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The outer sleeve.
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Excellent book. |
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The No 70
scraper. |
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The 621K
scraper. |
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This model set traces the history of Caterpillar
Scrapers. It includes models of the D7 Track-Type
Tractor with the No 70 scraper, and the 621K Scraper.
Packaging
The review set had no missing parts or defects.
A mini catalogue of the Diecast Masters range is
included, and an instruction sheet for adding the
operator and umbrella to the Cat D7.
The set includes a comprehensive 76 page ring-bound book.
It starts with a written history of scrapers,
and there is a large photograph section. There
is also a comparison of machine specifications and it is
pleasing that the book references other makers of
scrapers, not just Caterpillar. It
is an excellent reference work to accompany the models.
Detail
The models are fixed to a base plate which has nice
quality badges embedded. The models are fixed by screws
with stands, which are black and are visible to varying
degrees.
The
D7 has nice metal tracks and the old fashioned spoked
drive sprocket looks great. At the rear there is a
towing hitch and a large plastic winch arrangement.
The ropes running from it to the scraper are modelled as
soft plastic and it does not look so good.
The operator's area has replica levers and the operator
which is in period clothing. A plastic umbrella
provides protection.
The engine block has a plastic engine which is detailed,
and the exhaust pipe has a hole at the top. At the
front the radiator grille looks convincing and it has
the Caterpillar name on top as well as couple of work
lights.
The No 70 scraper has not be modelled before so there
are some compromises presumably because of the lower
volume production run.
The wheels are good with nice tyres and the gooseneck is
modelled well although the plastic riopes do not sit
realistically. Inside the bowl the apron is a
plastic part and unfortunately it does not have a good
colour match with the metal parts. The Caterpillar
graphics are very good.
The 621K's tyres
are good and they are mounted on plastic wheels.
The tractor is detailed well, with some fine casting of
textured areas. The black grille at the front looks
good and it has a Caterpillar logo. The handrails are
metal with various access ladders being plastic.
The metal cab has good detail inside with nice controls
including an offset steering wheel, and there is a Cat
logo on the seat back. Small aerials and a horn are on
the roof, together with a painted beacon light which
does not look as good as a clear plastic version would.
There is a windscreen wiper on the front windscreen.
The connection to the bowl is very detailed with plenty
of soft hoses, which all looks convincing. The
elevating mechanism for the bowl is also detailed with
hydraulic hoses. The bowl is metal with some nice
graphics.
At the rear the anti-spill guard is modelled in metal,
as is the robust pusher point at the back. The
handrails and laser sensor are soft plastic.
Features
The models should be removable from the baseplate by
undoing screws, but on the review set some screws were
completely seized in position. The models are
fitted tight to the base so some wheels and tracks do
not rotate freely. On both models the steering
appears functional although it can be moved whilst fixed.
The D7 can be posed with or without an operator.
The No 70 scraper's apron can be raised and lowered
easily, and the ejector can be moved but it is not
smooth in operation.
On the 621K the
apron raises and lowers and poses in any position.
The ejector can be moved forwards and backwards although
it is a clunky mechanism.
Quality
The models are very good quality with nice paint and
graphics, although there are some off-colour plastic
parts.
The presentation of the set is excellent.
Price
The set is reasonable value for two models and a reference
book.
Overall
This set continues the Evolution Series and it provides
a comprehensive history of this kind of machine.
In particular the book is a very interesting read for
anyone interested in these machines.
Footnotes
The set first appeared in early 2022.
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Brochure reprints
in the lid. |
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The D7. |
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The 621K..
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Nice base plate
presentation. |
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