Autoquip Installs New CNC Lathe to Support U.S. Manufacturing of JAB High-Capacity Lift Systems

Autoquip has installed a new 4-meter Okuma LB-45III CNC lathe at its Guthrie facility, marking an important milestone in the company’s ongoing efforts to prepare for U.S.-based manufacturing of German-engineered, high-capacity service and maintenance lifts for the JAB lift line.

The new CNC lathe will play a critical role in producing high-precision hydraulic lift components, expanding Autoquip’s in-house machining capabilities and supporting the quality and consistency required for heavy-duty lifting applications.

Precision Machining for High-Load, High-Pressure Performance

The Okuma LB-45III will be used to rough and finish machine key hydraulic components—including large weldments, cylinders, and pistons—that serve as primary elements of JAB lift systems. The machine’s capabilities will help Autoquip maintain the tight tolerances necessary for high-load and high-pressure operation, ensuring reliability and long-term performance in demanding service environments.

Supporting Repeatable, High-Mix Production

In addition to supporting the JAB lift line, the lathe will strengthen production across Autoquip’s existing product lines. By running CNC programs for multiple JAB product families and a wide range of Autoquip lift components, the machine will help deliver consistent geometry, surface finish, and alignment across every lift produced. This investment is a key step in our facility readiness and reflects our commitment to precision, repeatability, and building the infrastructure needed to support the next generation of high-capacity lift systems.

Autoquip also recognizes the team members who have been spearheading the work to prepare the Guthrie facility for JAB manufacturing. Their collaboration and expertise continue to drive progress and make key milestones like this possible.