Description

JLG VM 3242E, VM 2642E 2007 Service Manual – Factory Specs

I’m Mike Callahan, 28-year ASE Master. When a JLG VM 3242E or VM 2642E shows up in my bay, I don’t reach for a Chilton’s or some scanned PDF from a forum. I grab the JLG VM 3242E, VM 2642E 2007 Service Manual – 106 pages of factory engineering data that tells me exactly which bolt gets what torque and which relief valve setting keeps the operator safe. This is the OEM document, not a reprint. It’s the same manual JLG techs used in 2007, and it still applies to every machine with those model numbers.

Page 1 shows the part number – 31210043 – and the ANSI/NOH certifications. Page 3 starts Section A, where JLG lays out the maintenance safety precautions. If you’ve ever had a hydraulic line burst at 3,000 psi, you’ll read that section twice. They cover everything from relieving system pressure before disconnecting anything to the specific warnings about working under an elevated mast without blocking. That’s not in any aftermarket summary.

Specifications Section – Capacities and Performance Data

Section 1.1 lists capacities: hydraulic oil tank for the main system, steering unit tank, system-wide fluid volumes. You need to know the correct fill for the steering hydraulic pump and electric motor assembly? It’s right there. Section 1.3 gives performance specs – travel speed forward and reverse, gradeability, turning radius, mast and jib speed, turntable swing speed. Ground bearing pressure, machine weight stowed, up-and-over platform height – all factory-verified. If you’re setting up a VM 3242E on a jobsite with weight restrictions, that data keeps you out of trouble.

Hydraulic System Safety: What the Manual Covers

Section 2.4 is a pressure settings table that lists eight relief valve adjustments: Main Relief [PR1], Swing Right [PR2], Swing Left [PR3], Mast Up [PR4], Jib Up [PR5], Jib Down [PR6], Brake Release [PR7], Drive Torque [PR8]. Each one has a factory specification. I’ve seen a shop try to set pressures by feel – that’s how you blow a seal or drop a load. The manual also includes a Cylinder Drift Test (Section 2.5) to verify holding capability. Pair this with the torque chart in 1.4 and you have a complete repair baseline.

7 Systems Covered from Chassis to Battery

The manual breaks down into seven major sections: Introduction/Maintenance Safety, Specifications, General, Chassis, Turntable and Vertical Mast, Jib and Platform, Hydraulics, and Battery/Charger. Under Chassis (Section 3), you get drive motor removal and installation, steering knuckle disassembly, hub lubrication, steer cylinder R&R, and tire data. Section 4 covers the swing bearing, swing gearbox, mast rollers, lifting chains, and mast cylinder. Section 5 handles jib cylinder work. Section 6 dives into the hydraulic system – pump/motor assembly, brush inspection for the electric motors, filter cartridge replacement, and the function manifold. Finally, Section 7 covers battery electrolyte level, cleaning, and the centralized filling system. That’s every subsystem you’re likely to touch.

Does This Manual Cover the VM 2642E and VM 3242E?

Yes. The cover lists both model numbers – VM 3242E and VM 2642E – and the manual’s content applies to both. The differences are in the performance data (reach, height, weight) but the hydraulic system, mast design, and electrical components are essentially the same. The manual serializes the inspection and preventive maintenance schedule (Section 2.3) with performance codes, so you can follow the factory interval regardless of model.

Get the Right Torque Data with the Factory Chart

Section 1.4 is a torque chart. Not a generic chart from a hardware store – JLG’s own values for their fasteners. Section 2.2 includes a subsection on “Bolt Usage and Torque Application” that explains how to handle Teflon-coated bushings, bolt grades, and reusability. If you’re replacing the swing bearing, you need the values from 4.1. If you’re reinstalling a drive motor, you need the flange bolt torque. It’s all in one place.

Check our other JLG manuals for related equipment: JLG RS10 2013 Service Manual – Factory Specs & Diagnostics, JLG 544D-10 2007 Service Manual – 392 Pages OEM Factory Specs, and JLG 30e, 35e, n35e, 40e, n40e 2001 Service Manual – Factory Specs. If you need background on drivetrain fundamentals, Manual Transmission is a good primer, but for JLG-specific work, the OEM manual is all you need. Manual Transmission – same concept: don’t trust aftermarket when factory data exists.

How many pages does this manual have?

106 pages.

Does it include torque specifications for the swing bearing bolts?

Yes. Section 4.1 covers the swing bearing mounting bolt check and replacement. The torque chart in Section 1.4 gives the exact values. Section 2.2 also includes bolt usage guidelines – reusing bolts that should be replaced, or using the wrong torque, can cause the swing bearing to loosen and the machine to tip. The factory manual lists the torque in foot-pounds and includes a note on bolt grade. Never rely on generic charts for a machine that lifts people overhead.

You need the same document JLG techs use. This is it – the original 2007 Service Manual, OEM print, 106 pages. Access the Factory Manual and put it on your workbench. You’ll reference it every time a VM 3242E or VM 2642E comes in for service, pressure adjustment, or drivetrain repair. Don’t guess. Use the data JLG put in the manual.