Ruston Bucyrus 22-RB Shovel
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Ruston Bucyrus 22-RB shovel from EMD. There have been other Ruston Bucyrus models produced in the past from other manufacturers and none of them are close to the detail and functionality of the model reviewed here.
The operator's cab has been fully replicated with all the drivers controls clearly visible through the glazed windows and opening cab door. The sliding motion of the door is excellent with a smooth motion and while there is no handle to get hold of, gently tilting the model allows the door to slide open.
The rear of the model has another opening door to reveal the engine block within. Grab rails are added to the body on each side and the walkways allow the operator access all round the machine. The body casting has vent panels, compartment handles and rivet head detailing all visible with the counterweight having the Ruston Bucyrus name printed on the name plate.
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The side opening doors reveal the two rope winches and the supplied key can be used to operate both winches. There is also a winch built into the base of the boom which operates the extension of the dipper.
The undercarriage has some fantastic fabricated tracks which look so realistic. Added to this are small drive chains fitted to the inside of the track frames which drive the sprockets. This is a great touch which greatly adds to the realism of the model and shows the level of engineering that has gone into producing the model.
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The shovel has an opening trip door which is sprung loaded with a small linkage connected to the trip rope. |
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All the motions of the boom and dipper are fully functional, with very smooth operation by turning the various winches to operate the hoist, crowd and boom functions. An example of the thought that has gone into the model is evident with the supplied winding key which has the Ruston Bucyrus name cast into it. The boom has another name plate with printed logo along with grab handles and rope tie off point.
The tracks are amazing with a very thin track pad giving the model a more realistic look. The slewing ring has roller detailing and slews smoothly while the side walkways require fitting to the model and are made of plastic.
The model is securely packed in a two piece polystyrene carton with outer printed box. The box printing is different for the Ruston-Bucyrus and Bucyrus-Erie versions and there is a small booklet in the box which gives some details of the full sized machine. Only 2000 pieces of the Bucyrus-Erie have been produced along with 500 pieces of the Ruston-Bucyrus version.
The paint finish is in the authentic green, red and cream of the full sized machine and all the markings are accurately placed. This really is a stunning model of a very famous machine and there are more models from the Bucyrus product line currently in development. For more details and to order, visit www.bucyruseriemodels.com
