Komatsu PC400LC Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the limited edition 1:50th scale Komatsu PC400LC tracked excavator from Universal Hobbies, fitted with a demolition attachment instead of a bucket. The model is identical to the previously released PC400LC-8 with the exception of the attachment although the tilting cab with full debris protection is more typical with a demolition tool rather than bucket and this no longer looks out of place.
There is no denying that the level of detail is fantastic, as it usually is from Universal Hobbies but, with the larger models, the quality of assembly is rather poor with loose hydraulics, restricted movement and, on the sample reviewed here, very loose hydraulic pistons.
The cab interior is finely detailed with all controls visible through the clear windows, including the Komatsu logo on the seat. The cab can be tilted to about 15 degrees although there is no resistance so it does not stay tilted and for a standard boomed excavator, this doesn't look quite right. The cab exterior has windscreen wipers, lights, grab rails, access steps and rear view mirrors fitted and there is a warning beacon fitted on the roof along with debris protection for the front and roof windows.
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The hydraulic pipework from the pumps to the cylinders looks great with all the check valve detail added, along with silver painted additional piping on the back of the boom. |
The demolition attachment (Identical to the tool fitted to the long reach PC450LC-8) is made of plastic so is light enough to allow the boom to remain raised without drooping. |
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The jaws of the demolition tool can be opened and the body has 360 degree rotation with flexible hydraulic piping added. The concrete processor looks fairly realistic although it lacks a little detail.
The paint finish is fair although the assembly is still lacking a little in attention to detail, requiring a touch of glue here and there to secure loose parts. The model is listed as being limited to only 500 pieces.
