Doosan DA40 Articulated Dump Truck
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Doosan DA40 articulated dump truck from Clover World. Doosan models have previously been produced in the larger 1:40th scale so it is refreshing that the latest releases have been produced in the more recognised 1:50th scale.
The Doosan DA40 has an 18 cubic metre HB400 tipping body and permanent six-wheel drive which ensures stability for the most demanding job sites. Powered by a Scania DC13 six-cylinder diesel engine offering a power output of 500hp, the sloping rear frame gives better weight distribution with semi-independent hydro-pneumatic front suspension for exceptional traction.
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The model is fitted with a pivoting tailgate which raises up as the body rises using small chains connected to arms extending from the chassis. This works very well with a smooth operation although the hydraulics are a little slack.
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The rear wheels are mounted to a pivoting tandem bogie assembly which has some bolt fixing details on the inside drive housing. The range of movement of the suspension is very good and this is highlighted with the included plastic display base which has some raised areas to allow the model to be placed to show the great manoeuvrability. |
The underside of the chassis is rather plain but there is a drive-shaft to the rear drive housing and hydraulics are fitted between the front and rear chassis offering a fairly good range of steering movement while also allowing rotational movement of the joint. The connection is nice and tight so there is no wobble and the front suspension frame has also been modelled.
The rear of the model has a light housing integrated into the dump body with painted brake and reversing lenses added for extra realism. The rubber tyres have an authentic tread pattern and rotate freely, topped with orange wheel hubs.
The cabin has been modelled well with flush fitting windows and painted simulated window seals giving the model a more realistic appearance. The interior has been replicated with the driving seat, steering wheel and contoured dashboard all visible within.
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The front grill has a nicely cast textured surface with raised Doosan name highlighted in white across the front. The safety railings are made of a stiff plastic which helps them to retain rigidity with integrated rear view mirrors with a painted surface. |
The black printing of the anti-slip mats and front cut-outs are applied well with the lower part of the access ladders also painted black to simulate the rigid rubber bottom step of the full sized truck, complete with silver highlighted step surfaces. The rear window has fine mesh printing to simulate the safety screen and this is crisply done. The silver painted exhaust stack has a dimpled surface texture with black highlighting of the tailpipe tip. |
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The paint finish is good throughout with crisp printing of the Doosan name, machine designation and side engine panel decoration. While not as refined as some of the latest releases from well known model makers, the DA40 is a great addition to the Doosan model range and is accompanied by the Doosan DX700LC tracked excavator (Pictured below) which has also been produced in 1:50th scale.
