Caterpillar 568LL Log Loader
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Cat 568LL log loader from Tonkin Replicas. The Caterpillar 568 LL log loader weighs in around the 47 ton mark and is powered by a Tier 4i Cat C9.3 ACERT 6-cylinder diesel engine delivering 296hp.
In the log loader configuration, the boom and stick are fitted with a hydraulic heel and grapple, with the underside mounted stick cylinder surrounded with a protective guard and this has been authentically captured on the 1:50th scale model from Tonkin Replicas.
The tracked undercarriage is constructed of individually linked track pads with dual grouser shoes and surface bolt detailing with the upper-carriage mounted higher than normal for additional clearance. The track frames have engraved lower roller detailing with bolt heads visible on the final drive housings and the tracks rotate rather well with tensioned idler wheels keeping the tracks taut.
The cabin is mounted to a riser and the entire unit is hinged at the front and folds forward to reduce the height of the machine during transport. As with the general forestry version of the 568, metal grab rails are fitted throughout and the cabin has been modelled well, including the interior moulding. Externally, the cab is fitted with front windscreen wipers and roof mounted work lights with silver lenses.
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The grapple has a good stiff operation, allowing it to hold logs with 360 degree rotation while the heel has a ridged lower edge and a full range of movement. The paint finish is of a high standard with authentic placement of the Cat markings and machine designation. This is another fine release from Tonkin Replicas with additional forestry equipment replicas in development. Pictured below is the latest MAN TGS log truck from Conrad being unloaded by the 568LL. |
