The Knuckle Boom Lifts designed by Genie are rather powerful four wheel drive and four wheel steering capable equipment. These models allow for work to be carried out effectively, even on rough terrains. The menu based ALC 1000 electronic controls help to allow the user to make easy calibrations to the machinery and its parts. System diagnostics are available in multiple languages. There are dual fuel options available on the Z-80/60 model. The optional Deutz diesel powered engine is turbocharged, but quiet. It allows for enhanced performance at higher altitudes. It also carries more than enough torque for better grade-ability and terrain.
Enhanced traction for tough terrain is due to four-wheel drive and full-time positive traction. The Z-135/70 comes standard with four-wheel steering. Optional features on this model include coordinated, crab, rear wheel and front wheel steering to give the machinery more agility. On the Z-80/60 the full-time active oscillating axle helps enhance wheel contact on irregular ground. All of these features make Genie Knuckle Boom lifts easier and smoother to operate on uneven terrain.
Although these models are larger compared to other Genie engine-powered articulating Z-booms, they have features such as continuous 360 degree turntable rotation and telescoping jibs to provide the user with remarkable range of motion and reach. The Z-boom design gives the models exceptional over and up positioning capability which ranges from 8.83 meters on the Z-80/60 unit to 23.01 meters on the Z-135/70 model. The XChassis expanding axle is an ingeniously designed mechanism used for retracting and extending axles in and out of stowed position. The width of the Z-135/70 model machinery is only 2.46 meters when the axle is stowed. For easier transport, the Z-80/60 has fixed width axles.