Container Loading Cranes I've been looking thru LOTS of container crane images recently,...specifically HO scale, and specifically railroad car loading ones. I have some specific requirements I am seeking for my two container handling areas, but I thought it might be interesting to see what other models (commercially available, kit-bashed, custom built) might be presented, and the reasons for those preferences. Heljan model I'll start out with one of my favorites, the Heljan model. https://www.hattons.co.uk/11688/hel...o_gauge_dc_ac_dcc_operation_/stockdetail.aspx This is an expensive one, and it appears as though it is ONLY available as a fully operational model. I find it almost surprising that neither Heljan has offered a non-operating model, or perhaps some other manufacturer?? It does appear as though they have copied a real existing crane, but I find it to be so wide as to be limited to pretty large container handling scenes. It spans so many tracks. I like the idea that it services a track (or two ?) outside of its inner span. I would like to have a crane that spans only 2 or 3 tracks, with the capability to service one track outside its inner span. My container facility will possible be just barely wide enough to support this size crane.
Dimensional Modeling Concepts. They have two versions, assembled or disassembled. The guy that makes them lives near me.
It really depends on what kind of yard you are modeling. The Heljan style rail mounted gantry cranes are used in seaports and some modern/newly constructed intermodal yards. The BNSF logistics park in Kansas City has cranes like that. Other yards, most yards in fact, use cranes with rubber tires like the Walthers one. I know that you want reach outside the main span, which is mostly going to limit you to European prototypes. Most US yards use Mi Jack style cranes where trailers are lined up and then the containers are put on the adjacent train. The crane spans two lanes, one rail and one road.
