Volvo EC460C L Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Volvo EC460C L tracked excavator from NZG. While Motorart have recently produced all Volvo's construction models, it is interesting to see NZG begin working with Volvo, and what a good job they have done on the EC460C.
The opening engine compartment reveals a packed interior with the prominent Volvo branded engine block and cooling pipes all visible. The upper deck surfaces have been finished with dark grey paintwork with small black printed dots which give it an unusual appearance. The hydraulic distribution block has been replicated at the heart of the chassis with flexible piping placed on the rear of the boom
The rear counterweight casting has been accurately modelled with inset areas for the reflective panels and a non-functional counterweight installation system which is visible both below and above the model. The underside of the body has panel detailing for added realism which is good to see.
The undercarriage has been constructed with rotating lower rollers with the track frames having access steps with ridged grips cast into them. The drive sprocket has good tooth detailing with the fixing bolt detailing visible on the hub whilst the idler wheels are tensioned to keep the linked metal tracks taut. The triple grouser pads look good and use the familiar linking system whereby they clip into each other and use the tension to stay connected.
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The digging bucket fitted to the stick has some good casting detail including accurately shaped teeth with wear plate detailing between each tooth and side cutting plates. The range of movement of the bucket linkage is very realistic allowing the full movement of the full sized machine to be replicated which is good to see. Flexible hydraulic piping has been added to the boom and stick with crisply printed safety labels found at the top of the stick and the Volvo name on the boom. |
Accurately scaled safety rails have been added to the model along with rear view mirrors and a counterweight mounted safety mirror. The cab exterior has integrated roof lights and roof window with a photo-etched windscreen wiper and amber beacon whilst the slightly tinted windows have printed rubber seal detailing for a more realistic look.
You can just about make out the replicated cab interior through the tinted windows, with contoured seat and side console with joystick controls and systems display screen.
The wait for a good, 40-50 ton Volvo tracked excavator is over and NZG have done a great job of capturing the realism and details of the EC460C. The paint finish is very high, as expected from NZG and the packaging is a little of a surprise.
