Caterpillar 660 with Athey Coal Hauler
Presented here is the 1:48th scale Caterpillar 660 tractor with Athey bottom dump coal hauler trailer from Classic Construction Models. Produced in a strictly limited run of 750 pieces, the level of detail is good throughout.
The build quality of the model reviewed here is very good with a high quality paint finish throughout and crisp printing of the Caterpillar logos and details. The tractor has a nicely replicated operator's station partly hidden within the fully enclosed cabin which gives the tractor a different look to the 666 scraper model previously released.
The windows have black printed lines simulating the rubber seals with accurately scaled metal grab rails and an integrated rear view mirror. The front windscreen has a plastic wiper with a mesh screen covering the rear window. Flexible hydraulic hoses have been added across the pivoting hitch with a protective panel integrated into the neck of the trailer.
One nice touch on the model is the moving steering wheel which is linked to the steering bar on the front wheels which have a limited amount of movement. Other details on the tractor include access steps on both sides with accurately scaled grab rails with a glazed front windshield with integrated grab handles.
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The engine bay has been captured well with the Caterpiller block prominently displayed with all the cooling, filtering and exhaust components added. The front photo-etched grill with crisp perforations is painted yellow to match the bodywork. Behind the grill is the radiator assembly, complete with cooling fan detailing with the large exhaust stack rising from the bonnet. |
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Light housings are found on both sides of the engine frame with silver painted lenses while the Caterpillar name is cast into the front edge of the engine bay, topped with a rugged front bumper bar.
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The rear wheels of the trailer are simply mounted to the frame with guides between the pair of tyres keeping small rocks clear. The frame extends beyond the tyres and is rounded off in case a gentle push is needed. |
The wheel hub detailing is very nicely implemented and the tyres have a slanted tread pattern.
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The sides of the dump box have panelling details while the interior sides have ribbing and a re-enforcing frame. The most dissapointing aspect on the model are the opening doors on the underside of the trailer. I was expecting these to have been modelled with more resistance so they remain either open or closed but they are very loose and just hang half open. I would guess these doors are hydraulically operated on the full sized machine and it is unusual to find this detailing has not been added to the model, considering CCM are so critical of the fine details. |
This is another interesting addition to the growing range of 1:48th scale historic replicas from Classic Construction models. The model is very securely packed in a sturdy, quality cardboard box with two section polystyrene inner and comes complete with a printed card that provides some details on the full sized machine along with the serial number of the model and a signature.
