Page 50 - TPM Issue12

Manufacturer: WSI Models Scale: 1:50th Price: £250.00

Above:
The Spierings Cityboy tower
crane is an unusual design
which has been perfectly
SPIERINGS transformed into 1:50th
scale by WSI Models.

SK487-AT3 ‘CITyBOy’ Crane

I am always amazed at the level of engineering that goes into some models to replicate
the features and functionality of the full-sized equipment, particularly when the design is
quite complex or delicate. One such model is the Spierings SK487-AT3 mobile tower

crane which was released back in 2019. Not only is the crane complex, having the ability
to transform from road travel to lifting operations authentically, but also the fact that it
has a rather unusual but clever solution for the single cabin.
O ut of the box, the model is instruction book included with the

in a transport configuration
model showing step-by-step details on
with the various jib parts
held in place firmly with an how to set up the crane and this is easy
to follow. Naturally, for the crane to
elastic band. The chassis has three capture the most realism, some of the
axles with working steering achieving parts are fragile so care is needed
a shallow but respectable range of when handling the model.
movement. The four outriggers are sin- Once the mast is extended and
gle-stage and pull out smoothly with ad- locked, the jib can be unfolded with a
justable pads fitted to each of the four pennant line connecting to the winch
hydraulic jacks which rotate to raise the built into the superstructure allowing the
chassis off the ground. Four metal crane angle of the jib to be controlled. This
mats are included and these can be works well with a braking system on
stored in slots built into the chassis the winch keeping the jib in position. Right:
which is a nice touch. The trolley needs sliding into position on In transport mode,
With the outriggers set, attention the jib and for this, ropes have been the mast and jib fold
neatly and remain
turns to erecting the crane, firstly by included. While the instructions suggest in position well.
raising the telescopic mast and locking that the trolley movement is not
it into position. There is a very detailed supported, by passing the rope through

50 TPMMW Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2022