P&H 4100XPC Rope Shovel
Presented here is the 1:87th scale P&H 4100XPC Rope Shovel which follows the 4100XPB model which TWH Collectibles manufactured for Sword Precision Scale Models. While the Bucyrus shovel has been produced in 1:50th, it is interesting that the P&H models have been produced in 1:87th scale but they are as nicely detailed as the larger scale Bucyrus models.
The undercarriage has highly detailed track pads with a smooth contact surface and tensioned idlers allowing the tracks to settle into a realistic curve due to the slightly elevated drive sprocket.
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The track frames have surface detailing cast into them with the main electrical supply system mounted between the tracks, complete with cable drum connection and simulated yellow electrical cable. Even the drum driveshaft and electrical motor is finely detailed which is fantastic on a model of this scale. |
The most noticable difference of the XPC over the XPB is the new shape cab and this has captured all the details of the full sized machine to perfection. The cab door opens to reveal a glimpse at the interior where the main driver seat and controls are replicated. There is also a work bench further inside the cab area with a second seat whilst the small cubicle to the rear of the cab also has an opening door.
The large front and side windows also allow the driver's controls and side mounted console to be seen and the cab frame has integrated rear view mirrors and safety railings along the side walkway. Another interesting feature is the ladders fitted to the side of the cab giving access to the roof which also has safety railings all the way around along with photo etched floor panels.
The A-frame at the rear of the upper deck has accurately scaled ladders leading up to the platforms on each side where the main boom ropes are anchored. These have large red pins riveted in place onto the oscilating support bars and all the ropes used on the model are a perfect length so that there is equal tension in each one.
The side of the model features walkways and ladders between the lower and upper decks and each if these has safety railings and textured floor panel detailing. To add a little extra detailing, fire extinguishers and work lights have also been added.
The orientation of the ladders to the upper deck are different between the XPB and XPC versions and silver painted grill covers add to the detail on the XPC. The doors to the main house have glazed windows with the exception of the one below the cab which is where the key is insterted to operate the main rope winch. Even the door handles have been highlighted with silver paint which is another nice touch.
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The main access to the machine is via the fold down ladder on the side of the body housing which can actually be lowered using a small hydraulic cylinder. The opposite side of the model has a non-functional slide down style safety ladder. |
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Another noticable difference from the XPB is the large air filtration housing mounted to the rear of the upper deck along with the curved canopy. This structure has a lattice support with cast detailing on the front panels.
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The shovel is highly detailed throughout with accurately modelled teeth and side wear plating along with a ribbed underside and opening trip door. The trip door winch is mounted to the side of the boom and is operated by turning it by hand. |
The dipper can be operated by inserting a winding key (2 supplied in the box) into the hole just below the platform on the side of the boom. This operates the toothed drive allowing the dipper to traverse in and out. |
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The bucket on the 4100XPC is a different casting to the XPB with a curved bottom surface and different wear plate placement with smaller profile teeth.
Looking down on the deck, there are a number of photo etched panels with textured grill finish along with three glass covered openings, complete with safety railings which give light into the main housing. The main boom has ladders fitted all the way to the tip with a platform located between the dipper arms.
This is a very detailed model and in 1:87th scale, the size is not over powering. It complements the original 4100XPB very well and is securely packaged in a two section polystyrene carton with stiff cardboard outer box with printed graphics. Also supplied is a spec sheet and information sheet on the features of the machine which makes for interesting reading.
