MAN TGS with DOLL Log Transporter "Schmallenbach"
Doll Fahrzeugbau AG produce specialised trailers in the logging transport and special haulage sectors and the self steering, long timber trailer utilises hydraulic steering to give good manoeuvrability while driving along steep and winding forest tracks coupled with a truck mounted loading crane offering cost effectiveness. The dolly is carried piggy back on empty runs and is capable of transporting timber upto 22 metres long. All these details have been finely captured in the 1:50th scale, Schmallenbach decorated model presented here by Conrad.
|
|
The loading crane fitted to the chassis allows the truck to self-load the logs, reducing costs by not needing a dedicated loading crane. The crane boom has been fully replicated on the model with stiff hydraulics allowing the crane to be realistically posed as required.
|
|
The lower mounting structure has integrated stabilisers which extend out from the chassis with pull out jacking pads. The crane can be folded to rest above the cab during transport and the operators seat can be folded, just like on the full sized truck. |
There are some good details including large hydraulic fluid tank, access steps on both sides of the chassis and a metal protection frame behind the cab. The design of the rear frame allows the two axle dolly to be carried on the back and contoured wheel rests have been integrated into the chassis frame.
The cab has a replicated interior with self-fit rear view mirrors supplied in the box. The roof sports two amber warning beacons and the cab frame can be tilted forward to reveal the engine block moulding at the heart of the chassis. The front wheels have working steering with a very good amount of movement and all the tyres have a detailed and intricate tread pattern with silver plastic wheel hubs.
|
The dolly has textured diamond plate panels on the upper surface with plastic guards over the rear wheels. The front wheels are linked to a mechanism so that, as they turn, the log holding frame also rotates and this has been nicely captured on the model. The frame has extending plastic supports allowing full loading and a metal safety line and flexible rubber service line are supplied to simulate the correct operation of the full sized truck. |
|
The crane has a full 360 degree rotation with extending stick allowing it to reach the logs and place them on the trailer. The grapple works well but is unable to grip the larger logs supplied with the model.
Fully loaded, the model is an impressive length and the logs supplied are the most realistic load I think I have seen with a model. They have been roughed up to simulate the cuts and abbrasions that would occur as the logs are delimbered with the colour and texture making them look great.
|
Interestingly, when opening the model, most of the logs were separate although there is glue on them, suggesting they should be a single piece. I can see the benefits of gluing the logs together but, from a collectors point of view, there are more posing possibilities when the logs are seperate. |
|
To hold the load in place, a set of chains are supplied but are almost impossible to connect, no matter how the load is positioned. As an alternative, there are two flexible rubber strips which stretch and elongate allowing them to firmly hold the load (Not shown fitted in the pictures).
This is another great model release from Conrad, capturing the realism and functionality of the full sized truck very well. The paint finish is excellent with crisp markings and printwork on the cab and is supplied in a stiff cardboard box with contoured foam interior to keep the model well protected during transport. For more information on the Doll range of products, check out their website.