Hitachi Sumitomo SCX1500A-3 Crawler Crane

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Hitachi Sumitomo SCX1500A-3 crawler crane which has been produced in China. The model is highly detailed and comes in component form, just like the real crane allowing it to be displayed in transport configuration.

The SCX1500A-3 is rated at 150 tonne at 4.5 metre and is powered by a new generation Izuzu Stage IIIB compliant diesel engine. It will receive its European debut at the 2013 Bauma and is suitable for civil engineering, material handling and construction applications with a boom length from 15 to 75 metres and an optional jib length between 10 and 28 metres.

The 1:50th scale model is presented with the minimum 15 metre boom configuration and all the parts needed to erect the crane, from individual track frames, counterweights, undercarriage weights and mast sections.

The rear counterweight sections consist of the main base plate which bolts onto the superstructure along with five main sections and an upper section which also has cast simulated lifting eyes. Two additional undercarriage ballast plates are also included and connect to the undercarriage once assembled.

The two boom sections included in the box allow the crane to be constructed into the heavy lift version of the crane, with metal latticework looking very authentic and strong. The two boom sections are connected together with plastic pins which are tight enough to stay in position.

Out of the box, the main body and undercarriage frame are connected together and four pivoting arms are connected to the undercarriage to allow the model to simulate the self fixing of the track frames. Four pads are provided which located with the four jacking legs which are adjustable by rotating them, raising the entire crane body.

The track frames connect easily to the undercarriage with four long plastic pins locking them into position. The all metal construction of the track frames and individually linked track pads gives the model a nice heavy feel with very nice cast detailing on each track pad and tensioned idlers keeping the tracks taut while allowing them to rotate smoothly.

The insides of the track frames have integrated steps allowing easy access up to the upper carriage while the front surfaces have good structural detailing.

Once the track frames are positioned, the undercarriage ballast plates lock into place onto the pivoting arms used to raise the crane. Once fitted, the rear counterweight tray can be positioned and again locks into position using two plastic pins. The printing of the Hitachi Sumitomo name and safety warning labels is crisp and clear, as are the graphics on the sides of the body.

The entire cabin is fastened to the upper carriage on a rotating joint, allowing the cab to rotate through 90 degrees with front and side access platforms, scaled grab rails with rear view mirror, front and roof windscreen wipers and printed window seals all adding to the level of realism. The cabin interior has been authentically modelled with the driver's seat, control housing and controls visible through the clearly glazed windows.

Three winding keys are included and locate into the holes in the side of the upper body. The side panel casting has some very crisp detailing with all the panels highlighted with very nicely inset door handles which look authentic. Metal grab rails are located along the upper edge of the body with access steps leading up to the upper works, again fitted with authentically scaled safety railings which also include clip on safety mirrors.

The rear counterweight sections fit onto each other and once assembled, two plastic rods pass through the holes to keep them in position. Metal walkways are integrated into the body castings and run along the length of the upper works, all having a finely textured anti-slip upper surface.

Assembly of the boom is straight forward with single piece pulleys used on the A-frame. The instructions suggest using only four passes of the rope to allow the boom to move easily during raising and lowering and this works very well, with the rear most winch controlling the movement while preventing the boom from lowering on its own.

Two main lifting winches are installed and pre-wound with rope with the front-most winch used to operate the hook block which has a five sheaves, again produced as a single piece. Reeving the hook does take a little patience as the rope needs to pass under the small metal guides but once rigged, the hook is fairly heavy and has enough weight to allow it to lower as the winch is operated.

The paint finish is of a very high quality and finish with an even coat allowing all the casting detail to be seen. The graphics on the body sides are authentically applied with small safety labels on the counterweight tray and direction arrows found on the track frames.

The model is produced primarily of metal and has a nice heavy feel with plastic only used for for small detailing parts like the self fit mirrors, access ladder and the pins used for assembly. The model is now available from the Hitachi Webshop although there are limited quantities available so ordering early is advised.