The GE 1.X wind turbine platform, including popular models like the GE 1.5sl and 1.5xle, remains one of the most widely deployed turbine systems in the wind energy industry. Known for durability and consistent power output, this 1.5 MW platform is a backbone of utility-scale wind farms across the world.
Yet, even the most reliable machines require periodic maintenance. One of the most complex tasks in the GE 1.X nacelle is replacing or servicing the yaw drive, a job that traditionally involves cumbersome rigging, high-risk lifting scenarios, and long downtimes.
That’s where the JibFlex from Northern Lights Solutions comes in.
What Is the JibFlex?
The JibFlex is a modular, lightweight lifting system engineered for fast, safe, and ergonomic assembly inside the nacelle of wind turbines, particularly the GE 1.X platform.
Unlike traditional nacelle cranes or external lifting solutions, the JibFlex can be carried up-tower in small, manageable modules and assembled in place by a single technician team. Once installed, the tool creates a flexible, configurable lifting arm (or “jib”) capable of reaching both the front and rear yaw drives inside the nacelle.
It mounts directly to the trunnion block inside the GE 1.X nacelle, using either a bolt-on or slip-on configuration depending on site conditions or technician preference. Once mounted, the individual modules snap together to form a lifting system that can perform a range of precision handling tasks.

The most common application for the JibFlex is yaw drive replacement, one of the more labor-intensive and ergonomically risky procedures on the GE 1.X turbine.
Here’s a breakdown of the JibFlex process:
- The system assembles quickly inside the nacelle, requiring no large rigging or external cranes.
- Technicians use the modular jib arm to reach either front or rear yaw drives.
- The JibFlex system lifts the yaw drive up from its mount and transports it to the yaw deck.
Here’s where the innovation truly shines:
Because the yaw deck on GE 1.X turbines has a PSI load limitation, technicians can’t simply place the yaw drive down on it—it would risk structural damage. To overcome this, the JibFlex is designed to “handshake” with a 1-ton tower hoist system.
This handshake allows the yaw drive to remain suspended in mid-air as it is transferred between tools, never placing stress on the yaw deck itself. Once the transfer is complete, the tower hoist safely lowers the yaw drive down the tower to the base for service or replacement.
Key Features and Benefits of the JibFlex System
- Modular and Portable: Assembles and disassembles quickly for easy transport up-tower.
- Trunnion Block Mounting: Mounts securely in the nacelle using bolt-on or slip-on attachments.
- Yaw Drive Access: Reaches both the front and rear yaw drives within the nacelle.
- Safe Transfer to Hoist: Transfers yaw drives while suspended to avoid exceeding PSI limits on the yaw deck.
- 2000 lb Capacity: Lifts up to 2,000 lbs. with reach up to 20 feet (at reduced capacities).
- Ergonomically Friendly: Reduces technician strain and lowers injury risk compared to older nacelle cranes.
- Fast Setup: No external crane required. Setup is quick, simple, and requires minimal tools.
Applications Beyond Yaw Drive Replacement
While yaw drives are the most prominent use case, the JibFlex is far from a one-trick tool. Thanks to its customizable length and reach, it can also be configured to assist with:
- High-speed shaft replacements
- Brake system servicing
- Generator inspections
- Hydraulic component swaps
- Routine component handling
Whether it’s handling small gearbox parts or pulling heavy components from tight spaces, the JibFlex adapts to the task.
Designed Specifically for GE 1.X Turbines
Understanding the layout and mechanics of the GE 1.X turbine series underscores the importance of tools like the JibFlex.
Key GE 1.X Specifications:
- Rated Power: 1.5 MW
- Rotor Diameter: 77 to 82.5 meters depending on the model
- Generator Type: Doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG)
- Gearbox: Typically a 3-stage unit (manufactured by Winergy, Eickhoff, or Bosch)
- Tower Height: Varies from 61.4m to 100m
- Nacelle Structure: Sealed housing with limited internal space
The nacelle contains all the major drivetrain and electrical systems, including the yaw system, which is located beneath the nacelle and is responsible for rotating the entire housing to face the wind.
The yaw system is active in most modern turbines. It includes:
- Yaw drives (motors)
- Yaw bearing
- Wind direction sensors
- Control systems
Proper maintenance of the yaw system is critical. A malfunctioning yaw drive can reduce energy output, increase component stress, and introduce safety hazards. Efficient servicing tools like the JibFlex reduce downtime while improving technician safety.

Enhanced with the Yaw Puck Tool
To further simplify yaw system maintenance, Northern Lights Solutions offers the Yaw Puck Tool, which is a tool designed to assist with yaw drive installation and removal by aligning components with the yaw bearing interface.
When paired with the JibFlex, the Yaw Puck Tool enables:
- Faster alignment
- Reduced component damage
- Increased technician confidence during critical phases of installation
Together, these tools form a powerful combo for wind turbine maintenance professionals.
Why This Matters for the Wind Industry
As global demand for renewable energy rises, the pressure to maintain uptime and minimize repair duration has never been greater. The GE 1.X fleet, deployed across thousands of sites, is aging, but still holds tremendous operational potential.
The JibFlex helps wind farm operators:
- Reduce costly crane rentals
- Shorten service windows
- Keep turbines online longer
- Lower technician injury rates
Whether for a fleet-wide maintenance campaign or a single yaw drive replacement, JibFlex is setting the new standard for turbine servicing tools.
The JibFlex helps wind farm operators:
- Reduce costly crane rentals
- Shorten service windows
- Keep turbines online longer
- Lower technician injury rates
Whether for a fleet-wide maintenance campaign or a single yaw drive replacement, JibFlex is setting the new standard for turbine servicing tools.
JibFlex: A Proven Solution
To recap, here’s why the JibFlex system is an essential tool for modern wind turbine maintenance teams:
- Fast, modular assembly in GE 1.X nacelles
- Safe yaw drive removal without deck overload
- Broad application beyond yaw system tasks
- Designed with technician safety and ergonomics in mind
- Reliable up-tower performance without cranes or external lifts
Backed by Real-World Results
Northern Lights Solutions has provided high-quality JibFlex solutions to wind turbine fleets across North America and Europe. Trusted by field teams, it’s helping reduce downtime, improve safety, and keep the renewable grid turning. Contact our team today to explore our solutions.