1:50th Scale Liebherr RL64 Pipe Layer
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr RL64 pipe layer from NZG. With NZG producing the Liebherr PR764 bulldozer, it was no surprise that a model of the RL64 would appear and yet, this is a completely new casting with nothing taken from the PR764. For a start, the track frames feature nine bottom rollers which are fixed to the frame to provide a more rigid footing. The linked metal tracks are finely detailed with single grouser pads and tensioned idlers with keep the tracks taut, allowing them to rotate smoothly.
Previous models of Liebherr pipe layers have had an open ROPs canopy and yet, with the RL64, NZG have modelled a fully enclosed cab which features a roof window for a direct line of sight to the pulley block on the end of the boom. The rear window is covered with a protective mesh screen and windscreen wipers have been added for realism. Accurately scaled grab rails are present all round the cab and even the integrated flood lights on the cab sides have been replicated.
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A nice touch on the model are the individual counterweight sections which slide onto the pins extending from the main counterweight frame. They are held in place with plastic pins which use friction to stay in place and each piece has crisp black line printing.
The counterweight frame uses hydraulics to extend smoothly away from the chassis to extend the balance of the model when a load is hooked up. |
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The rear of the model has a functional rope winch with integrated towing bar. The side rollers actually rotate and the winch is operated by turning the motor on the side of the winch housing. |
The front grill has a textured finish with rear view mirror and front facing work lights all present. Towing hooks are integrated into the front bumper bar and flexible hydraulic lines are fitted to the main winch motor which uses a small winding key to extend the rope.
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The engine housing has printed grills on the side ant top surfaces which look authentic and there are small grab rails on both sides of the engine compartment. |
There is also a small work platform with mesh panel above the track with more flexible hydraulic lines leading to the main boom lift cylinder which is stiff enough to hold the boom at any chosen angle. |
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The model is packaged in a two section polystyrene carton with printed outer cardboard box and comes with an instruction sheet detailing the fitting of the counterweights. This is another great model from NZG and the enclosed cab gives it a refreshingly different appearance to previous pipe layer models.
