Nooteboom MEGA Windmill Transporter

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Nooteboom MEGA Windmill Transporter with MAN TGX XXL 8x4 tractor from WSI Models. When it comes to the transportation of windmill tower sections and nacelles, the MEGA Windmill transporter is king.

One of the main features of the MWT is the ability to load/unload without the need for a supporting crane, reducing costs significantly while maintaining transport flexibility. The trailer consists of a front 3 or 4 axle jeep dolly with a choice of 7-axle NLD hydraulically steered self-tracking dolly or Nooteboom Scheuerle modular trailer at the rear, fitted with hydraulically extendable lift-adapters between which the load is clamped.

In 1:50th scale, both main types of MEGA windmill trailer have been produced, in the standard Nooteboom red and a host of company liveries with options of Nacelles and tower sections as authentic loads. The version reviewed here consists of a two and four axle Scheuerle module with four axle jeep dolly and MAN TGX XXL 8x4 prime mover. No load is supplied with the model however the Nooteboom web shop offers both tower sections and Vestas V90 nacelles separately.

The Scheuerle modules feature individual axle lines with a linked steering system connected with different steering bars to alter the steering ratios of each axle. These are configured out of the box and protective metal covers fit into the recess on the upper surface of the modules.

A generator pack, control console, rear clip-on light panels and non-functional rear towing bar are included and fit onto the modules. A hydraulically steering adapter is pinned into position once the modules are connected together, to which the main lift adaptor is connected.

When travelling without a load, the lift adaptors can be linked together with large hydraulic rams used to demonstrate the self-loading ability of the trailer. The lift adaptor frames can be telescopically extended with locking pins inserted at the desired extension. Flexible hydraulic lines are fitted for added realism with access steps and work platforms fitted to the adaptor gantry. Both lift adaptors are fitted with a frame housing the generator, hydraulic pump housing and hydraulic fluid tank.

The rear-most pair of axles on the jeep dolly have a small degree of steering movement and the dolly houses a turntable which the lift adaptor connects with. Metal support poles are provided with the model for when the tractor unit is not connected and these slide into the holes at the front of the dolly.

The MAN TGX XXL 41.680 tractor is an ideal choice for the set with high levels of detail on the underside of the chassis including suspension, drive-shafts and differentials with two different sets of treaded tyres for the driven and steering wheels.

The front bumper has an integrated towing hitch complete with protective plastic cover and the cabin tilts to reveal the detailed engine bay. As expected from WSI Models, the level of detail and realism is excellent throughout with many small details highlighting the attention to detail WSI has put into producing the replica with an excellent paint finish and authentically applied graphics.

The rear tower frame consists of several tanks and cooling system with mesh covered fan detailing and side mounted air bottles while the cabin features a replicated and decorated interior, colour matched rear view mirrors, amber beacons and windscreen wipers.

A 1:50th scale model of the MEGA Windmill Transporter has also been produced with a 7-axle NLD hydraulically steered self-tracking rear dolly, highlighting both trailer options for transporting nacelles and tower sections.