I would like to add a gantry crane to my layout which is mostly Postwar and 3 rail tinplate. I have seen various models for sale including 182, 282, 282R, 6-2302, 6-2316, 6-12700, 82097 and others on eBay.
Is there a listing somewhere that shows the various models that Lionel produced and the differences in the models? I would like the crane to have an electromagnet but this possibly could be added. I have read that the motors were changed somewhere in the production of the various models but I don't know when.
I guess the next question should be the pros and cons of the various models. Any help with this will be appreciated.
Thanks