Meccano Giant Block-Setting Crane

This CAD model is my slightly modified version of a Meccano Giant Block-setting Crane (Super Model No. 4) from 1928. At the time, this was the largest model published by Meccano and is still considered an icon by Meccano enthusiasts. Many different variations have been constructed by model builders.

The model is based on a Stothert & Pitt “Titan” block-setting crane manufactured in England during the early 1900s. These cranes were used around the world for building breakwaters for harbours. They were capable of lifting large concrete or granite blocks, weighing up to 50 or 60 tons, and very accurately placing them into position.

The model includes an electric motor for driving the wheels of the gantry, swiveling the boom, moving the trolley, and raising and lowering the block-setting gear. The drive train for each mechanism can be engaged and disengaged using control levers. The actual model is about 30 inches (76 cm) high with a boom length of about 62 inches (157 cm). It consists of approximately 4,000 individual parts, around 2,800 of which are bolts, nuts and washers.