Reviving the Legacy of the 1978 Pettibone 220 RRC Crane

[MikePhua]

Origins of a Railroad Workhorse
The Pettibone 220 RRC crane, introduced in the late 1970s, was a specialized piece of lifting equipment designed primarily for railroad maintenance and construction. The “RRC” designation stands for “Railroad Crane,” highlighting its tailored functionality for rail-bound operations. Pettibone, a Michigan-based manufacturer with roots tracing back to 1881, had long been a pioneer in material handling and lifting solutions. By the time the 220 RRC was released, Pettibone had already earned a reputation for rugged, purpose-built machines that could endure punishing environments.
The 220 RRC was part of a limited production run, with serial numbers like 220-229 and carrier numbers such as 84110 indicating its niche deployment. Unlike conventional mobile cranes, this model was engineered to operate on rail tracks, making it indispensable for tasks like rail replacement, bridge work, and signal tower installation. Its rarity today is a testament to its specialized nature and the limited number of units ever built.
Design Features and Hydraulic Architecture
At its core, the Pettibone 220 RRC was a hydraulically actuated crane mounted on a rail-compatible carrier. The hydraulic system was central to its operation, controlling everything from boom articulation to outrigger deployment. One of the standout components was the Vickers CM-20 spool valve assembly. These valves, which could be operated manually or via pneumatic assist using small air cylinders, controlled the outriggers—critical for stabilizing the crane during lifts.
Terminology Annotation:

• Spool Valve: A type of directional control valve used in hydraulic systems to manage the flow of fluid to actuators.
  
• Outrigger: Extendable supports that stabilize a crane during lifting operations.
  
• Open Center vs. Closed Center: Refers to hydraulic circuit design. Open center systems allow fluid to flow continuously, while closed center systems only flow when actuated.
  

Due to the age of the equipment, sourcing original Vickers CM-20 components has become nearly impossible. These valves are no longer in production, and aftermarket replacements are rare. However, modern hydraulic shops can retrofit the system with contemporary equivalents from manufacturers like Parker or Eaton. The key is matching flow rates, pressure ratings, and port configurations—typically JIC (Joint Industry Council) fittings.
Challenges in Restoration and Parts Sourcing
Restoring a 220 RRC today is a labor of love. With parts long out of circulation, owners often rely on salvage yards, auctions, or peer networks to locate donor machines. One viable strategy is to replace the entire valve bank with a generic hand-lever-controlled assembly. These are widely available and can be configured for either open or closed center systems depending on the crane’s original hydraulic architecture.
For example, a Parker D1VW directional control valve can serve as a modern substitute, provided the technician ensures compatibility with the existing hydraulic pump and actuator specifications. Flow rates in the original system likely ranged between 10–20 GPM (gallons per minute), with operating pressures around 2,500 PSI. Matching these parameters is essential to avoid system inefficiencies or component failure.
Historical Anecdotes and Field Stories
In the early 1980s, a Pettibone 220 RRC was deployed during a major rail bridge reconstruction in upstate New York. The crane was tasked with lifting pre-stressed concrete beams into place—a job that required precise maneuvering and stable footing. The crew, facing freezing temperatures and icy tracks, relied heavily on the air-assisted spool valves to deploy outriggers without manual strain. One operator recalled how the machine “felt like an extension of the crew,” its controls intuitive and responsive even under duress.
Another unit was reportedly used during the cleanup of a minor derailment in Missouri in 1985. The crane’s ability to travel directly on rail lines allowed it to reach the site faster than conventional wheeled cranes, reducing downtime and expediting repairs. These stories underscore the machine’s value in specialized scenarios where mobility and adaptability were paramount.
Pettibone’s Industrial Footprint
Pettibone’s legacy extends beyond cranes. The company has produced telehandlers, pipe handlers, and material carriers for industries ranging from forestry to oil and gas. Its commitment to durability and operator-centric design has kept its machines in service for decades. While exact sales figures for the 220 RRC are elusive, industry estimates suggest fewer than 100 units were ever produced, making surviving examples rare and historically significant.
Today, Pettibone continues to innovate, with its Traverse and Cary-Lift series offering modern solutions for material handling. Yet, the 220 RRC remains a symbol of the company’s engineering prowess during a time when mechanical simplicity met operational complexity.
Recommendations for Modernization
For owners seeking to restore or modernize a 220 RRC, consider the following steps:

• Hydraulic Retrofit: Replace obsolete spool valves with modular valve banks from Parker or Eaton. Ensure compatibility with pump flow and pressure specs.
  
• Pneumatic Assist Upgrade: If air cylinders are worn, retrofit with compact pneumatic actuators rated for industrial use.
  
• Electrical System Check: Inspect wiring harnesses and replace brittle insulation. Consider upgrading to weatherproof connectors.
  
• Structural Integrity: Conduct ultrasonic testing on boom welds and carrier frame to detect hidden fatigue.
  
• Documentation: Create a custom service manual using reverse-engineered diagrams and annotated photos. This aids future maintenance and resale.
  

Conclusion
The 1978 Pettibone 220 RRC crane is more than a relic—it’s a testament to specialized engineering tailored for the rail industry. Its survival today depends on the dedication of restorers, the ingenuity of hydraulic technicians, and the shared knowledge of equipment enthusiasts. With careful modernization and respect for its original design, the 220 RRC can continue to serve, not just as a machine, but as a living piece of industrial history.