Hitachi ZW310-5 Wheel Loader
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Hitachi ZW310-5 wheel loader from Replicars. The model features some nice fine detailing although it is not quite as refined as the excavator models from Replicars with an absence of hydraulic hoses and opening cabin door. Despite this, the model is a very welcome addition to the growing Hitachi replica range.
The cab interior can be seen through the clearly glazed windows all round with a blue decorated driver's seat and light grey interior. The driver's steering controls are visible with authentically scaled grab rails fitted to the cab frame, complete with integrated rear view mirrors.
The platforms on each side of the chassis have a textured anti-slip upper surface with access ladders on both sides. The articulated chassis has a reasonable range of steering movement with hydraulic pistons visible although there are no hydraulic hoses or drive-shaft between the front and rear chassis sections.
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The tyres on the loader have a crisply moulded tread pattern with wheel hubs clearly showing the bolt fixing details. |
The loader arms with Z-bar linkage raise to a realistic height allowing the model to be posed loading trucks while the tipping angle of the bucket authentically captures the range of movement of the original. |
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All the pins used to assemble the loader arms and linkage are of a friction fit design so there are no large rivet heads seen, adding to the realistic appearance with orange painted tips on the hydraulic lift rams. It is a pity the end of the bucket ram was not painted orange for consistency.
The rear of the model has been nicely done with the rear grill allowing the radiator and cooling fan detailing within to be seen while rear facing light housings are located on the engine sides, complete with painted lenses. The rear counterweight has an interesting shape with a modelled non-functional towing frame and plastic mud flaps and fitted to the wheel arches.
The paint finish is of a high standard with an even coating allowing all the surface casting details to show through. The printing of the Hitachi name and machine designation is crisp and clear. The model is available from the Hitachi Merchandising Webshop.
