DAF XF 4-axle truck with Fassi F1300 Crane & Nooteboom Trailer

WSI Models have been working on a new range of knuckle boom cranes including the Fassi F1300XP presented here. Fassi is an Italian company which specialise in the development and production of various lifting solutions and the F1300XP is from their heavy lift range, offering a lifting capacity of 95 tonne and a maximum outreach of 31.85 metres with jib.

The model has accurately captured all the functionality of the full sized unit very well, with new extrusion production techniques used to produce the very thin all-metal boom sections which are complimented with working hydraulic cylinders for total realism.

The crane realistically folds within the profile of the truck chassis and has all the tanks and control housing modelled, complete with hydraulic cooler.

The main lift hydraulics are very stiff which allows the crane to hold a chosen position and the telescopic boom extends well while feeling firm although this is delicate so care is needed while adjusting it.

The model is supplied with the optional jib extension which replaces the outermost boom section by unclipping the hydraulic piston and this works well, offering many more display possibilities. Again, this part is fragile so care needs to be taken when adjusting it to prevent damage.

The front outriggers are three-stage telescopic with pivoting jack legs which have extending jacks with internal screw thread to look authentic. Tiny metal pins are used to keep the jacks locked in their travel or working position and tiny printed warning labels have also been added.

The rear outriggers integrated into the chassis frame are two-stage extending with lowering jack legs. Small circular pads and several square mats are included in the box for total realism

The crane is mounted to a DAF XF 8x4 chassis which has all the usual fine detailing expected from WSI from the replicated suspension and drive-train detailing on the underside of the chassis to the fully modelled cabin interior.

The front of the cabin has a very finely detailed front grille with inset glazed lenses integrated into the contoured lower body panel. The cabin tilts forward to reveal the detailed engine block and radiator beneath, complete with piping.

This version also comes with a 3-axle Nooteboom OSDS-48-03V semi low loader trailer with hydraulic ramps for a very impressive heavy haulage replica. The raised front deck of the trailer has a number of holes where the various parts can be connected. The two side sections are printed with the Fassi name and the rear section can be omitted, allowing the upper deck to be used as a storage area or as extra deck space depending on the load being carried.

Fold down rear stabilisers help to keep the trailer level during loading operations and this is functional on the model. The main loading ramps are modelled on the folding 5 foot design and this mechanism has been authentically engineered on the model with a metal bar operating to unfold the ramp as the hydraulic lowers. Safety locking chains are included and connect with the pin cast into the outer side of the ramp.

The tyres have an accurate tread pattern moulded into them and are fitted to silver coloured wheel hubs. Pull out safety boards with a red and white chevron pattern are fitted beneath the deck and slide out smoothly whilst two separate safety panels are supplied which fit into the holes at the rear of the trailer to warn of extra wide loads. These are also stored in holders integrated into the gooseneck at the front of the trailer.

The construction and attention to detail on the development of the Fassi F1300 crane is fantastic with everything considered and modelled. This is sure to appear in numerous forms on a variety of trucks and heavy haulage sets in the coming months and years.