Liebherr LTM1500


Most Lego LTM1500 models I have seen on the internet are based on the expensive and difficult to get 24x43 wheels.
I chose to use the 62.4x20S wheels as basis for this model.

The result is a 112 stud long and 18 stud wide carrier.

The carrier has 8 axles. The first 4 and the last 2 are steered. All steering axles have the exact steering angle : this model makes turns surpising ease.
The carrier has 2 electric motors : one for traction and one for steering.
A second motor for traction should be added as the total weight of this model is approx 6.5 kg. This second motor could drive the second non-steered axle.

The superstructure has no motors or mechanisms. The winch is of an extremely simple construction with a loose axle stuck through a hole to prevent unwinding.
The cabin can be rotated from the transport position to the crane operation position. To raise the boom I add 2x2 round bricks until the required angle is reached.

The boom looks like a telescopic boom, but does not have this functionality. The Y system to support the boom or jib can be rotated up but cannot angle out.

The ballast system can be used in all the configurations which exist on the real crane.

The idea I had for a while was to add a luffable jib to this crane. I did make the extension on the boom and I made a jib, but at that point I realised how many extra parts I needed for this addition so I took it apart. It is something I may do in future. The same goes for the outriggers.

At this moment the crane model is where I liked it to be : a scale model with functional steering. I am really happy with the fact that this model looks unmistakenly like a LTM-1500.

May 2006

Jan-Willem

elmo_jws@hotmail.com