Caterpillar 627K Twin Engine Scraper

One of the last Cat models to be produced by Tonkin Replicas is the 1:50th scale 627K scraper which is possibly one of the most detailed Cat releases from the company to date.

Everywhere you look on the model, you are greeted with fine detailing and the functionality of the model is also very impressive, particularly the cushion hitch which has been replicated to operate and considering the complexity of the mechanism, this is a great addition. Steering is also working and achieves a very realistic range of movement with hydraulic hoses fitted throughout the model to really add to the realism.

The front of the chassis has a pivoting strike block with a hinged arrestor bar allowing two models to be linked together in the typical push-pull configuration.

Both sides of the front chassis have access ladders with a mixture of metal and plastic grab rails and access ladders found throughout the model, all accurately scaled. The cabin interior has a corner console with steering wheel and hand controls visible alongside a grey finished seat with clear glazing allowing full view of the interior.

The bowl construction is interesting, with a sliding ejector plate which can be authentically positioned, powered by a single hydraulic cylinder mounted below the rear engine. The height adjustment of the bowl is very stiff and the front apron can be raised and will hold the chosen position. All the hydraulic lines have been replicated and this really enhances the appearance of the model although on the review samples, the main tubular cross-member has some rotation movement which should not be present.

The rear chassis consists of the second engine housing with open sides allowing the outlines of the engine block to be seen with a large fuel tank and spill guard connected to the rear of the bowl.

The rear chassis has a built in re-enforced strike area for dozer assisted loading with additional framework incorporating a hook for push-pull operation. Tonkin has to be congratulated for producing a very realistic and detailed model of the 627K with a high quality paint finish and tampo printed Cat markings. As with the other releases, the model is supplied with a small collector card providing details of the machine.