Link Belt RTC8080 Rough Terrain Mobile Crane

The RTC8080 is a versatile rough terrain 2-axle crane with a lifting capacity of 80 ton. Powered by a 6-cylinder Cummins QSB diesel engine delivering 270hp, the carrier has a three speed powershift transmission with 6 forward and 6 reverse gears allowing a top travel speed of 18.2 mph.

The 1:50th scale replica has accurately captured the looks of the machine with plenty of functionality. Starting with the chassis, both axles have a limited range of steering movement, allowing different steering modes to be visualised with the single stage telescopic H-pattern outriggers extending and holding straight once the jack legs are lowered.

The upper surface of the chassis has painted anti-slip mats with metal safety grab rails on all four corners where access steps are integrated into the bodywork. The rear engine housing has a photo-etch slotted grill with highlighted Link Belt markings while the upper part of the engine has hinged brackets which fold up, allowing the ballast plate to be housed during the self-rigging stage and this works well on the model.

The upper structure consists of the frame which has two working winches, complete with hydraulic motor and hose detailing with a small winding key included to operate the lines. The hooks are already rigged, complete with safe load monitoring systems which connect to the boom head with small chains, another great touch to give more realism to the model.

The two-part folding lattice jib can be connected to the boom tip using bolts and features the ability to adjust the angle to one of three different settings. The main boom is infinitely adjustable with a tiny grub screw fitted to the cylinder, allowing the boom to be locked at any chosen angle.

The slewing motor has been replicated with a photo-etch screen also fitted to the body panel behind the cabin which has inset access steps and a choice of two sets of safety railings, one folded to be used during travel to the job site and one fully raised.

The cabin has a finished interior, complete with joystick controls and steering wheel with clear glazed windows, finished with black printing of the rubber seals and grab rails fitted to the cab frame.