Grove RT540E Rough Terrain Crane
Presented here is the latest release in the series of Grove precision scale replica models. The 1:50th scale RT540E rough terrain crane features a host of fine detailing throughout which demonstrates the high level of engineering and attention to detail that TWH Collectibles put into each and every release.
|
|
The four large outrigger arms extend from the chassis and while they are a little tight, this helps greatly in ensuring that once the pads have been lowered, the arms remain perfectly horizontal with no noticeable droop. The jacks have been constructed with the screw thread hidden inside which makes the pistons look very realistic. Yellow chevron warning markings and tiny safety labels have also been added. |
The underside of the model reveals even more fine detailing including the drive train from the transfer casing to the front and rear axles. Various hydraulic hoses have been added and both axles feature functional steering allowing a number of posing possibilities. The moulded rubber tyres have a very distinct and crisply cast tread pattern with white wheel hubs and black centres.
|
The rear of the chassis houses the engine compartment with access steps, metal grab rails and towing loops all visible. The light housing has been integrated into the frame and a photo etch grill with a honeycombed style pattern is utilised at the rear of the engine bay to protect the cooling systems
The battery compartment can be opened to reveal the moulded batteries with flexible piping also visible. Side mounted access steps are found on both sides of the chassis giving easy access to the operators cab. |
|
|
The exhaust stack is protected with a photo etched jacket which really does give the model a more realistic and lifelike appearance and the side engine cover can be opened to reveal the engine components packed into the engine bay. |
|
|
|
The large, angled counterweight fitted to the upper carriage frame has a photo etched grill on the rear surface with two winches mounted into the frame. The upper surfaces have a black printed surface to simulate the anti slip panels found on the real machine, complete with black painted grab rail.
One of the most striking features on the model is the hydraulic distribution block which has been fully modeled with silver check valves and both fixed and flexible hydraulic piping traveling to the replicated hydraulic winch and slewing motors. All this detail is hidden behind the removable access panel and this level of detail and realism is what makes TWH models stand out.
The cab has been very nicely modeled with patterned floor panel, sliding cab door and all the controls accurately placed. Safety and operating instructions are printed on the side window with several grab rails strategically positioned for safe cab access. Even the fire extinguisher has been added along with a printed safety mesh screen on the inside window along with highlighted rubber window seals and both front and roof mounted windscreen wipers all adding to the realistic appearance.
|
|
The four section telescoping boom extends smoothly with nice detailing of each section. The boom lift hydraulic is just about stiff enough to hold the boom in the air with a hole drilled into the cylinder to allow the boom to be secured in the raised position with a small pin.
|
|
The swing out jib is stored on the side of the boom and fits well in this position. When the pin is removed from the boom head to extend the boom, the jib becomes very loose and does not pose correctly once the boom is raised. The jib can be extended by removing the pin and re-fastening it once the inner jib section has been fully extended. |
There are two identical hooks supplied with the model. One hook is already fitted to the front winch and reeved through the pulleys on the boom head while the second hook is supplied separately in the box. There is also a load sensing device attached by a fine metal chain which is a nice touch, although on the model reviewed here, the hook has a tendency to twist due to the way it has been reeved.
This is a highly detailed and very realistic looking replica of a popular machine, securely packed in a two section polystyrene carton with printed cardboard box. A booklet is supplied with the model which details the specifications of the machine along with a colour leaflet detailing the assembly steps. The model reviewed here is the striking limited edition Bigge version which is available exclusively from DHS Diecasts.
