fabricated locally or sourced with ease. No complicated electronics. No finicky sensors. Just good, honest engineering that any skilled mechanic could work with.
With maintenance kept to a minimum and repairs refreshingly uncomplicated, Grietjie proved to be a dream for both operators and technicians alike.
A Proper Send-Off – But Still Not Finished
After decades of dutiful service, Grietjie earned her well-deserved retirement at the Old Wheelers Club in Windhoek. But calling it a full retirement might be a stretch. Before she took her final cruise to the club, the team performed a few basic checks – topped up the oil, filled her tank, slapped in a new battery. Just two cranks later, she roared back to life and rolled off for her final destination.
Even now, she occasionally helps out with lighter lifting duties. Talk about not knowing when to quit!
Joerg Guttzeit, a member of Windhoek Hire Sales & Services, fondly reflects: “Grietjie served us faithfully over the years and remained loyal whenever we needed her. Even today, she remains functional, with only minor wear on the ring gear components. Thank you, Grove, for building such a remarkable crane—it’s been a privilege to operate.”
Built to Last – The Grove Difference
The TM150 is more than just a symbol of nostalgia. It’s a living example of Grove’s ethos: build it tough, make it reliable, and let it work for generations. The crane’s enduring legacy lies in its simplicity and dependability—qualities that Grove continues to bake into every machine they produce.
- Durability: The TM150 has stood the test of Namibia’s harsh environment—scorching heat, salty air, and dust storms included.
- Serviceability: With no complex electronics to deal with, any competent mechanic with basic tools could keep Grietjie in tip-top shape.
- Performance: For over 40 years, she tackled job after job without breaking stride.
Grove and Manitowoc – A Century of Innovation
Grove is part of the Manitowoc Company, a powerhouse in the world of lifting solutions since 1902. With a proud legacy spanning more than 120 years, Manitowoc designs, manufactures, and supports a diverse range of equipment through brands like Potain, National Crane, Shuttlelift, and of course, Grove.
The company’s global reach and local service networks ensure that whether it’s a brand-new crane or a vintage legend like Grietjie, support is never far away. Manitowoc’s continued investment in R&D and customer-centric support keeps their machines running longer, performing better, and pushing boundaries further.
A Beacon of Reliability in Modern Construction
In today’s fast-paced, tech-heavy construction landscape, Grietjie offers a refreshing contrast. She’s a reminder that while innovation is vital, the true test of engineering lies in longevity. And she’s not alone. Across the globe, many Grove cranes from past decades are still clocking in, still earning their keep.
For construction professionals, investors, and policymakers, the lesson is clear: when you invest in Grove, you’re not just buying a machine. You’re investing in a long-term partner.
Keeping the Legacy Alive
While Grietjie may one day be fully retired, her story continues to inspire. It’s a tale of how sound engineering, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer value can build something truly timeless.
And who knows? Maybe 40 years from now, we’ll be telling stories about the cranes being built today. If Grove’s track record is anything to go by, we probably will.
