kibri makes cool kits for cranes or... Buy an old life like crane car, and put it on a model tank tread.
Oh, that brings back memories! I had that one about... ummm... 35+ years ago...:wideeyes: I think I still have a picture of that one somewhere... Time for some photoarcheology!
Still have mine. It's actually the second I got because as a kid I destroyed the first. Had to have another cause as a kid wreck trains were oh so cool.
Jordan Minatures makes this steam crane: It may be a bit out of era for you, but still appropriate in a scrap yard. I have their steam shovel, I think, but it's still in a box waiting for me to put it together. Jordan kits have a lot of small parts and take some care, but they build up into nice models.
I think I will get one of those. The other ones I've seen are too modern. I think a yard might still be using a steam thingie if it's still working. ...opinions ???
Depending on the era, a steam crane wouldn't be out of place, plus there are plenty of businesses who will use equipment until it's no longer viable to run, repair or maintain, and buying new (or less old) equipment gets more economically sensible. And a steam crane will give you an excuse to deliver fuel (coal or oil) for it. More modeling opportunities!
Absolutely, scrap yards have low profit margins, especially for capital improvement. Also the classic New England mantra "If It Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It" definitely fits your locale and era. I vote for Go F'rit.
You say that after those many magnificent creations you have shown us. Your concern somehow lacks credibility, Candy.
If you're concerned, get a couple of simpler Jordan auto kits and build them first. There's a bit of "the Zen of Jordan kits" about them, but once you've put one or two together, you will get it and be comfortable with them. And slowly, you will become enamored of the Age of Steam. Resistance is futile. You will be assimilated.