June 10, 2026

The Latest in Mechanic Trucks from Knapheide

One of multiple vehicles showcased at the latest NTEA Work Truck Week was this Ford F-550 chassis cab upfitted into a Knapheide Aluminum KMT1 Mechanics Truck. Take a look at the features, options and add-ons behind this build.

Inside Our Ford F-550 Service Truck

Finding a service truck with crane should be easy. It shouldn’t be stressful. Without Knapheide, you may have to work with several vendors for the chassis, body, crane, and other equipment and accessories. That takes time and extra effort. With Knapheide, you can get complete, ready-to-work mechanic trucks in one place. Knapheide sources and installs everything for you. Choose aluminum or steel bodies. Pick the right crane. Add the features and gear you need. Knapheide puts it all together so you can get to work faster.

At this year’s event, Knapheide showed an Aluminum KMT1 Mechanics Truck. It has a steel crane compartment and understructure, with aluminum side packs. This makes it about 1,000 lbs. lighter than the all-steel version. You get more payload and better resistance to corrosion. This truck included Knapheide’s new KMT control system (coming soon), cab shelving (available now), and a Milwaukee PACKOUT storage adapter plate (coming soon).

It also featured add-on equipment and accessories from other brands including a Stellar crane, Boss air compressor, Miller welder and generator, CTech Manufacturing™ tool drawers and a Reelcraft hose reel system.

Interactive Tour

Hover on the hotspots on the image to learn more about this Knapheide Aluminum KMT1 Mechanics Truck.

Interactive Tour

Tap on the hotspots on the image to learn more about this Knapheide Aluminum KMT1 Mechanics Truck.

Knapheide AKMT1 11R 714732
Crane

Crane

This hydraulic driven crane can lift up to 8,600 pounds and reach out 30 feet, making it easy for mechanics to safely lift and move heavy parts or equipment around the jobsite. It can be operated with a remote or from the rear compartment using simple push-button controls and display screens, plus there’s another display inside the cab. Hydraulic outriggers help keep the truck stable while the crane is in use.

Telescopic Sliding Roof

Telescopic Sliding Roof

This telescopic sliding roof option helps protect the cargo area from weather and keeps items secure. It uses three aluminum panels that smoothly slide on tracks for easy opening and closing. A lockable rear door adds an extra layer of security for stored cargo.

Air Compressor

Air Compressor

This 40CFM hydraulic-driven piston air compressor can power air tools, inflates tires, and helps clean or blow debris from equipment right in the field. It includes an underbody air receiver tank and a filter, regulator, and lubricator to maintain steady airflow and protect tools. A hose reel in the rear curbside compartment extends from the bumper and retracts easily for convenient use and storage.

Welder/Generator

Welder/Generator

This engine-driven welder/generator lets mechanics handle welding repairs and maintenance right on-site while also powering tools and equipment. It features remote start/stop and a digital display, making it simple and efficient to operate in the field. This adds convenience and helps get jobs done faster without needing outside power.

Workbench Bumper

Workbench Bumper

This full-width KnapLiner coated bumper provides a durable, convenient work surface and includes a lockable pass-through compartment for storing tools and materials. It also has the OEM backup camera built into the bumper for better visibility when reversing. Grip‑strut steps on each side make it easier to access the truck, and the air compressor hose conveniently retracts from the rear for quick use.

Curbside Setup

Curbside Setup

The curbside of this 11‑ft aluminum service body features tall 52‑inch compartments and a 60‑inch raised front compartment for storing larger items. The wheel well compartment includes Milwaukee® PACKOUT™ storage secured with Knapheide adapter plates to keep tools organized and accessible. A reinforced rear crane compartment houses equipment controls, power distribution module, and air compressor hose reel, keeping key systems protected and ready to use.

Streetside Setup

Streetside Setup

The streetside of this 11‑ft aluminum service body features a 52‑inch side pack height, including a front compartment with a seven-drawer unit to keep tools organized and easy to find. The wheel well compartment has two shelves, including one with Knapheide storage bins for parts and supplies. All front vertical compartments contain two adjustable shelves with dividers while horizontal and the rear curbside vertical compartments contain one adjustable shelf with dividers.

Cab Guard

Cab Guard

This aluminum cab guard shields the cab and rear window from shifting cargo in the bed during transport and provides added safety for operators if the crane makes accidental contact. Its hex-pattern design improves rear visibility without sacrificing strength.

Work Lighting

Work Lighting

The truck is equipped with four adjustable work lights, each producing 3,000 lumens, to provide bright, focused lighting for jobs in low-light conditions. Two lights are mounted on the front compartment and two on the rear for full coverage around the truck. Strobe functionality built into the taillights enhances visibility and adds an extra level of safety on the job site.

Items Not Shown

Items Not Shown

  • Cab Shelving
  • Hydraulic System
  • Universal Fuel Fill Cup
  • Chrome Wheel Simulators

TO SEE WORK TRUCKS THAT SUPPORT MECHANICS, EXPLORE KNAPHEIDE MECHANICS TRUCKS.

Mechanic Truck Video Tour

Play Video

See More
Vehicle Setups

Take tours of real Knapheide® work trucks and vans helping customers all across the nation.