Clark Michigan 475B Wheel Loader

Presented here is the long awaited Clark Michigan 475B wheel loader from Bymo. The model has been in development for a long time and has finally been released which should delight collectors who have been eagerly awaiting a replica of this rugged piece of iron. The model has authentically captured the rather basic design of the day with a good mixture of metal and plastic giving the model a fairly heavy feel.

The cabin area is very nicely modelled with a large ROPs frame with rear support bars and slotted upper panel authentically capturing the looks of the full sized machine. The walk areas behind and to the sides of the cabin have printed anti-slip mats with accurately scaled plastic safety railings.

The interior of the cabin has been replicated with the moulded driver's seat, steering wheel and hand control levers visible through the clearly glazed windows which have black highlighting of the window seals. Two work lights are fitted above the doors but could have done with painted lenses.

The rear body of the model is very angular with a textured radiator grille embossed with the Clark name while above the grille, the Michigan lettering is raised although not highlighted. Two exhaust stacks are fitted to the upper engine area with service platforms on both sides, complete with safety railings and self-fit access steps.

The range of movement of the loader arms is very good, with stiff hydraulics allowing the bucket to remain in the chosen position. The bucket tipping angle is also very authentic allowing the model to be posed loading a haul truck. All the pins and rivets have painted heads which allows them to blend in, increasing the visual appeal of the model.

The rubber tyres have a basic slotted tread pattern moulded into the surfaces with plastic wheel hubs intricately detailed with all the fixing bolt heads while access ladders are fitted to the fuel tanks which have a raised filler cap. The articulated steering achieves a good range of movement with hydraulic cylinders, a drive-shaft and flexible hose detailing added for realism.

The paint finish is of a reasonably high standard although some areas are a little underpainted which effects the yellow colour slightly, giving it a greenish tinge which is most noticable on the inside of the bucket. The printing is first class with crisply defined machine designation, anti-slip mats and Clark embossed name on the engine sides and rear grille. This is a rather good release from Bymo and it will be interesting to see what other historic models come in the future.