Just a side note.....I learned from Lionel Repair that they recommend you do not retract the hooks to the top of the boom. When the hooks are retracted, they should be kept 1 inch from the top of the boom. In addition, I had an issue with my crane turning left and right which was alleviated by taking the cab off (6 screws) and finding one of the gears was loose inside the cab......easy fix since the gear attaches with a set screw.
-Pete