Liebherr LTM1400 Mobile Crane
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr LTM1400 8-axle mobile crane in Mammoet decoration from YCC. YCC is considered the pinnacle when it comes to producing exceptionally detailed and functional crane models and the Liebherr LTM1400 is another stunning replica. With a high price tag, there has to be something special in the box and I have to say you cannot help to be impressed with the quality and attention to detail found throughout the model.
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The chassis consists of 8 axles with the rear pair steering, and the front four axles steering with the remaining 2 axles fixed. The steering is linked and fairly loose, so the wheels can look a little out of shape. This is probably the only criticism on the entire model. |
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The box includes everything needed to set up the crane, with crane mats, ballast plates, a choice of storage box or spare wheel, and numerous small pins to secure everything together. |
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The crane’s upper structure houses the main winch with a secondary winch housed in a detachable rear frame which is also the connection point for the main ballast plates. This secures to the body and has flexible hydraulic lines for added realism. The ballast plates then lock into position with small pins.
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At the rear of the chassis, there is an area where the storage cabinet can be connected, or alternatively, a spare wheel with mounting bracket. The doors to the cabinet can be opened which is a nice touch, again staying closed thanks to a tiny magnet. |
The front cabin features opening doors on both sides which reveal the spacious interior, with a good replication of the driver’s station and passenger area. Behind the cabin, the engine housing has two hinged upper covers which open to reveal a part replicated engine block which is painted silver.
One nice touch throughout the model is that tiny magnets are used on all the opening compartments to keep the doors closed. On both sides of the chassis behind the engine area, hydraulic lifts are fitted, each holding two of the square stabiliser pads which are also magnetic so remain in position. This is fully operational on the model, allowing the pads to be lowered to ground level or raised into the storage position.
The four outriggers are two-stage telescopic with screw down jacks and this all operates smoothly, allowing the entire model to be raised off its wheels. The upper deck of the chassis has four silver photo-etched ladders which have hinges, with each one able to rotate and then fold down giving access to the upper works. This is a very nice addition to the model.
The crane cabin is mounted to an arm which can be rotated through 180 degrees, allowing the cab to fit within the profile of the chassis during transport to the jobsite. The cab has a sliding side door and there is the option to fit the front windscreen either open, or closed.
The entire platform the cab is mounted on can be tilted to give a better view when working at height and this is hydraulically powered and holds at the chosen angle. The interior of the cab is fully kitted out and fine detailing is also found under the hinged panels on both sides of the superstructure which can be lifted to reveal the raised surface and painted components.
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The telescopic boom is raised with two large lift cylinders that have grub screws, allowing the angle of the boom to be secured. Each telescopic section extends smoothly once the sprung loaded side locking pins are twisted to release the boom. This is a very nice touch to the model and works very well. |
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A frame is connected to the top of the boom with more hydraulics used to raise it into position where a winch on the main structure runs rope through the pulleys to increase lifting capacity by reducing the boom deflection. During transport, two metal ropes are supplied and can be connected between the head and the frame mounting, just like on the real crane.
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The winches have a braking system integrated into the design so pressure is needed on the winding key to release the drum to allow rotation. Three different sized hooks are supplied with the model, each with a pivoting hook tip with hinged clips to secure the load. The paint finish is of a very high standard, with a thin and even covering helping to highlight the surface engraving details found in the castings. |
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This Liebherr LTM1400 mobile crane from YCC can truly be considered “museum class Replica” and is a must have for any Mammoet model fleet.
