Liebherr LH24 Material Handler
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr LH24 material handler which has been produced by Conrad. The LH24 M wheeled handler offers a reach of over 12 metres with different stick options allowing for different work tools to be utilised including clamshell buckets, magnets, 5-tine grabs and sorting grapples. Based on a chassis with 4-point outriggers for stability and a power-shift transmission propelling the machine to a maximum speed of 20km/h, the latest Stage IIIB 4-cylinder diesel engine generates 143hp and the new generation cabin offers excellent comfort.
As with the Liebherr A920, this is another new release from Conrad which has more fine detailing than usually found on a Conrad model, resulting in a very convincing replica while still having the Conrad fundamentals of excellent engineering and a heavy weight.
The undercarriage features dual mounted tyres that have a crisply moulded tread pattern with four point outriggers that are strong enough to allow the model to be posed with the wheels raised off the ground. Another nice feature of the outriggers are the protective covers over the rams. The steering axle is functional and the wheel hubs have good surface casting detail while new silver finished steps are integrated into the sides of the chassis along with a storage box.
The cabin has been constructed entirely of plastic unlike previous Liebherr models and as such, all the windows are flush. Printing has been used to highlight the window seals and windscreen wiper while grab rails and rear view mirrors are fitted to the frame.
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With a roof window, small radio aerial and 20km/h speed rating printed on the rear window, Conrad has shown excellent attention to detail. The hydraulically elevating cabin is fairly level throughout the full range of movement, dipping slightly when fully lowered. Flexible hose detailing has been added to the linkage behind the cab and the hydraulic is stiff enough to set the cabin at any height required. |
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The spacious cabin interior has been authentically captured, with a clearly visible drivers seat, joystick controls and steering wheel.
The printing of the side engine grille panels has been done very well, with the pattern looking very authentic while metal safety and grab rails have been added to the service areas and a self fit side safety mirror needs installing on the upper body.
The rear body casting accurately captures the curves and light insets of the full sized machine with highlighted panel handles and printed warning labels for added realism.
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One of the most striking features of the model is the addition of fixed and flexible hydraulic piping which really does add to the realistic appearance of the model. All the hydraulic cylinders have integrated piping and the smooth motion feels great, while the stiffness allows any pose to be chosen. The stick is fitted with a 360 degree rotating sorting grapple with opening jaws and added flexible piping. |
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The paint finish is of a high standard with fine printing of the Liebherr markings and engine grilles. The model is shown below in a typical stance, loading a 3-axle MAN tipper truck, also produced by Conrad.
