Hitachi Zaxis ZX1000K-3 2PB
Presented here is the long awaited Hitachi ZX1000K-3 2PB demolition spec tracked excavator in 1:50th scale from NZG. This is a very impressive model which accurately captures the rather unique appearance of the ZX1000, configured with a short, triple articulating boom and large crusher attachment. One very interesting option on the model is the ability to easily remove the track frames. The undercarriage has four pivoting arms with extending pads which are used to lift the entire machine off the ground so the track frames can be removed for transport
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As well as removable track frames, there are four counterweight sections which fit into the couterweight tray fitted to the rear of the model. This tray is topped with accurately scaled metal safety railings which are also found at the front of the upper structure. |
The cab fitted to the model has some very good detailing including the front and roof protection screens which have crisply cast grooves with an integrated grab rail and rear view mirror. Front and side mounted access walkways have been added and have an anti-slip textured surface although they cannot be removed and detracts a little when the model is broken down into its transport configuration.
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The cooling fan housing with a radial pattern is visible from the access walkway which runs along the middle of the upper structure. A nice touch on the model is the opening service door which gives access to the walkway whilst the top surfaces of the body panels have printed black strips simulating the anti-slip panels found on the full sized machine. |
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The main hydraulic distribution block has been modelled with flexible hydraulic piping fitted to the back and sides of the main boom with the slewing motor housing located beneath.
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The boom is supplied seperately in the box and connects to the model with the use of two metal pins. Once connected, the flexible plastic hydraulic lines need to be inserted into the pre-drilled holes. This can be a pain as they tend to keep popping out so a touch of wood glue works a treat to keep them in place.
The crusher features 360 degree rotation with flexible plastic hoses adding to the level of realism while the manufacturers name and crusher type is embossed onto the sides. |
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The crusher attachment connected to the stick is a very nicely cast item with crisp structural detailing on the surfaces along with bolt fixing panels whilst the jaws have structural ribbing and chamfered cutting edges. The large hydraulic pistons that operate the jaws are very stiff and the crusher can be set up from fully closed (pictured below) to fully open (pictured right). |
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We have been waiting a while for this model to be released and I have to say that it is worth the wait. The hydraulics are stiff enough to allow the boom and stick to be positioned as required and the ability to strip down the model into a transport configuration is a nice touch. The model is supplied in a large, two piece polystyrene carton with printed outer box and the same carton is also used for the high reach boom version of the ZX1000K. A special version of the model with both booms in the same box has been produced for the Japanese market.
At first glance, the base models supplied with both version of the model appear to be the same, however, the superstructure of the high reach boom version is heavier to help cater for the added weight of the long reach boom.