Caterpillar 637K Scraper

Presented here is the 1:48th scale Cat 637K push-pull scraper which is the third release from CCM in the Cat 630 Series range. As with the 631K and 637K Coal versions, the level of fine detailing is something to behold.

Differences between the 637K and the 631K include the rear structural frame components which allow for several scrapers to connect together to use their combined power to load the bowls and this is achieved with a pivoting protective frame that incorporates a towing hook, below which is the push block.

At the front of the tractor, a hydraulically adjustable arrestor bar is fitted with a strike plate below it, to which the rear tractor makes contact with the front tractor before lowering the arrestor frame to complete the connection and this works well, as shown above.

The front engine compartment has an opening upper cover that reveals the interior, consisting of the painted and printed engine block silver radiator fan housing and other components to give a real feeling of realism. The front of the model features a photo-etch grill with a rippled shape and tiny perforations allowing glimpses of the area behind the grill. On each side are inset lights with printed silver and orange lenses. Access steps are integrated into the side of the chassis with metal grab handles and safety railings all added.

The rear of the tractor unit has more detailing including the hydraulic fluid tank and all the connections for the hydraulic hoses, each terminating with a silver valve or connector. Even here, tiny warning labels have been printed on the mud guards. The tyres have a wide footprint with an accurately moulded tread pattern and a number of raised bolt heads on the driven wheel hubs.

The secondary Cat C9.3 ACERT engine on the 637K has open sides allowing the internal engine components to be seen with access steps and side mounted ladders giving full access for servicing tasks. Attention to detail is superb and they have even added the bleed hose from the engine bay which drains down the rear of the ejector plate.

The cabin has an opening door that reveals the fully finished interior, consisting of a medium grey finish on the side panels and floor which also has a ridged anti-slip texture with black seat, steering wheel, side console complete with a printed display panel and several levers. Access steps are integrated into the bodywork along with filler caps and very small printing of the warning and safety labels. The cab exterior has screen wiper, aerial, air horn and an amber beacon with two small fan housings visible in the top of the air conditioning unit mounted just below the roof line behind the cabin.

The gooseneck incorporates a working cushion hitch assembly with all the fixed and flexible hydraulic lines finished to perfection, complete with silver painted connectors and valves. The neck achieves almost 90 degree of steering to the left or right. The bowl has a working ejector plate and rising apron with a sloping rear chassis incorporating a push block and metal safety railings alongside textured walk panels for servicing needs. A spill guard with photo-etch mesh panels is fitted to the rear of the bowl and with the ejector fully deployed, the hydraulic cylinder and piston is visible.