Vermeer D33x44 Navigator

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Vermeer D33x44 Navigator from FF Ertl. The D33x44 is a horizontal directional drill which is used for underground construction, utility installation and cable laying and the model presented here has a number of nice features including the operators platform which can be rotated by 90 degrees allowing a good view of the work area.

The side of the machine houses the drill rod holder which has a moulded plastic block representing the rods. The rubber tracked undercarriage is connected to the upper frame with hydraulics which allow the front of the machine to be lowered ready for drilling.

Running up the centre of the frame is the drill mast which houses the drilling motor trolley. The trolley has cast hydraulic drill drive along with two motors that push the trolley along the mast, pushing the drill tip into the ground and these have been replicated on the model. The use of a flexible rubber band to simulate the hydraulic cable holder is a nice touch and the trolley traverses the full length of the mast.

The front of the model features two auger anchors which are driven into the ground to secure the machine during drilling. The augers can be raised which is a nice touch considering the size of the model and the drill rod has a modelled drill cutter head. This is a good model considering it's size and is something a little different to the usual construction machines.