The Grand Coulee Dam
Third Powerhouse Intake Service Crane

This crane, located on the dam roadway above the third powerhouse, is used to service the penstock inlets. A section from one of the inlet trashracks can be seen suspended from the crane. The left and right powerhouses and the pumping plant have similar cranes.

The crane is unusual in that it doesn't use cables. Instead its lifting power comes from four massive hydraulic cylinders which can be seen clearly in the middle photograph. The crane traverses the length of the third powerhouse on what amounts to railroad track laid along either wall. The crane is used to lift the rotor/turbine assemblies of the massive generators out of their pits for servicing.

Charlie Hubbard's

The Grand Coulee Dam

Many thanks to Charlie for his article and photo! More interesting photos and Information can be seen at his web site. It is a must see!