What is a pickle?

A pickle is the handheld controller used to operate a chain motor. It's a small pendant with up and down buttons (and typically an emergency stop) connected to the motor by a control cable. The name comes from its elongated shape. The operator on the ground uses the pickle to run the motor's chain up or down, raising or lowering the load.

On larger rigs with many motors, individual pickles will be replaced by a centralized motor control system (a motor controller or distro rack) that allows one operator to run multiple motors simultaneously or in groups. This is essential for leveling a long truss line that's hung from multiple points, since all motors need to move together to keep the truss level during lifting.

Primarily, a pickle is used to raise and or lower into and out of its box during the load in and load out process. Alternatively, a static haul motor that delivers equipment from the ground to the catwalk is another common use of a pickle.