Volvo BL71B Backhoe Loader
Presented here is the 1:50th scale BL71B backhoe loader which has been produced by Motorart. This is an update to the original BL71 and shows a number of nice additions including an opening engine compartment and guards over the front wheels.
For an update, there are certainly more refinements over the original release and the overall impression is that of a fine quality model. The rear backhoe still has a simulated extending stick design and the range of movement of the bucket linkage is a little out but overall, it captures the range of movement fairly well.
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The rear of the model features a sliding frame where the kingpost is connected. As with the original, a boom lock mechanism has been replicated to ensure the boom remains raised during road transfer. The stabilisers are a little more refined with yellow painted pads
The front loader has a four-in-one toothed clamshell bucket which can be opened with the addition of flip over pallet forks which work well. Unfortunately, the forks are plastic and are easily bent.
A red painted safety bar is connected to the loader arm to ensure the arms remain in a raised position during servicing. |
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One nice addition on the B series backhoe is the opening engine cover which reveals a modelled and decorated interior with cream coloured front radiator housing and dark green engine block. The hinge on the sample is very loose, so will not remain in the open position unaided. |
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The front grill has the Volvo logo printed across it with plastic guards fitted above the front wheels which unfortunately do not have working steering. |
The cabin has been modelled very well, with a multitude of interior detailing visible through the clear glazed windows. To the rear, the low mounted screen wiper and upper rear facing work lights look good while inside, the main joystick levers for the backhoe equipment are visible with contoured inner body panels and side console added.
The seat has integrated armrests and is mounted facing forward with a central console and steering wheel visible. The outer frame of the cabin is finished with simulated door hinges and full length grab rails which have integrated forward facing light housings with painted lenses. Further lights are mounted into the roof with two amber beacons located on the roof which accurately captures the contours of the full sized machine. Easy access to the cabin is achieved with a pair of slotted steps on each side of the chassis although these are very fragile.
The paint finish is of a high standard throughout with the rivet heads painted over to hide them while the printing of the Volvo logos and markings are crisply applied. The BL71B is certainly a worthy update to the original model which received much praise on its release for capturing the aesthetics and functionality of the Volvo backhoe in model form.
