Allis Chalmers 45 Grader
Presented here is the Allis Chalmers 45 Grader in 1:50th scale from First Gear.
|
|
This is a rather small model of the Type 45 grader which uses mechanical drives to operate the blade functions. The rear of the model features an open engine compartment with reproduced engine block within. The cab interior is pretty sparce and is typical of the machines of this period. The black painted operator seat and lever controls are visible through the clear glazed windows and simulated rubber window seals have been added all round along with a silver windscreen wiper which adds to the realism. |
The rear wheels have authentic tread patterned rubber tyres with silver and orange wheel hubs and are mounted to the working arm suspension. The rear grill has a cast pattern with painted slots and the silver exhaust stack raises from a hole in the engine cover.
|
|
The front wheels have narrow rubber tyres with a delicate tread pattern and fully detailed steeering system with drive rods and suspension arms. Although very well detailed, the steering is static and there are no functional parts which is a shame considering what First Gear have been able to achieve on other grader models.
|
|
The mouldboard has a cog and gear rotation mechanism and the blade can be rotated by about 40 degrees to each side. The blade can be raised by moving the two arms which hold the frame. |
This is a nice touch on the model and all the mechanical drive rods have been authentically added from the cab to the drives. This type of grader does not have articulating steering as so many of the modern graders do and it makes an interesting change for this model to be released.
The paint finish is crisp with authentic Allis Chalmers markings and logos. The model is the 2008 Toy Trucker and Contractor release and is limited to only 5000 pieces worldwide.