Sennebogen 5500 Lattice Crawler Crane
The Sennebogen 5500 Starlifter was one of the first models from Conrad to offer the collector total control on how it is erected. The multitude of parts are securely presented in a polystyrene tray and the model is a dream to assemble in any configuration the collector requires.
The latest version only has one casting difference over the original with the redesign of the pennant lines to allow them to be pinned together rather than the slotted bar connection of the original. The level of detail is still impressive, considering some of the newer models with enhanced levels of detail and realism and this does not look out of place when compared to the latest releases.
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There are three main mast sections and three slightly smaller jib sections all produced from metal that give a fairly heavy feel to the finished replica and connecting the parts is achieved with small plastic bolts which use friction fit, both for the mast sections and the pennant lines. The main boom head is a metal component with plastic pulleys and allows the jib components to fit easily |
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The winches have a resistance and the only painful job during the assembly is reeving the ropes on the A-frame and jib although to be fair, this is straightforward, just time consuming with newer releases coming pre-reeved out of the box.
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The main undercarriage has fold out supports with jacks that lower to allow self assembly on site and this is operational on the replica, with the track frames clicking into place on the undercarriage frame. |
The rear ballast plate locks into place with five additional ballast plates for each side to increase the weight to prevent the model from toppling over. |
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While the original release was finished in a grey and yellow decoration, I have to admit the updated Green Line colours really do make the model stand out and once again, Conrad has given the parts a high quality finish with authentic printing of the Sennebogen markings.
