The equipment shown in the photos is a 1/2 or 5/8 yard Unit model 614 or 617, not a 1020. The 1020's counterweight differs from these models. Unit cranes from Rosspipelines lack locks or dogs on the boom hoist. Instead, the boom hoist is secured by a spring-loaded brake band and drum assembly, operated by a worm gear and sliding drive gear. Proper adjustment ensures the hoist stays in place, reducing the risk of failure compared to cable breakage.
The worm drive mechanism on the boom gear is crucial for preventing Freefall of the crane when not in operation, showcasing a reliable design. Were engine options available, specifically between the straight eight models and those equipped with Detroit engines? Were the Detroit models powered by the 3-71 variant or a different one? Did they share the same bell housing number? It's challenging to find detailed information about these unit cranes online, prompting us to seek insights from knowledgeable individuals in the field.
There are a variety of engines commonly found in antique tractors, such as the popular straight 8C Chrysler gas engine. Other gas engines, like those from Ford and Continental, are also frequently used. For diesel engines, smaller units often have 2-71s while larger models like the 1020 and 1220 are equipped with 3-71s. The 271C typically features a 4-71 engine, with a possibility of the 53 series engines being utilized as well. It is feasible to convert from a gas engine to a 3-71, as demonstrated by my uncle's modification to his 1020. However, this process usually requires swapping the bell housing, clutch, and worm gear to accommodate the different speeds at which gas and diesel engines operate.
Thank you for sharing the information. I'd love to share a picture with you all, but as a new member, my posting abilities are limited. The individual who owns the crane had the engine refurbished a decade ago, but it has not been used in almost four years. I plan to use the crane for digging shafts with a clamshell bucket and then for yard work loading my processor. This is why I am concerned about the engine's condition. I have a preference for Detroit engines, as our 1977 Lima 50 sc crane with a Detroit engine has been running smoothly for piling work. Speaking with my crane inspector, I learned that as long as the boom does not have a free fall, I can become certified to work on a job site, which is great news.
I have two used crane units that I am interested in selling. Don't miss out on this great opportunity to purchase quality cranes for your next project!
- 12-09-2024
- davemccafferty
Hey Dave, I'm intrigued by your items. Could you please email me additional details such as the models, specifications, locations, pricing, and photos at [email protected]? Thank you!
I have all the details and images of the cable drop crane and unit crane ready. The cable drop crane, with a serial number 57152 and model number 617, comes equipped with a cable excavator arm and scoop. The unit crane also has a serial number 50346 and model number 614. Both machines have been well-maintained, with the motors always kept covered to prevent water damage.
- 12-09-2024
- davemccafferty
Hey there, ror76a! I believe I have located your uncle's machine here in Michigan. While exploring the area, I came across a Unit 1020A dragline in a field. I took numerous photographs and noticed that it had been converted from gas to a 3-71 Detroit engine. This modification was evident from the placement of the blower on the right side, instead of the left side as it would have been if it had come from the factory with a Detroit engine. The cab's gauge panel had also been altered, with the accelerator control and choke knob missing, indicating its previous gas engine. I posted a slideshow of the machine on YouTube and was contacted by a knowledgeable individual named Don E, who claimed to be a former operator of the dragline.
Here is the link to the video: [insert YouTube link]. Do names like Don Potts or **** Pratner (also known as Dirty **** the dirt hauler from Jackson, MI) ring a bell? The machine is currently located near Houghton Lake, close to a half-dug pond by the road, on a property with a foreclosed and abandoned house. I will be returning to the site soon to capture more images and possibly film a YouTube tour, as I am familiar with every detail of this machine. Feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] if you would like to discuss further. I possess a comprehensive manual for this dragline, and any pictures you admire from my YouTube video are at your disposal. I hope this is the same machine you are looking for—it is highly likely!