New Holland E215B Tracked Excavator
Presented here is the 1:50th scale New Holland E215B tracked excavator from Motorart. This is one of three versions which have been produced and features a multifunction articulating boom for long reach applications with a general purpose digging bucket.
The hydraulics have a stiff feel allowing the boom, sticks and bucket to be positioned as required and flexible plastic piping has been added to the boom and stick for added realism. This is the most interesting version of the three models produced and the addition of the added sticks really does look different. When comparing the movement of the linkages on the boom, the range of movement is a little limited and this is a little dissapointment as the idea is very good.
The limitations to the movement of the various linkages was pointed out to Motorart months before the model was released and while some changes have been made since then, the movement is still not as good as I would have preferred. The body appears to have been packed with additional weight as the model appears a little heavier than the other versions to help ballance the added weight of the front end.
The opening engine cover is a nice addition on the model, revealing the moulded engine block which has highlighted exhaust piping and printed markings and safety labels.
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One of the nice features on the model are the grill cut-outs on the body panel, constructed by applying a photo-etched panel on top of the base casting, allowing the internal contours to be seen. The cab has a replicated interior with controls visible through the clear windows and the front and roof protection screens are a nice addition on the model but the slots are fairly narrow and look a little oversized.
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Front facing work lights and grab rail with integrated rear view mirror have been added to the cab frame while the rear of the model has safety warning markings printed on the counterweight and the engine cover has a photo-etched mesh section for added realism. The undercarriage has linked track pads with triple grouser and bolt head detailing visible on each link with the track frames having accurate safety label placement and integrated steps giving easier access for the driver. |
Both the drive and idler wheels are fixed so the tracks actually sag a little. This is not a big deal but it is noticable, especially when compared to excavator models that have tensioned track frames. The latest releases from Motorart are a nice addition to the range of New Holland construction replicas and it is good to see Motorart take the step of producing the different variants.
