The Knuckle Boom Lifts manufactured by Genie are quite powerful four wheel steering and four wheel drive capable machines. These units allow for work to be performed efficiently, even on rough terrains. The menu based ALC 1000 electronic controls help to allow the user to make easy calibrations to the machine and its components. System diagnostics are available in multiple languages. There are dual fuel options available on the Z-80/60 unit. The optional Deutz diesel powered engine is quiet, but turbocharged. It allows for enhanced performance at higher altitudes. Furthermore, it carries more than enough torque for better terrain- and grade-ability.
Improved traction for tough terrain is due to four-wheel drive and full-time positive traction. The Z-135/70 is available with four-wheel steering. Optional features on this specific model include coordinated, crab, rear wheel and front wheel steering to give the equipment more agility. On the Z-80/60 the full-time active oscillating axle helps improve wheel contact on irregular ground. All of these features make Genie Knuckle Boom lifts smoother and easier to operate on uneven terrain.
Though these models are larger than 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 that ranges from 8.83 meters on the Z-80/60 unit to 23.01 meters on the Z-135/70 unit. The XChassis expanding axle is an ingeniously designed device used for retracting and extending axles in and out of stowed position. The width of the Z-135/70 unit machinery is just 2.46 meters if the axle is stowed. The Z-80/60 has fixed width axles for easier transport.