The "BIG HOOK" RAILROAD WRECKING CRANE
SP FPMW 7070
The wrecking crane is a form of locomotive crane. It is for wrecking service but can accommodate other types of heavy work such as bridge construction, placing or moving girders, concrete pads, etc. They are equipped without riggers and rail clamps for additional support while working heavy loads. A tool car is typically a companion of the Big Hook and carries a multitude of tools and attachments that greatly extends the capabilities of the crane which include long distance drags. As built by the Bucyrus-Erie Company, weight 375,000 pounds, lifting capacity 200 tons at 17 1/2 feet, auxiliary hook capacity 60 tons at 30 feet or 45 tons at 48 feet, boom length 35 to 40 feet typical; and vertical lift radius 15 to 40 feet.