Doosan DX700LC Tracked Excavator

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Doosan DX700LC tracked excavator which has been produced by Clover World. The DX700 tops the scales at 73.5 ton with a 6 cylinder common rail Isuzu diesel engine delivering over 460hp with EPOS (Electronic Power Optimising System) hydraulics with auto-idle and four selectable operating modes for excellent fuel efficiency. With a bucket capacity from 2.5 to 4.5 cubic metres, the DX700 is capable of loading the DA40 articulated dump truck in four to six passes.

The overall appearance of the model is reasonable and it is great to add a 70+ ton machine to the model range although when looking closer, there are some aspects of the model which could have been improved, like the plastic track pads which are linked in a rather interesting way. To be honest, they don't look that bad but are certainly not to the standard of today's latest releases.

The body casting authentically captures the shape of the machine with textured ridges for the cooling grills and inset access steps leading to the upper body. The plastic safety railings have been added and are quite stiff so remain in position. Platforms with a dimpled surface run along both sides of the upper carriage with grab rails fitted above the door panels on the body sides.

The cab detail is good with a modelled interior which is visible through the clearly glazed windows. Grey paint has been used to highlight the window seals which look good and are crisply applied. The safety grab rail is a little thick and has an integrated rear view mirror.

Flexible hydraulic hoses have been added to the model and they have a ridged texture simulating armoured hosing which is nice to see.

The bucket looks good with wear plate detailing on the bottom of the bucket and five large teeth.

The range of movement of the digging equipment is very good, authentically capturing that of the original although the rivets used to connect the moving parts have large heads which have not been painted so stand out.

The upper engine cover is hinged and can be opened to reveal a rather plain looking engine block.

The paint finish is good throughout with crisp printing of the Doosan name on the boom and counterweight with the machine designation along the sides and safety labels on the rear. The DX700 is a welcome addition to the Doosan model range and is accompanied by the Doosan DA40 articulated dump truck (Pictured below) which has also been produced in 1:50th scale.