Liebherr LTM1050-3.1 Mobile Crane
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr LTM1050-3.1 mobile crane from WSI. This is the first mobile crane WSI have produced and, considering the detail they put into their truck models, it is no surprise that they have released a stunning looking model that is full of detail.
The LTM1050-3.1 is powered by a 367hp six-cylinder turbo-diesel Liebherr engine with a 12 speed ZF gearbox with AS-TRONIC control system and hydro-pneumatic suspension. WSI have produced a stunning replica of this 50 ton capacity crane with details and functionality never before seen on a mass produced model.
The rear of the model has a large, non opening storage box with diamond plate textured sides along with an open frame structure securely fixed to the rear body panel. Light clusters have been added with amber, red and white coloured lenses with an accurately placed numberplate and centrally located towing hitch.
The underside of the model shows all the detail of the drivetrain from the all-wheel drive axles to the gearbox and engine block. The suspension works with good oscillation and each axle has independent steering allowing various steering modes to be demonstrated including crab steer.
|
|
The wheel hubs show some very crisp detailing with a very accurate and intricate moulded tread pattern on the rubber tyres. Above the wheels are simulated rubber guards with access steps integrated into the sides of the chassis leading up to the deck, complete with small grab rails for added realism.
The jacks themselves have the screw thread hidden within giving them a realistic piston appearance with each arm extending smoothly from the chassis giving the model a sturdy base. Another nice touch is that the base plates are also supplied with the model. |
|
One of the most stunning features of the model are the stabilisers which have been modelled with a fully functional sliding pad which can be adjusted to allow the pads to fold within the profile of the crane during travelling. When setting up into a lifting confuguration, the pin in each sliding bracket is removed, allowing the jack to be positioned dead centre before being locked into place. |
|
|
|
The front cab has a fully replicated interior which can be seen through the clear glazed windows with the driving controls highlighted with paint along with painted seats and control panel. The cab frame has three windscreen wipers and a roof mounted amber beacon with fitted rear view mirrors whilst main driving and indicator lights have been integrated into the front frame, just like the full sized machine with a number plate and front shackle where the hook can be connected when set up in transport mode.
The engine conpartment behind the cab features fine etched panels with a chromed exhaust stack and dimples to locate the additional counterweight sections. The main deck has a realistic looking silver highlighted diamond plate texture with tiny warning and safety labels printed all along the main body and chassis frame demonstrating the exacting level of realism that is found throughout the model.
|
The swing out two section luffing jib can be dismantled by removing the two plastic strips allowing the small jib to be used (pictured left) although there are no instructions supplied on exactly how this should be fitted. |
|
|
|
The three telescoping boom sections lock into place when fully extended with a grey painted lower section on each along with a simulated safety lifting system connected to the rope which has been fully reeved for quick and easy set-up. Changing the hook block from the main to the juffing jib is made easy as the rope securing bracket can be unpinned which is another example of the thought that has gone into this model.
The rear frame has flexible hydraulic piping with a tilting cab which has a fully replicated interior with display screens, seat and controls all visible with more tiny safety labels printed onto the door and rear cab mounting along with silver grab rails fitted to both sides of the cab frame.
The four counterweight sections push fit together with the top-most one having the Liebherr name embossed into the surface while the others have cast dimples simulating the lifting lugs. The rear of the upper structure has twin amber beacons with a pivoting rear panel, fixed side counterweights and a working winch integrated into the frame with a winding key supplied to aid in operating the winch.
As detail goes, this is certainly one of the most realistic and detailed crane models so far produced and shows the intentions of WSI to carry over the amazing detail of their truck models into their crane and construction replicas. The paint finish is excellent throughout with all the details in the castings clearly visible and the small safety and warning markings located throughout the model are amazing, considering their size. In my opinion, this is a must have model for any crane or Liebherr fan and i cannot wait to see what further Liebherr models WSI produce in the future.
