Product Features and Details
Prototype: In 1937 and 1944, Ardeltwerken GmbH of Eberswalde constructed steam cranes with a maximum lifting capacity of 90 tons, a dead weight of 104 tons, and a length of 10.6 meters. These cranes were powered by a steam engine producing approximately 200 horsepower, enabling movement of the 17.5-meter boom and the pulley system. To provide necessary counterbalance during operations, two counterweights of 28 tons each could be mounted on the crane. A counterbalance trolley was used to transport these weights, while a protective wagon and a boom support carriage completed the crane train.
After World War II, one of these cranes was operated by the East German Deutsche Reichsbahn (DR), while three joined the German Federal Railway (DB), stationed in Essen, Bremen, and Würzburg. With the introduction of modern 150-ton cranes in 1977, the DB phased out the Ardelt steam cranes. Unfortunately, no full crane train or crane truck from this era was preserved in a museum.
Nonetheless, these former steam giants continue to captivate enthusiasts with their remarkable construction and engineering. In both model and original form, the boom can be raised and lowered, auxiliary and crane hooks are functional, and the entire superstructure is fully rotatable. This crane set is perfect for those with limited space on their layout in gauge 1, offering an impressive and functional addition to any collection.
Model: Set includes a crane truck with a protective car, support trolley, and counterweight car. This precision-crafted model is handmade from brass and stainless steel and features authentic screw couplings, which can be swapped with double-hook or claw couplings. Equipped with a high-performance digital decoder with KM1 HQ sound, spring buffers, ball bearings, and spring-loaded axles, this model showcases a fully detailed interior, complete wagon detailing, and a realistic brake system. Also includes supports with real wood planks for stability. Total length over buffers (LüP) approx. 113.1 cm, weight approx. 15 kg, and minimum radius 1020 mm.
Digital functions: lift and lower boom, operate crane hooks, rotate structure, sound, smoke, lighting, forward/reverse driving.
Manual functions: configure support spindles, position wooden planks, remove domes, uncouple, and attach or remove the chimney.
