Kramer Allrad 850 Wheel Loader

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Kramer Allrad 850 wheel loader from Universal Hobbies. The 850 wheel loader weighs in at 4500kg with a Deutz D2011 L4W 4-cylinder diesel engine generating 61hp with hydrostatic four wheel steering and a bucket capacity between 0.85 and 1.4 cubic metres. Several Kramer models have been released recently from Universal Hobbies and each one is brimming with fine detailing, capturing all the realism of the full sized machines.

The rigid chassis features linked steering of the front and rear axles with a limited amount of movement. Considering the size of the model, this is not bad and demonstrates the steering ability of the full sized machine. The tyres have a well defined tread pattern with silver wheel hubs and black highlighted centres. Even a spot of red paint has been added to each hub for added effect.

The curved rear body has been cast well with integrated towing hitch detailing whilst the enclosed cab has a fully replicated interior with the steering wheel and joystick controls all visible. Black paint has been used to highlight the window seals, door hinges and handle which is a nice touch with windscreen wipers fitted to the front and rear windows along with rear view mirrors, integrated grab rails and both front and rear facing work lights added to the roof. Even the brake and indicator lights have been added to the rear frame of the cab, complete with painted red and orange lenses.

The front 4-in-1 bucket has been modelled with accurately shaped teeth along the front edge and a stiff opening action allowing the bucket to be fully posed. The linkage works well with flexible piping going to the simulated quick coupler. The range of tip of the linkage is very good and the loader arms can raise to a good height. The use of fixed and flexible hydraulic piping really adds realism to the model and considering its small size, Universal Hobbies have done a good job throughout. The paint finish is very good with crisp markings on the body and loader arms.

The model is fixed to a plastic base with removable clear plastic cover and can be removed by unscrewingthe two fixing screws and removing the wire ties. This is a good way of packaging the model and is less likely to be damaged during shipping. The 850 joins the recently released 350 wheel loaders (pictured below) which make a great addition to any collection.