THANKS EVERYONE For The HELP!! Got her DONE.....Lionel #22998 Triple-Action Magnetic Crane.......Looking for an easy way to REMOVE Cover off the "CRANE" !!

Step1 unscrew the handle that lifts the boom. Obviously, then the crane boom will just fall down (just be aware), then the shell body easily lifts up off the crane base.

Also, hints from the Crane car apply.

Vernon,

Thanks for the info.  Was easier than I thought!  Was able to make the repair & get it back on the Layout!!

Thanks again,

FREDSTRAINS

OK, now the big question...anyone source a tiny magnetic  to go on the hook?  Ive tried every toy, hardware store etc., no luck!

Assuming you are looking for an electromagnet, as in the picture above??

Try searching 'parts & accessories', 'crane magnet' in the O scale category of that auction site.

If you're just looking for a permanent magnet to hang from the hook, check a LHS (or web)...lots of small, different shaped rare earth (neodymium) magnets to choose from.  CA a loop to the magnet, attach to the crane hook.   However, how would it let go of what it attracted??  The "Big Hook 'n Grabber"???

FWIW...

KD