Hitachi ZX250LC-6 Tracked Excavator

While the latest Dash 6 version of the ZX250LC tracked excavator replica is an update to the previous release, it has been started from the ground up with all-new tooling which is an interesting choice from TMC. Being all-new, there are a host of small differences between the two models, the most noticeable are the changes to the engine compartment which has a new design to cater for the emission regulation technology.

Another instantly noticeable difference is the fitting of a wide grading bucket rather than a toothed digging bucket and this alone gives the model an interesting appearance. Because the model has been started from new 3D cad data, the way things have been implemented on the model differs from its predecessor, with most aspects an improvement although everyone may not agree.

TMC Scalemodels go the extra mile when it comes to adding detail, and the ZX250LC-6 is no exception with a fully furnished cabin interior and 180 degree opening door. Some collectors may say that the design of the hinges for the door can detract a little from the overall look when the door is closed, however, in order to achieve the opening door, there will always be compromises and for me, having the door open fully increases the realism of the model.

Interior detailing includes a two-tone grey decoration with all hand and foot controls replicated, not forgetting the Hitachi name printed on the seat back.

Grab rails, mirrors, screen wiper and sun visor have all been added to the exterior of the cabin.

The main body has a mixture of surface engraved grills and a photo-etch plate with printing used to highlight the anti-slip mats on the upper deck area.

The new style engine compartment has a pair of covers which can be raised independently, revealing the internal engine bay which has a replicated engine block, exhaust silencer and piping from the radiator.

All the safety railings are accurately scaled and incorporate safety mirrors with printing used to highlight the panel catch locks

The tracked undercarriage has plenty of surface detailing on the track frames with the lower rollers integrated into the tooling. The drive wheels and final drive casings are nicely finished and the idlers are sprung to keep a good tension on the individually linked track chain. Markings are used to replicate the warning labels which is good to see and the track pads are of a triple grouser design, complete with raised bolt heads on each pad.

The monoboom and stick once again fully capture the range of movement of the full-sized machine with all hydraulic cylinders piped up with hydraulic lines, including armoured hoses, fixed pipework produced from orange coloured plastic and flexible black hoses. Auxiliary lines have been added and I think the wide grading bucket works well as an alternative to a toothed bucket.