Allis Chalmers HD21 Tractor with Towed Scraper
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Allis Chalmers HD21 tracked tractor with towed hydraulic scraper from First Gear. The model is based on the dozer version with the blade, arms and ripper removed and a rear towing hitch added.
The towed scraper features hydraulics to control the lowering and raising of the bowl with rope used to control the skirt which is linked to the ejection frame mechanism, so, as the ejector extends, the skirt raises into the air. This shows some nice engineering on the model and the sliding mechanism is smooth.
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The front wheels are connected to the main frame structure with a pivoting linkage allowing the model to be accurately positioned on an uneven surface to demonstrate the freedom of movement of the tow bar when connected to the tractor and the additional fixed and flexible hydraulic lines can be connected to the rear of the tractor, just as in real life.
The hose detailing cast into the main frame is very good with flexible hoses connected to the main lift cylinders. |
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The main ejector cylinder is visible at the rear of the scraper along with the re-enforced frame and end section which takes a lot of punishment when being pushed by a dozer. The tyres have a deep moulded tread pattern with bolt detailing visible on the wheel hubs
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The front blade cylinders have been fitted to the model with rope used to secure the pistons, as seen on the real machines when used as tractors for towing scrapers. The fact that First Gear chose to model this demonstrates the thought that has gone into the model and most manufacturers would have just removed the hydraulics completely. |
This model also features a serial number displayed on the actual model like a name plate identifying the details of the real machine and this is a nice touch from First Gear. The rear of the model also features a hydraulic coupling block with holes where the hydraulic lines from the scraper connect. This is a nice feature on the model. The driver's seat is highlighted black to simulate the material used on the real machine and there are a host of hand levers to control the various hydraulics, including brake and foot pedals with the small console panel showing the guages and dials. |
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The front grill has etched holes with a contoured shape and circular indents protecting the internal work lights and this again gives the model a very life-like appearance. |
The tracks consist of individual linked pads with grouser and bolt detailing all visible with a tensioned idler wheel keeping the tracks nice and tight. The track frames are reasonably well detailed with two upper guide rollers and oscillating frame.
The internal engine compartment houses the fully replicated diesel engine with all the components visible from the openings on each side of the model. This level of detailing is great to see from First Gear and demonstrates that you don't need to produce a large scale model to get great engine detailing.
The paint finish is excellent with crisp printing of the logos. The level of detail throughout is fantastic and this is a great companion to the bladed version of the model.
