Page 36 - TPM Issue3

Manufacturer: CCM Scale: 1:48th Price: $224.95
Dimensions: L=175mm, W=60mm, H=74mm Weight: 445-455g

Caterpillar 973

Track Loader

The 973 track loader is another impressive 1:48th scale release from CCM which is
available in three different configurations. The standard version with ripper has been
produced in a limited edition run of 750 pieces while the other two configurations
are limited to 525 pieces each. All three are supplied with a signed and serialised
specification brochure.

T he chassis and track frames slotted panel used for the main cabin has opening doors and built-in
of the model are nicely
air-conditioning unit with integrated
cooling grill. The fully enclosed cabin
has clear windows with printed
work lights. The rear engine housing
engineered, with free-rolling,
individually
linked
tracks
which have tensioned idler wheels surrounds and a number of metal grab is shrouded with a protective frame
and different style of rear grill with
rails with both doors opening to
giving just the right amount of tension. reveal more of the finished interior raised work lights. Another difference
The general- purpose toothed bucket where the operator’s seat, control on the model is the addition of
has a decent range of tip movement levers, foot pedals and instrumentation protection for the track tensioning sys-
while the loader arms rise to a display can be seen. tem which is covered over. You cannot
reasonable height, with all the The second configuration sees the miss the Peterson demolition bucket
hydraulics smooth in operation. The track loader kitted out for demolition which has a hinged upper grapple
rear of the model is fitted with a duties with the addition of a fine mesh which can be used to clamp large
3-shank ripper unit which can be screen covering the front windscreen. items while also functioning as a
adjusted in height with a photo-etch The fully enclosed, sound-suppressed dozer blade. Protection for the tip

Below:
The standard configuration
with enclosed cabin, toothed
bucket and ripper.

36 TPMMW Magazine - Spring 2020