Fuel Cranes

Fuel Cranes

Snyder 104-HP-1 and 104-HP-2 Fuel Cranes

For efficient transfer from fuel pumping systems to fueling nozzles.


Multiple swivels allow fuelers to easily reach any spot within the track radius for each model. After fueling is complete, hydraulic cylinders return the crane to the resting position shown at right.

 

Maximum Reach: 15 ft for HP1 and 23.5 ft for HP2

 

Tensions are factory set under a full fueling load to make the crane ergonomically friendly while keeping an efficient return time to resting position.


Standard HP-1 Fuel Crane Drawing (104-HP-1.E)

Standard HP-2 Fuel Crane Drawing (104-HP-2.F)

HP-1 Spacing Example (104-HP-1 22)

HP-2-Spacing Example (104-HP-2 32)

Fuel Crane and Boom Cabinet Layout Example (HP12FCTL)


Fuel crane systems may be customized to fit individual site needs. Options include:

  • Custom inlet piping configurations for above-grade or below-grade connections
  • Integrated control with pumping systems (START/STOP buttons)
  • Addition of meters/counters/ticket printers
  • Flex hose assemblies and/or strainers
  • Dual counterbalances (“cactus” cranes)
  • External filter vessels
  • Extended reach radius (HP3 cranes)
  • Integration with fuel management systems

Re-qualified Fuel Cranes

Snyder offers a re-qualification program for fuel crane counterbalances.

 

  • Incoming counterbalances are disassembled and thoroughly cleaned and sandblasted.
  • All parts are measured and inspected/crack checked as required.
  • Counterbalances are reassembled using re-qualified hydraulic cylinders
  • Counterbalances are leak tested and adjusted for standard field conditions
  • Counterbalances are primed/painted and prepared for shipment.


DROP HOSES

Drop hoses provide flexibility so fuelers can easily connect nozzles to locomotive tank adapters.

 

Snyder’s standard 200 PSI drop hoses provide improved ergonomics with excellent degradation resistance. Crimped ends provide a 4:1 safety ratio.

 

Standard drop hoses come with flanged upper connections. Older cranes with drop pipes may require shorter hoses with Kamlock connections on both ends.

 

Drop hoses may be requalified by Snyder if the existing couplings can be reused.

All drop hoses are tested under a full load and tagged and serialized to ensure traceability.

Drop hose length is measured from the ends of the overall drop hose assembly (Kamlock to Kamlock, or Kamlock to flange).

 

Drop hoses come in two standard lengths for each style of fuel crane and configuration.

How to Specify Drop Hoses

Specify new (FCNDH) or requalified (FCRDH).* The remaining numbers follow a X-Y-ZZZ format.

 

X: Crane Type

1 = HP1

2 = HP2

3 = HP3

 

Y: End Connections

1: Kamlock to Kamlock, use only with drop pipes

2: Kamlock to Flange, full length hose

 

Z: Length of Hose Assembly in Inches

Use the longer hose if attached nozzles have 30-degree swivel inlets.


FAQS

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

  • How do I specify a fuel crane for my application?

    The proper fuel crane for any facility depends on the physical layout, considering factors like distances between track centers and fueling stations, height restrictions, and inlet plumbing configurations. See the HP-1 and HP-2 layout examples in the top section of this page. Contact Snyder if you need assistance specifying a fuel crane for your conditions, or would like us to quote on a comprehensive fueling system.

  • The pull force or retraction time is off on my crane. How do I adjust it?

    Snyder fuel cranes are factory set to ergonomically balance the pull force and retraction time when the entire fuel crane and drop hose assembly is filled with fuel. Before making any adjustments, verify that there are no physical restrictions on the crane and that the system is completely full of fuel.


    Adjustment bolts/nuts are located just above the hydraulic cylinders. Note that decreasing the pull force will automatically increase the retraction time, and vice versa. Follow the specific procedures for your style of crane.


    HP1 adjustment procedure


    HP2 adjustment procedure 


    Do not adjust beyond the limits noted in the procedure. Contact Snyder for assistance if you can’t bring the crane back into proper adjustment.

  • Can I re-qualify my fuel crane and/or drop hose?

    Both fuel cranes counterbalances and drop hoses may be requalified if a usable core is supplied.

  • What maintenance is required?

    Snyder recommends that the Double Swivel Joint located at the top of the fuel crane be greased every six months or 3000 cycles using SECO-D3-2598 grease. (FCN-MAN-1022). We recommend a weekly visual inspection and replacement or requalification of drop hoses every two years.

  • Why is my fuel crane dripping fuel?

    Snyder fuel cranes are fitted with a thermal relief valve that releases if the internal pressure exceeds 150 psi due to issues like thermal expansion or pressure spikes. Any fuel released in this process should be directed into a suitable drip pan/ring as part of the installation procedure. Check the relief system to make sure it is properly plumbed. Fuel drips from any area other than the relief valve will require servicing.

  • What is the warranty for fuel cranes and drop hoses?

    Fuel crane counterbalances have an expected service life of seven years. Snyder offers a seven-year prorated warranty on counterbalances to cover this period.


    Year 1 – 100%

    Year 2 – 80%

    Year 3 – 60%

    Year 4 – 40%

    Year 5 – 40%

    Year 6 – 20%

    Year 7 – 20%


    The limited warranty covers defects related to material and workmanship from the date of manufacture or requalification. All warranty claims must be submitted within 10 days of failure, and the complete counterbalance assembly must be returned for replacement or repair. This warranty does not include damage incurred as a result of misuse, mishandling, lack of routine maintenance, or “pull downs”.


    Drop hoses have a standard one-year warranty covering defects related to material or workmanship. Snyder recommends that drop hoses be requalified or replaced every two years.

  • What size drop hose do I need for my fuel crane?

    Each fuel crane comes with two standard drop hose lengths, depending on the swivel inlet of the attached nozzle. Refer to the “How to Specify” section in Drop Hoses.

  • How do I remove/install a counterbalance?

    Click here (FCN-MAN-1024) for the general counterbalance installation/removal procedure. Contact Snyder if you have custom systems or special field conditions that prevent you from following this procedure.

  • What parts are replaced on re-qualified counterbalances?

    All o-rings, gaskets, check valves, cylinder seals, and fasteners are renewed. The hydraulic cylinders and swivels are replaced with requalfied equivalents. Upgrades of various systems (guards, drip pans, etc.) are recommended to replace any outdated components.

  • Why are there two different length drop hoses for each crane configuration?

    Snyder 1720-DS nozzles come with either a 30-degree or 45-degree swivel inlet. The tip of the nozzle will be approximately 5” lower when a 45-degree swivel is used. If a longer hose is used with a 45-degree swivel, the nozzle may hit the drip pan and guard assembly when retracted, potentially damaging the nozzle and shortening its life.

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