Caterpillar 450E Backhoe Loader

Presented here is the 1:87th scale Caterpillar 450E backhoe loader from Norscot. Despite the small size, Norscot have achieved a fair bit of functionality on the model with a raising front bucket which can be tipped with a simulated hydraulic cylinder. The tyres have a very nicely moulded tread pattern and rotate freely with plastic wheel hubs showing fine bolt head detailing.

The rear centremount king post has folding stabiliser arms which have pivoting pads which work well and are stiff enough to hold the wheels in the air. One main drawback on the model are the rivets which have fairly large heads and because they are unpainted, they certainly stand out. This is a shame as the original prototype image shows all the rivet heads painted.

The rear backhoe boom has a fairly realistic range of movement with functional hydraulics which are smooth in operation. The trenching bucket has tooth detailing and the paint finish throughout the model is of a high standard with crisply applied Caterpillar markings. Other added details include the simulated non-functional pallet forks integrated into the front bucket which is a nice touch.

The cabin interior has been faithfully replicated with a light grey colour constrasing well. The driver's seat if facing forward with a central console with steering wheel and side located control console all visible through the clear grazed windows.