Caterpillar 245 Tracked Shovel
Presented here is the 1:48th scale Cat 245 tracked shovel from Classic Construction Models. The model was announced over 2 years ago and it has taken an age for it to finally be released but the wait has been worth it, as CCM have produced another great addition to the historic Caterpillar model range.
The upper body has an open grill design which looks good and allows for the internal components to be seen. The two large opening doors at the rear of the body reveal the replicated engine compartment with engine block and cooling system all visible within. This is a nice touch from CCM and adds to the level of realism, as do the fine photo-etched walkways down both sides of the body and the accurately scaled grab rails around the upper body
The cab has a replicated interior which does look very basic, typical of the machines of this era and the control levers and driver's seat are visible through the glazed windows with an overhanging debris protection frame mounted to the roof. Front facing work lights are integrated into the lower body casting with silver painted lenses.
The track frames have detailed rollers with three upper track rollers and cast steps with tensioned idlers keeping the linked metal tracks taut. The track pads have four raised dimples simulating the fixing bolts and are narrower than the tracks fitted to the backhoe version of the model, typical for a machine used in quarries.
|
|
The boom, dipper and bucket can be accurately positioned and the hydraulics are stiff enough to allow any position to be replicated. The bottom dump bucket functions and has six detailed teeth which look good.
|
|
The hydraulics have flexible hoses fitted throughout and this really adds to the realistic appearance of the model, especially on the shovel version. |
The paint finish is good throughout with the black stripe around the body and accurate placement of the Cat logos and name on the body sides and rear counterweight. The model is presented in a sturdy cardboard box with moulded polystyrene inner carton holding the model secure during shipping. This is another great release from CCM and a good addition to the growing range of 1:48th scale historic Caterpillar replicas (Shown below loading the 769 quarry truck).
