The Wow We Dock Crane kit (SP_29) is a strong Technology / PAT mechanisms project — learners build a wooden harbour crane and explore pulleys, gears, and lifting a load safely in a classroom model.
This guide covers the classroom idea, how to plan the build, and where to buy the kit in South Africa.
What this project teaches
• Pulleys and mechanical advantage in lifting systems
• Gears for changing speed / torque (depending on your kit layout)
• Stability of a tall crane structure under load
• Design–make–evaluate skills for PAT write-ups
Real dock cranes are industrial machines. This school kit is a safe wooden classroom model — use only light test loads.
Kit facts (Wow We SP_29)
• Product: Dock Crane | Pulleys and Gears School Project Kit (SP_29)
• Made in South Africa by Wow We
• Shop: https://www.wowwe.co.za/products/school-projects-kit-dock-crane-pulleys-and-gears-sp_29
• Related: Electromagnet Crane (SP_03A)
• Teachers hub: https://www.wowwe.co.za/pages/for-teachers-caps-pat-school-project-kits
Check the live product page for current price, stock, and what’s in the box.
What you may need besides the kit
• Wood glue (and drying time)
• String / cord if supplied or specified in the instructions
• A light classroom test load (paperclip bag / small block)
• Optional paint for the finished model
Suggested classroom plan
1. Intro: why harbours use cranes; how pulleys reduce effort
2. Dry-fit mast, boom, and base; check for square and bracing
3. Assemble structure first; let glue dry before stringing
4. Fit pulleys/gears per instructions; check free movement
5. Light lift test; note friction or tipping
6. PAT write-up: labelled diagram, method, results, improvements
Common mistakes
• Building the boom before the base is square and dry
• String rubbing on wood edges (extra friction)
• Overloading the model until it tips
• Binding gears or pulleys from over-tight axles
Related Wow We kits
• Electromagnet Crane: https://www.wowwe.co.za/products/electromagnet-crane-school-projects-sp-03a
• Crane guide: https://www.wowwe.co.za/blogs/news/grade-7-electromagnet-crane-project-guide
• Grain Crusher: https://www.wowwe.co.za/products/school-projects-kit-grain-crusher-sp_17
• Cell phone tower: https://www.wowwe.co.za/products/cell-phone-tower-school-projects
Buy the kit
https://www.wowwe.co.za/products/school-projects-kit-dock-crane-pulleys-and-gears-sp_29
School orders: WhatsApp +27 81 544 3750
All school kits: https://www.wowwe.co.za/collections/school-project-kits
FAQ: https://www.wowwe.co.za/pages/wow-we-faq-school-kits-models-shipping
Wow We is a South African maker of laser-cut STEM kits — not affiliated with woww.co.za or WowWee.
