Ken Toone’s

COWANS SHELDON

RAIL CRANE IN GAUGE 1

This model is being constructed by Ken Toone in 10mm scale to represent one of the last rail mounted breakdown cranes to be built for British Rail. Six of these cranes were built in 1977 by Cowans Sheldon in Carlisle (part of the Clark Chapman Group). Four are still active around the network.

The model is designed to be able to lift a scale weight of approx 6lb. It will be electrically powered and radio controlled in four axes, i.e. raise/lower load; raise/lower jib; extend/retract jib, and slew left/right. Other functions such as operation of the stabilising bars are manual. Hydraulic functions like raise/lower of the jib are replaced by lead screws. Other minor alterations have been made to ensure reliable working.