Lionel has an O scale magnetic crane that utilizes a series of switches and an electromagnet to lift metal cargo. Has anyone seen an HO version of such a crane? I have found many non-operational cranes, but none that actually work. Any Ideas?
Roco makes one that is DCC controlled. Not inexpensive, but it does everything the classic Lionel one does and then some. There are two versions - one is a stationary gantry-type crane, and the other is actually a crane car such as found in a wreck train. A few minor detail changes and it can look convincingly like a typical American design. The railroad one natually can be operated ANYWHERE on the track via DCC, not just at some special ‘operating section’ of track.
–Randy