Caldwell Adds Model 85 Coil Lifter to SmartSpec Digital Configuration Program
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
30 Second Takeaway
The Caldwell Group Inc. has expanded its SmartSpec digital configuration program with the addition of the Model 85 motorized telescoping coil lifter. Known for its high level of customization and capacities up to 33 tons, the Model 85 can now be configured, quoted, and ordered online giving distributors and customers faster access to engineered below-the-hook solutions.
SmartSpec Expands Access to Customized Coil Handling Solutions
Rockford, Illinois-based The Caldwell Group Inc. has added the Model 85 coil lifter to its SmartSpec program, a web-based digital tool that allows distributors to configure, price, and order below-the-hook lifting equipment.
The addition reflects Caldwell’s ongoing investment in digital tools that simplify product selection for non-standard and highly customized lifting devices, while maintaining the engineering rigor required for safe material handling applications.
Model 85: Motorized Telescoping Coil Lifter Built for Flexibility
The Model 85 is one of Caldwell’s most popular coil handling solutions and also one of its most configurable. The motorized telescoping coil grab is stocked in capacities up to 33 tons, with additional options available to meet specific application requirements.
Customization options include:
Higher lifting capacities
Rotation features
Integrated load scales
Indicator lights
Protective padding
Toe rollers and additional safety features
This level of flexibility makes the Model 85 suitable for a wide range of steel service centers, mills, and manufacturing environments where coil handling efficiency and protection are critical.
Digital Configuration for Non-Standard Equipment
SmartSpec is designed specifically to address the challenges of selecting and quoting below-the-hook (BTH) equipment, which often requires custom engineering rather than off-the-shelf solutions.
Through SmartSpec, users can:
Configure equipment options
Access pricing
Generate drawings
Place orders
Design products on demand, at any time
This digital approach significantly reduces lead time during the specification and procurement process, allowing distributors and customers to move from concept to quote in minutes rather than days.
Jeff Ferchen, Director of Business Development at Caldwell, explained:
“SmartSpec is rapidly getting a reputation for facilitating selection of BTH equipment, when customers need it. The Model 85 is a good example of the power of the platform; it takes one of our most popular products one of our most customized and now customers can get quotes faster than ever. In fact, they can get drawings and quotes in minutes.”
Additional Products Added and Expanding Catalog
The Model 85 has been added to SmartSpec alongside the Model 80H, a Dixon coil C-hook with pivoting wedge. By inserting the wedge between stacked coils, operators can separate and tilt a coil, allowing the hook to slide into position. The Model 80H is stocked in capacities up to 5 tons.
Other products already available on the platform include the Model 60 heavy-duty sheet lifter, with additional products continuing to be added. Caldwell has also confirmed that the Model 25 twin hoist lifting beam will be available on SmartSpec in the near future.
Meeting Customers Where They Are
Doug Stitt, President and CEO of The Caldwell Group, emphasized the importance of speed and accessibility in today’s market:
“Speed, especially in today’s world, is critically important. Customers want to be taken care of quickly and efficiently. They order their consumer items to be delivered the same day. They have thousands of hours of entertainment content on their smart devices — now. These trends continue to drive our investment in the SmartSpec platform.”
He added:
“We’re meeting our customers where they are. Some prefer the focus and portability of our smaller, targeted catalogs… while others want everything online. We’re happy to make sure everyone gets what they need.”
Equipment Detail Built Into the Platform
SmartSpec users can view detailed feature breakdowns for each product. For the Model 85, these include:
Motorized leg drive for efficient coil handling
Narrow aisle stacking to maximize storage floor space
Curved lifting pads for coil protection
High-impact plastic toe rollers to prevent lifter foot contact
Anti-clamp limit switch to protect coils during closing
Heavy-duty torque-limiting drive protection
These built-in safeguards reinforce Caldwell’s focus on safety and application-specific performance.
About The Caldwell Group Inc.
The Caldwell Group Inc. is a U.S.-based manufacturer of below-the-hook lifting devices, l
ifting beams, clamps, and engineered material handling solutions. Headquartered in Rockford, Illinois, the company serves steel, construction, manufacturing, and industrial markets worldwide, with a strong focus on safety, customization, and innovation.
Website: https://www.caldwellinc.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SmartSpec?
SmartSpec is a digital platform that allows distributors and customers to configure, price, and order customized below-the-hook lifting equipment online.
What is the Model 85 coil lifter?
The Model 85 is a motorized telescoping coil grab designed for efficient and safe handling of steel coils, with capacities stocked up to 33 tons and extensive customization options.
Why is the Model 85 significant on SmartSpec?
It is one of Caldwell’s most customized products, and SmartSpec now allows users to generate quotes and drawings in minutes.
What other products are available on SmartSpec?
Products include the Model 60 sheet lifter, Model 80H Dixon coil C-hook, and soon the Model 25 twin hoist lifting beam.
