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Heljan HO scale operating container crane
The crane looks great in the MR Pictures, but is way to limited in operating features to be used with most present yards where 48 & 53 foot containers are the norm (Garland, TX. Intermodal yard used as referance). If Heljan & Walthers can update those issues then I would be interested in updating my yard to that version. Now back to operating this fork lift truck to load the next container here at the Wylie Yard.
It looks very intresting. I’d sure like to get my hands on one one of these days, but I’d like to pay a little less.
I’ve seen the Heljan video of this crane in operation, and it’s beautiful. But limiting the container size to 20’ seems to limit the usefulness of the entire thing. Most of the containers and trailers that I have are 40’, 48’, or 53’. Is the limiting factor the torque available to the lifting motors? Ths sheet steel plate wouldn’t need to be any bigger for a larger container, and the plastic containers’ weight differences are almost negligible when compared to the steel weight.
I forgot to mention, I repainted the Heljan containers and utilized Microscale container decals to re-letter the containers. Overall this is one “cool” items; almost like a video game for your layout but scale and functional!
I have one and it will lift 20,40,48 and 53 ft. containers. What I did to modify these containers as a test was to use K&S .005 stainless steel strips and glue them on the roof of the containers. I all cut small cylinders of 5/16" steel rod and inserted two in the roof of an undecorated container. The Heljan electromagnet is strong enough to lift all without a problem.
I saw this unit demonstrated at the recent train show at state fair park in West Allis Wisconsin , I must admit it is quite impressive but it seem very problematic when making various picks.I don’t think it is worth the money.
I have been waiting for one of these for a very long time. Now all I have to do is find the money and the space. I will have at least one in the future. I have seen this model at a show to. It is incredible!
i can’t wait to get this…
the video is amazing
I wouldn’t mind having one, but for $750, I would have to do a lot of soul searching.
The video demo is awesome. I am looking forward to seeing a real demo at a train show. If it does what it claims to do it will be a great addition to my layout. I am however worried about the price.
I have purchased one of these cranes and have found it to be even better than I expected. The fact that I can program it to suit my specific needs and operate it from my DCC system is a big plus for me. There is no problem lifting the larger (up to 53’) containers. You only need to swing them round 90 degrees to pass between the gantry legs. Best piece of HO equipment I have ever purchased.
This is a model by a european designer and on their website they do show it lifting and moving a 40’ container. You simply have to turn the container to move it between the uprights. Also keep in mind that the standard size for international containers are 20’ 40’ and 45’. It’s our American doemstic containers that are 48’ and 53’, and these are never sent overseas Being based on and ship loading european container crane the limits in container size are fairly reasonable.
Outstanding product, well planned, operates flawlessly. Can be operated with a DC or DCC layout. The controller is excellent as it lets an operator move the trolley and gantry at same time. Adds a new dimension to operating the layout.
It looks great & works well but is still outside my budget at this time.
Just finished installing it, I noticed it needed the surface to be very flat. I recommend ensuring there is some timber under the tracks for the loader to keep the surface flat and level. Other than that it works great! It is a bit pricey, but it is a leap in smooth operation compared to the Brawa model it replaced on my layout.
After experimenting for days now with steel & iron strips of ALL sizes / thickness INSIDE the top of the container, I am sick & tired and need some suggestions.
The HELJAN magnet did not lift ANY combination I tried. I am certainly NOT going to cut these little round holes into the top of my containers nor glue a metal strip ON TOP of the containers. That looks awful and will ruin any prototype resemblance.
Has anyone a suggestion? Should I use MAGNETS inside the containers?
A direct reply to
raslerb@bodorasler.com
would be appreciated as well!
Thanks
Bodo
I have one of these models, and I had a problem with the wire connection at the track which the gantry rides on , so I replaced the track with #83 code track which came in 36 inch lengths which is double the length of the platform and solder the wire to the track. End of problem. It is pricey , but I waited until it went on sale for $550.00 You will have no problem spending hours loading ,unloading and switching cars. I find it a great model
I need one