3D Printed RC Crane Has Epic 3-Foot Reach

Have you ever watched a massive crane maneuver down the road and wished you had a miniature version you could control without the fear of knocking down your neighbor’s house? If so, ProfessorBoots has created the perfect project for you. This build, inspired by the Liebherr LTM 1300, is more than just a 3D-printed RC car that resembles a crane—it’s a fully functional, scaled-down version that you can drive and operate like the real thing.

This miniature crane isn’t just for show; it actually works like a real crane. You can drive it around, park it, and even deploy the fully functional stabilizer booms as if you were managing a real construction site. From there, you can enjoy the surprisingly satisfying experience of extending the three-foot boom while the counterweight locks into place automatically. The crane is powerful enough to lift and move small objects, allowing you to perform mini lifting operations at home.

In the accompanying video, ProfessorBoots goes into great detail about how the build functions, explaining everything from the gears and linkages to the more extensive assembly components. This isn’t a simple project; it involves ten gear motors, four servos, and two ESP32 microcontrollers for precise control and operation. The complexity and sophistication of the design highlight the effort and engineering required to bring this RC crane to life.

For those who feel inspired to create their own version, ProfessorBoots offers plans for sale on his website. This project is a fantastic example of combining mechanical engineering, electronics, and 3D printing to create a highly realistic and functional RC model, perfect for hobbyists who appreciate detailed builds and construction equipment.

Read more: 3D Printed RC Crane Has Epic 3-Foot Reach