Bell B30E Articulated Dump Truck
USK Scalemodels are becoming known for their 1:32nd scale agricultural models and it is great to see their first 1:50th scale release in the form of the Bell B30E articulated dump truck, a model which has some very nice touches.
Weighing in at over 19 ton with a load capacity of 28 ton, the B30E is the latest generation hauler from Bell, packed with class leading features to provide a superior ride quality with uncompromised safety standards and a lower daily operating cost. At the heart of the engine bay is a Mercedes Benz OM 926 LA diesel engine delivering 322hp coupled to an Allison transmission providing 6 forward and one reverse gear.
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The 1:50th scale replica has accurately captured the new styling of the E-series design with a sloping bonnet with small front grill.
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As with previous Bell replicas, the bonnet is hinged and can be tilted forward to reveal the internal engine bay, complete with Mercedes Benz branded engine block. The entire cabin is also hinged, tilting sideways to uncover a moulding of the transmission beneath which is a nice addition to the model. |
Access to the cabin is by the silvber finished steps set into the rear of the front wheel arches which have safety railings and black painted anti-slip floor panels with the outer edge of the wheel arches also painted black.
The cabin interior has been reproduced in a single colour casting capturing the drivers seat and dashboard contours well. Externally, rear view mirrors are attached to the cab frame with a screen wiper and silver finished lights integrated into the roof line. To the rear, a clear plastic safety panel with a fine printed mesh pattern is fitted along with the silver exhaust pipe.
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The tipping body is modelled with the optional rear tailgate which rises up as the body begins tipping and this works very well, achieving an authentic tipping height at full extension of the hydraulics. A flexible hose bundle is fitted across the articulation joint with black painted simulated rubber mud flaps and a dark red primed interior. |
The articulating chassis is powered by a pair of hydraulics and achieves a reasonable degree of steering movement while the rear axles are fitted with springs, allowing them to oscillate to demonstrate the suspension system and once again, this is a good addition to the model.
The paint finish is of a high standard however, on the review sample, the registration of one of the Bell logos is misaligned and it appears that some of the small grills in the bonnet have been painted by hand with several slight smudges noticeable.
For their first 1:50th scale construction model, USK have done a great job and should be proud of the results. I now look forward to seeing what they have planned for their next 1:50th release. The B30E is pictured below alongside the Bell B40D ADT.
