Lionel Trackside and Gantry Cranes

Ross-Custom has specialty track for the cranes to ride on. The motorized cranes will move along the track wirelessly.

Gargraves has one also.  Www.Gargraves.com

Given their age I would recommend the gantry crane. The trackside crane requires care in handling. If the “cables” get unstrung its a real chore to make them right.

The manual boom control is a non issue as raising the magnet is really all that is needed. Plenty of play value here.

Pete

Go with the gantry crane.  Your grandkids will have more fun with it.

I built my own track for my TMCC gantry crane from 2 aluminum angle pieces. Buried them in plaster 4&1/2 inches apart.

I like your gantry track Bill. I made my own as well using code 148 hand spiked to plywood. I used to lay my own HO track so was familiar with the technique. Also mine is older and had to be moved manually. I added a motor and lead screw under the layout.

Pete