Caterpillar 988K Log Loader
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Caterpillar 988K Forestry Machine which has been produced by Tonkin Replicas. It is a logging version of their popular wheel loader with plenty of detail, functionality and value for money.
There is certainly plenty of great detailing to be found, while still maintaining a rugged and sturdy feel when handled, so you don't feel you are going to break it just by picking it up. As with the other models from Tonkin, a small collector card is included, slotted into a pocket on the inside of the packaging.
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All the safety railings added to the model are produced from accurately scaled metal which is great to see, and it is believed that all 1:50th scale Cat models from Tonkin will feature metal railings.
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The articulating chassis frame has a very good range of movement capturing that of the full sized machine, powered by two hydraulic rams. Flexible hoses have been added between the two chassis sections which add to the realism and a drive shaft is modelled on the front axle. |
The detailing of the engine housing is very nicely done, with the rear radiator grille really looking the part, complete with side located rear facing lights which have painted lenses. The upper walkway surfaces are textured with side grilles also very nicely highlighted with black paint, emphasising the ridged detail.
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Small access ladders have been added to both sides of the rear counterweight with an anit-slip textured upper surface. On this version of the model, there is an additional ballast plate fitted to the underside to help ballance the machine when lifting a full load of logs. To finish off, tiny safety labels have been added with the Cat logo prominently displayed on the rear grille. The tyres have a very good and authentic moulded pattern with wheel hubs having a ring of tiny bolt heads. The front axle is fixed to the chassis while the rear axle will oscillate. |
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The cabin frame has been modelled with integrated rear view mirrors and front facing work lights with a roof mounted bar topped with an amber beacon and two small rear facing lights and grab rail fitted to the rear of the roof. The cab interior has been modelled with a grey decorated driver's seat, complete with printed Cat logo on the seat. The front console is also painted grey with a modelled side panel and external windscreen wiper adding to the detail.
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The main lift and tip hydraulic cylinders have a nice smooth action and will hold at any position chosen while the large tines of the grapple are individually actuated with flexible hoses added to the attachment for added realism
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The addition of flexible hydraulic piping really adds to the realism, as do the small bolt heads that have been cast into the ends of the cylinders. All the pin and rivet heads have been painted over which adds to the visual appearance. |
The paint finish is of a very high standard with an even coating allowing the surface casting detail to be seen. The markings are authentically applied with all lights and the mirror surfaces decorated. The log grapple is certainly impressive, and capable of unloading a log truck in a single pass, as shown below unloading a Corgi timber trailer.
