Hitachi Zaxis ZH200 HYBRID+ Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Hitachi Zaxis ZH200 HYBRID+ tracked excavator from Replicars. The model is based on the ZX210-5 with different graphic decoration on the body sides and counterweight while sharing the same castings.
For a small model, the cabin interior has been authentically captured in great detail, from the two tone colour scheme, complete with coloured roof panel and textured flooring to the contoured seat with printed Hitachi name across the seat back. The hydraulic safety lever is highlighted and the shaped consoles on each side of the seat are topped with the joystick controls. Even an accurately scaled handle has been inserted on the inside of the opening door for total realism, with all the glazed windows having printed window seals.
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The upper deck has excellent and crisp casting of the anti-slip safety panels which are highlighted in black. Crisp printing of the warning labels are found on the counterweight along with the Hitachi name while the rear view camera housing is centrally located.
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The engine compartment on the model is equally well replicated with the diesel engine and cooling systems visible beneath the opening engine cover, which again has an intricate metal handle. |
The undercarriage has good detailing of the lower rollers which are cast into the lower section of the track frames with tensioned idler wheels giving enough tension on the individually linked track pads to keep them taut, while still allowing smooth movement. The drive sprockets are nicely detailed and small markings are printed on the front faces of the frames along with two access steps.
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The excellent levels of realism continue on the boom where the fixed hydraulic pipe work is raised from the surface with connection valves highlighted in silver and flexible hoses connected to the main hydraulic housing. Piping has also been added between the boom and stick for the bucket cylinder and this has an intricate armoured hose which really looks authentic. The range of movement of the boom, stick and bucket linkage are excellent with smooth operating cylinders allowing the model to be posed as desired. |
The bucket has been connected with metal bolts which allows it to be removed and replaced with another work tool and this is a nice addition. All the other connections use rivets with painted ends to make them blend in. |
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A small bag is found inside the box which contains two mirrors which need fitting to the model. There are no instructions on where these should go, so reference to the specs of the full sized machine were used in the placement. Both clip onto the accurately scaled safety grab rails connected to the cab frame and on the opposite side of the body.
Another nice feature on the model is the hydraulic pump housing which has been replicated and sits centrally behind the boom. The paint finish on the model is excellent throughout with an even coating allowing the casting details to show through. Printing of the machine's designations and the Hitachi logos are all excellent and the model is surprisingly heavy for it's size, with most of the parts made from metal with plastic only used where needed to add the extra detailing. The model is now available from the Hitachi Merchandising Webshop.
