Liebherr R914 Compact Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr R914 Compact tracked excavator which has been produced in China by WSI Models. The 15 ton R914 is the smallest machine in the Compact range, ideal for working in confined spaces.
The tracked undercarriage is interesting in that the track pads have a smooth surface with inset dimples for the fixing bolts and these have been painted black to simulate the rubber pads that are an option on the full sized machine. The undercarriage is also fitted with an adjustable blade with all pin heads painted grey.
The superstructure houses a full size cabin with a fully modelled interior with all the controls and internal paneling details highlighted, right down to the small Liebherr name printed on the seat. Externally, the window seals have been printed, as has the door handle with rear view mirrors integrated into the grab rail fixed to the frame. An aerial is fitted to the roof along with a roof window panel.
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All the body panels are crisply engraved, complete with tiny safety markings. The curved rear has inset light clusters which look good with black paint used to highlight the various panel handles.
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The printing over the engine grills is particularly realistic with an intricate pattern highlighting the mesh of the full size machine. |
The two section hydraulically adjustable boom and stick have a good range of movement with fairly stiff hydraulics allowing it to hold in any chosen position. For realism, raised hydraulic piping and flexible hoses have been added including an auxiliary circuit with a quick coupler mounted to the stick.
A wide grading bucket has been included in the box which is an interesting change to the standard digging bucket although it would have been good to also include a general purpose or trenching bucket.
The paint finish and printing is of a very high standard and the R914 Compact is a welcome addition to the Liebherr model fleet.
