MAN TGS 4x4 Truck with Crane

Presented here is the Technisches Hilfswerk version of the MAN TGS 4x4 truck with tipping body and crane in 1:50th scale from Conrad.

The tipping body features fold down sides which is a nice touch on the model with a black painted chassis frame and fuel tank. A protective bar is integrated into the rear end of the chassis with light panels, complete with painted lenses also added.

The chromed exhaust silencer box has the MAN logo embossed on the front with accurately shaped plastic guards fitted above the rear wheels which have fixing detail cast into them with good detailing of the rear suspension system visible from the underside of the model. The drivetrain is complete, from the gearbox through to the distribution box, where driveshafts travel to the front and rear axles.

The tilting cab provides access to the MAN powerplant moulding at the heart of the chassis. The front axle features functional steering with a good degree of turn, complete with authentically treaded rubber tyres and highly detailed silver wheel hubs. The cab casting has several holes where the supplied parts need to be fitted, these include a radio aerial which is made of a flexible plastic material and the rear view mirrors. The prominent front grill has a chromed top edge and MAN logo with small blue tinted lights integrated into the front bumper with two blue beacons mounted to the roof.

The fully functioning crane is a great addition to the model, with a three stage telescoping boom and precision engineered linkages allowing it to fold within the width of the chassis. The hydraulics are stiff, allowing any pose to be presented and the plastic hook allows a suitable load to be lifted. The outriggers can be extended with screw down pads providing added stability for lifting poses and the tipping body has a good amount of movement with pivoting tailgate. The model is packaged in the familiar foam lined inner cardboard wrap with Conrad branded outer printed box.