Liebherr L580 Log Handler
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr L580 log handler from NZG. When it comes to wood handling, the interesting design of the L580 log handler certainly gives the machine a rather unique and unusual appearance. Specially designed for vertical lifting, it can unload timber carrying trucks with ease while the 360 degree rotating grapple allows precision placement of the load.
The front chassis frame has an adjustable hydraulically powered stump ram with an articulating frame powered by functioning hydraulics offering a good range of steering movement. The tyres have a very crisply moulded tread pattern with metal wheel hubs showing fixing bolt detailing.
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The engine housing has very nicely cast intricate grille detailing on both sides with accurately scaled metal safety railings and grab handles. The wheel arches have plastic extension pieces with a diamond textured covering on the rear counterweight which extends out at the rear with integrated tow eyes. The rear engine panel has decorated lights with a highlighted handle and rear facing camera with a black plastic exhaust pipe rising from the top of the engine compartment. |
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The cabin has been faithfully reproduced with a replicated interior showing the drivers seat and steering wheel. A roof window is present, complete with protective screen while rear view mirrors with silvered surfaces are attached to the cab frame where a grab rail runs around the sides and rear of the upper cab, topped with an amber warning beacon |
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The curved front windscreen is done well with black printing of the window seals and white printing of the Liebherr name across the front. A windscreen wiper has also been installed for added effect.
The main loader arms have a very good range of movement with integrated protective grills for cabin protection and protective covers over the hydraulic pistons. Work light housings are integrated into the sides of the loader arms with the Liebherr name clearly printed.
The grapple has 360 degree rotation with wide opening jaws and integrated inner clamping jaws which are functional, mounted to the arms on a pivoting linkage. Flexible hoses have been added to the hydraulic cylinders and the grapple is stiff enough to hold a full load of logs, as pictured below.
The paint finish is to NZG's usual high standards, allowing all the surface casting details to show through while the markings are crisply printed and look authentic. This is another great addition to the Liebherr range and it is great to see one of the more unusual machines modelled.
