MAN TGA XXL 8x4 tractor

Presented here is the 1:50th scale MAN TGA 8x4 tractor with ballast box and palfinger crane in Schaumann livery from Conrad. The model is a very welcomed addition to the heavy haulage range that have been produced and the addition of the palfinger crane certainly adds to the model's appeal.

The entire cab frame can be tilted forward to reveal the metal engine block at the heart of the chassis. Behind the cab is a red painted frame with integrated tanks, air filters and cooling module, complete with top mounted fan blade detailing. The twin exhaust stacks rise prominently on each side of the model and a silver diamond plate foot panel is located above the chassis frame. The cab's interior has be reproduced with a full length light bar fixed to the roof and rear view mirrors supplied for added realism

The ballast box has been cleverly designed and can be removed to reveal the fully functional fifth wheel beneath which is a nice touch. The grey plastic cover can be removed to reveal the inner box where a number of accessories and parts can be stored if required. This is especially usefull for those collectors who also have the Schaumann girder trailer or Tube transporter models in their collection as the spare bits and pieces can be hidded inside the ballast box.

The addition of a pintle hitch on the rear frame allows the model to be displayed towing the goldhofer modules from the girder trailer and the front mounted towing frame integrated into the bumper also allows the model to be displayed as a pusher at the rear of a haulage setup.

The palfinger crane is fully functional featuring a 4 stage telescopic main boom with full articulation of the base and second member booms along with 360 degree rotation.

The whole thing folds realistically for transport and has a good reach when fully extended. Two slide out outriggers are integrated into the crane's base which smoothly extend while the plastic pads are fitted to metal threaded pins which allow them to be lowered for added stability.

The realistic road treaded tyres are fitted to highly detailed plastic wheels with dark grey plastic guards mounted above the rear wheels. Both the front and second axle have a linked steering system but the amount of steer movement is limited. The paint finish is excellent with printed Schaumann logos on the cab sides and ballast box.