Caterpillar 994K Wheel Loader "Rock Configuration"

Diecast Masters have released the latest K series variant of the 994 as a 1:50th scale model which is substantially bigger in terms of footprint and dimensions over the previous versions from Norscot and Tonkin Replicas. The first noticeable change on the latest incarnation is the engine housing which is certainly larger with two large exhaust stacks rising up from the engine compartment. The huge rear radiator grille has a finely textured surface with grab handles and service steps modelled on each side of the housing.

The chassis has hydraulically powered steering of the articulating frame which does achieve a fair range of movement and the tyres have a deep treaded pattern with smooth walls. The rear axle has some oscillation while the front axle is solid with plenty of surface detailing of the axle casing which is visible when the arms are raised.

The cabin has a modelled interior which is partly hidden with the 1:50th scale operator, giving an idea of the huge size of the machine. External detailing of the cabin includes rear view mirrors and front facing work lights with painted lenses.

Stairways are fitted to both sides of the fully enclosed engine housing with a third emergency ladder also fully replicated. As with previous versions, the safety railings are produced of accurately scaled metal with the exception of the hand rails on the lowering stairway which are plastic and slightly over scaled in order that they can fold up as the ladder raises and lowers

The range of movement of the arms is very authentic to the full sized machine, allowing it to load suitably sized mining trucks which are also available, like the Cat MT4400 or 793F. Flexible hydraulic hoses have been added for the bucket tip cylinders and the movement of the pistons is smooth with a fair bit of resistance which is good, allowing the angle of the bucket and the height of the loader arms to be set without them slowly moving on their own.

The bucket deserves a mention as it has been modelled on a heavy duty rock bucket and as such, the underside surface is populated with mechanically attached wear plates with ski-plates, side bar protectors, a spade nose cutting edge with GET adapters, segments and teeth all authentically modelled with an anti-glare black outer finish.

Not only is the model impressive, but the full metal case that the model is packed in is equally impressive with printed technical details of the real machine alongside images of the model on the outer surfaces and a stiff foam packing on the inside keeping the model secure. A white finished version of the 994K is also available and comes with a larger coal handling bucket.