Komatsu D475A Dozer

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Komatsu D475A-5EO bulldozer from First Gear, modelled on the full sized machine which weighs in at 108390kg. Powered by the Komatsu SAA12V140E-3 engine which delivers an impressive 890 HP at 2000 rpm, the tractor is equally capable in both ripping and dozing operations with a new hexagonal cab design offering a spacious interior and excellent visibility.

Once again, First Gear have done a great job in bringing the details and functional aspects of the machine to life. The K-Bogie mounted track frames have great detailing of the panels and covers, complete with bolt fixing details. The rollers are mounted to pivoting housings which allow the model to demonstrate the suspension system deployed and the rollers rotate freely, as do the drive and idler wheels. The single grouser linked metal tracks are tensioned and run smoothly.

The front grill has a dimpled texture representing the small cooling holes with front facing floodlights mounted above the engine bay. The main lift hydraulics allow the blade to travel up and down with plenty of movement while both fixed and flexible plastic hosing has been added for added realism.

The cab interior is visible through the clear windows with hand controls and the central console all replicated. Accurately scaled grab rails have been added to the cab frame with windscreen wipers located on the door and rear windows. Four angled light housings are located on the roof with painted lenses, topped with the rugged ROPs frame.

The air intakes and exhausts are aligned on the upper engine compartment with the various panels having intricate grill texture cast into the surfaces. Grab rails are mounted strategically throughout the model, replicating the full sized machine with crisp printing of the komatsu logos and machine designation on the body sides.

The rear of the model has a single shank ripper assembly fitted. The hydraulics allow the ripper shank to lower and the angle can be changed but the range of movement does not allow the ripper to lower fully. The frame has an integrated push block and a simulated pin lock but the shank cannot be adjusted. The ends of the hydraulic cylinders have bolt head detailing which looks great and flexible hydraulic hoses have been added.

The blade is enormous with a nicely implemented top guard and angled sides. The dual tilt cylinders operate, allowing the angle of the blade to be adjusted and the cutting edge has fixing detailing cast into the surface.

The model is painted in authentic Komatsu colours with an even coat allowing the casting details to be clearly visible. The model is reasonably heavy but there are some parts of the model which are made from plastic and the colour match is slightly off, so these parts do tend to be more noticable. A limited edition version of the model has also been produced in a white decoration with blue highlighting. Another fine release from First Gear.