How can I tell if I have a CM Lodestar Classic or Next Gen?

The easiest indicators are the serial number prefix and label. CM documentation identifies the newer Lodestar/Next Gen with an “NL” serial prefix and black-background label, while the Classic uses an “L” prefix and white-background label. Correct identification is important when ordering parts or referring to wiring diagrams and specifications.

Are CM Lodestar Classic and Next Gen parts interchangeable?

Do not assume that parts are interchangeable. CM specifically notes that identifying the hoist generation is important for obtaining the correct replacement parts, wiring information and specifications, and MTN SHOP separates Classic Lodestar and Next Gen Lodestar parts in its spare-parts system. Some individual components may fit both, but the exact part number and hoist version should always be checked.

What is the difference between CM Lodestar Model F and Model L?

In the MTN entertainment configurations covered in this guide, Model F is rated at 1/2 ton / 1,000 lb, while Model L is rated at 1 ton / 2,000 lb. Both are available as Classic and Next Gen versions and both lift at 16 ft/min in these configurations.

Do Lodestar Classic and Next Gen lift at the same speed?

For the Model F and Model L configurations sold by MTN SHOP and compared in this article, yes. Both generations of Model F lift at 16 ft/min, and both generations of Model L also lift at 16 ft/min. The differences between Classic and Next Gen are therefore mainly in design and features rather than rated lifting speed.

What does IP65 mean on the CM Lodestar Next Gen?

An IP65 rating means the enclosure is dust-tight and protected against water jets under the IP code system. It does not mean the hoist is rated for submersion, so the manufacturer’s operating and environmental guidance still needs to be followed.

ENTERTAINMENT

CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen: What’s the Difference?

Carmen L·November 2, 2026

Compare CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen hoists, including Model F and Model L capacities, key design differences and live entertainment applications.

CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen: What’s the Difference?

The CM Lodestar has long been a standard choice for entertainment lifting, with two generations now available: Lodestar Classic and Lodestar Next Gen. Both are designed for professional live entertainment applications, but there are important differences in their design and features.

The Classic retains the established Lodestar platform, while the Next Gen introduces updates to the brake, clutch, liftwheel and ingress protection. Since both generations are available in comparable capacities, the choice comes down to design features rather than lifting capacity alone.

This guide compares CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen, explains the key differences between the two designs and looks at how the available models compare to help you choose the right Lodestar for your application.

If you are still comparing the wider CM range, see our guide to CM chain hoists for live entertainment, covering the Lodestar, Prostar, RRS and BatteryStar ranges.

Are Classic and Next Gen Available in the Same Capacities?

Yes. We offer both the Classic and Next Gen in Model F 1/2-ton / 1,000 lb and Model L 1-ton / 2,000 lb versions. The equivalent models also lift at 16 ft/min, so the main differences are in the hoist design and features rather than capacity or speed.

Model F – 1/2 ton / 1,000 lb: Classic or Next Gen
Model L – 1 ton / 2,000 lb: Classic or Next Gen

CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen: Key Differences

The Classic and Next Gen hoists share the same core lifting role, but the Next Gen introduces several design updates affecting braking, clutch access, chain engagement and environmental protection.

The Classic retains the familiar Lodestar architecture and offers shorter headroom, while the Next Gen introduces updated braking, clutch placement, chain engagement and IP65 protection. The choice therefore depends more on the required features and working environment than on lifting capacity alone.

Compare the CM Lodestar Classic Model F, Next Gen Model F, Classic Model L and Next Gen Model L below.

Feature	CM Lodestar Classic	CM Lodestar Next Gen
Brake	Electromechanical brake	Heavy-duty DC brake
Overload Protection / Clutch	CM Lodestar Protector	Adjustable clutch located outside the gear train
Liftwheel	Classic Lodestar liftwheel design	5-pocket liftwheel for improved chain engagement
Ingress Protection	N/A	IP65
Limit Switch	Adjustable screw-type limit switch	Adjustable screw-type limit switch
Model F Headroom	14-1/4"	16.9"
Model L Headroom	15-9/16"	18.1"
Capacity	Model F: 1/2 ton / 1,000 lb Model L: 1 ton / 2,000 lb	Model F: 1/2 ton / 1,000 lb Model L: 1 ton / 2,000 lb
Lift Speed	16 ft/min	16 ft/min

CM Lodestar Model F: Classic vs Next Gen

For the 1/2-ton / 1,000 lb Model F, both the CM Lodestar Classic Model F and CM Lodestar Next Gen Model F lift at 16 ft/min with a 1/2 HP motor, so their core lifting performance is the same.

The main differences are in the design. The Classic Model F uses an electromechanical brake and CM Lodestar Protector, and has a shorter 14-1/4 inch headroom. The Next Gen Model F uses a heavy-duty DC brake, an externally adjustable clutch, a 5-pocket liftwheel and IP65 protection, with a 16.9 inch headroom.

The Classic therefore provides a more compact hook-to-hook dimension and the established Lodestar design, while the Next Gen incorporates updated components and IP65-rated ingress protection.

CM Lodestar Classic Model F 1/2 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$3,904.02 View

CM Lodestar Next Gen Model F 1/2 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$3,904.02 View

CM Lodestar Model L: Classic vs Next Gen

For the 1-ton / 2,000 lb Model L, both the CM Lodestar Classic Model L and CM Lodestar Next Gen Model L lift at 16 ft/min with a 1 HP motor, so their basic lifting performance is the same.

The Classic Model L uses an electromechanical brake, CM Lodestar Protector and adjustable screw-type limit switch, with a shorter 15-9/16-inch headroom. The Next Gen Model L adds a heavy-duty DC brake, IP65 protection, an adjustable clutch outside the gear train and a 5-pocket liftwheel, with an 18.1-inch headroom.

For applications where more compact headroom is important, the Classic has the advantage, while the Next Gen offers the updated brake, clutch and liftwheel design alongside IP65-rated ingress protection.

CM Lodestar Classic Model L 1 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$4,474.04 View CM Lodestar Next Gen Model L 1 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$4,474.04 View

Which CM Lodestar Should You Choose?
Choosing between the CM Lodestar Classic and Next Gen depends less on lifting capacity and more on the features that matter for your setup. First choose the required capacity — Model F for 1/2-ton lifting or Model L for 1-ton lifting — then compare the Classic and Next Gen designs.

If You Prioritize... Consider

Shorter Headroom Classic – both Classic Model F and Model L have shorter hook-to-hook dimensions than their Next Gen equivalents.

Familiar Lodestar Design Classic – retains the established Lodestar architecture, including the electromechanical brake and Lodestar Protector.

Ingress Protection Next Gen – provides IP65 protection against dust and water ingress.

Updated Brake and Clutch Design Next Gen – uses a heavy-duty DC brake and an externally adjustable clutch.

Updated Chain Engagement Next Gen – features a 5-pocket liftwheel designed for improved chain engagement.

Neither generation automatically offers more lifting capacity than the other. Choose Model F for 1/2-ton lifting or Model L for 1-ton lifting, then compare the features that matter to your application. The Classic offers shorter hook-to-hook dimensions and the established Lodestar design, while the Next Gen adds a heavy-duty DC brake, externally adjustable clutch, 5-pocket liftwheel and IP65 protection.

Whichever Lodestar configuration you choose, regular inspection and maintenance remain important throughout the life of the hoist. See our chain hoist maintenance tips for practical guidance on helping reduce wear and repair risk.

View Featured Products

CM Lodestar Classic Model F 1/2 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$3,904.02

CM Lodestar Next Gen Model F 1/2 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$3,904.02

CM Lodestar Classic Model L 1 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$4,474.04

CM Lodestar Next Gen Model L 1 Ton - Electric Chain Hoist$4,474.04

View More

Find the Right CM Lodestar for Your Setup
Ready to compare options? Browse the full CM entertainment chain hoist range at MTN SHOP, including Lodestar Classic and Next Gen models in both Model F and Model L configurations.

MTN also supports customers beyond the initial purchase with on-site chain hoist servicing through MTN Mobile Service.

If You Prioritize...	Consider
Shorter Headroom	Classic – both Classic Model F and Model L have shorter hook-to-hook dimensions than their Next Gen equivalents.
Familiar Lodestar Design	Classic – retains the established Lodestar architecture, including the electromechanical brake and Lodestar Protector.
Ingress Protection	Next Gen – provides IP65 protection against dust and water ingress.
Updated Brake and Clutch Design	Next Gen – uses a heavy-duty DC brake and an externally adjustable clutch.
Updated Chain Engagement	Next Gen – features a 5-pocket liftwheel designed for improved chain engagement.

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CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen: What’s the Difference?

Are Classic and Next Gen Available in the Same Capacities?

CM Lodestar Classic vs Next Gen: Key Differences

CM Lodestar Model F: Classic vs Next Gen

CM Lodestar Model L: Classic vs Next Gen

Which CM Lodestar Should You Choose?

View Featured Products

Find the Right CM Lodestar for Your Setup

Frequently Asked Questions

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CM Chain Hoists Explained: Lodestar, Prostar & BatteryStar for Live Entertainment

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