JCB JS220LR "Long Reach" Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the updated 1:50th scale JCB JS220LR "Long Reach" tracked excavator from Motorart. The model is an update of the previously released long reach model with updated decals and paint scheme. As with the previous version, the bucket fitted to the model is on the small side and looks very weedy and this was certainly a point of contention with collectors on the original model. However, while most collectors would expect a larger bucket to be fitted, it would depend on the application of the long reach machine and, JCB state that the JS220 long reach is typically suited for waterways maintenance, so the bucket size is likely to be smaller than for material extraction duties. Thanks to Randy Smolenack for raising this point.
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The body casting detail consists of engine grills, panel handles, fuel outlet and raised walkway grip pattern. The hand rails are well proportioned and while made of plastic, they look fairly realistic. The engine compartment is accessible by opening the top engine cover, revealing the JCB engine and associated components. On the updated version, the engine cover is the same yellow colour as the body unlike the black cover on the original. |
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The operators cab has been faithfully reproduced with lights, windscreen wipers and even an aerial mounted on the rear roof. Inside the cab, there are plenty of details including foot pedals, track movement levers and hydraulic cutoff lever. The seat even has the JCB logo printed on it which is a nice touch. The rear counterweight is decorated in the new corporate livery with larger JCB markings, adding a little more black to the overall machine.
The boom and stick are fully enclosed and are assembled with the use of grip pins. The boom has flexible hydraulic pipework added which gives the model a much more realistic look. The cylinders themselves are not too stiff but there is enough resistance to be able to position the model as desired although the boom is a little heavy and may gradually lower. Another nice addition is the black transport bar which can be rotated down to link the boom and stick together. There is also a protection block on the back of the stick to protect against damage when in the fully lowered position just like the real machine.
The paint finish of the model is supperb, as is now expected from Motorart. The markings are very crisp and help to make the model stand out. All the markings are accurately produced and finish off the model well.