 | The box. |  | Debris guard on the cab. |  |  | It is quite stable posed like this. |
| The Liebherr R 954 BV is a demolition machine with an extended boom fitted with hydraulic shears for tearing down structures at height.
Packaging
The model is provided in a very attractive picture box. The style is a little different from normal Liebherr models in that the top flap lifts up to reveal the model and its accessories packed within a foam insert. This is a higher class package than normal, and the model arrived undamaged. No instructions are provided.
Detail
The undercarriage is simple but looks quite good with the only moving parts being the main sprockets and the plastic tracks. The main body is largely metal with a plastic top cover. Recesses for door handles and grooves for grilles are within the casting. The cab appears to be a casting from that used on other models such as 2732 Liebherr HS843HD Crawler Crane. This model is fitted with a plastic debris guard and internal cab details are simple.
The main demolition boom is cast in three pieces and has hydraulic hosing details within the casting. Plastic hoses join the main moving parts and look effective. The shears are permanently fixed to the boom and appear a little large in proportion to the boom. There is a connecting pin which can fix the two main demolition booms together during transport and this is a good feature.
The separate excavator arm has a fitted bucket and looks good.
Features
The model can be posed in any position because of the working cylinders although, as with the real machine, it becomes a little unstable at extended reach. The shears rotate and open and close also.
The real plus point to this model is the provision of an excavator boom and bucket also. This can be interchanged with the demolition boom by using two pins. The model is also supplied with two die cast stands which can support the spare boom when not in use - an excellent feature.
Quality
The quality of the casting is good and the graphics are clear and precise. The model looks good and is particularly good on an appropriate low loader. Although the plastic tracks cannot match metal for looks and quality, these are satisfactory and work smoothly. The interchangeable booms fit well.
Price
The model is good value bearing in mind the accessories and presentation quality of the package.
Overall
In a market of relatively few such models, this is the best available at the time of the review.
Footnotes
The model was introduced in 2001. In 2005 a special edition 'Max Wild' liveried version was produced by Conrad. In green, it also included a sorting grab which could be fitted to the long boom. The run was limited to 250 models. Also Conrad produced a limited edition of 150 models in green 'Alfred Arbogast' livery. Other liveries produced include an orange 'Kemmer' version and a red 'Oranje' version. In 2012 a version in Rino colours appeared.
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|  | High quality foam rubber packing. |  | Plastic tracks. |  | Demolition tool is good. |  | Boom and stick can be clipped together for transport. |
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