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Caterpillar 966M Wheel Loader Maker:  Diecast Masters Model No:  85948 Scale:  1:87 Review Date:  April 2017 Diecast Masters Index Mining / Quarry  Equipment Index Cranes Etc Model Rating Packaging   (max 10) 9 Detail   (max 30) 22 Features   (max 20) 13 Quality   (max 25) 19 Price   (max 15) 12 Overall   (max 100) 75% Footnotes Caterpillar 966M and 972M Wheel Loaders Video  [Youku video] High quality tin. Bucket lift height is restricted. Decent steering angle. Figure in the cab.   With a Caterpillar 972M (on the right). Detailed tiny logo graphic. At work. The Caterpillar 966M Wheel Loader has an operating  weight of 23.2 tonnes.  It is used for material handling and related quarry operations. Packaging The model comes in excellent packaging.  There is an outer shipping carton which contains a tin which is protected by a nylon bag.  The tin is high quality and includes pictures and details about the real machine. The review model had no missing parts or defects. The only thing missing is information for the model, but a mini catalogue of the Diecast Masters range is included. Detail Underneath, the model is metal with some detail although the front driveshaft is missing and there are four black screw heads visible which would have been better painted. The wheels are detailed with nice tyres with a matt finish. At the rear the grille is good and the lights and side grilles are indicated by graphics.  There is a tiny Cat logo. The cab is plastic and is detailed, considering the scale, with wipers and silvered mirrors.  There is a plastic grab rail and inside there is an operator wearing bright high visibility clothing.  The handrails are plastic and look good, and the walking surfaces are textured. Hydraulic ram pistons cross the pivot point. The loader arm has the relatively large riveted connections painted. The metal bucket is a nice casting with distinct teeth and wear plates on the lower edge. Features It rolls very easily.  There is loose steering across the pivot point that achieves an angle of about 45°. The bucket achieves a good cut angle pose, and the carry angle is reasonably good. The height of lift for the bucket is restricted compared to the real machine, and the tipping angle is restricted. Quality It is a strong small model with a high metal content. The paint is good and the graphics are sharp. Price It is reasonable value. Overall Diecast Masters has made a good job of the 966M in this small scale.  It would look good on a low loader in the same scale, or on a HO model railway layout. Footnotes The model became available in January 2017.   Detailed wheels and nice tyres. Hand rails are plastic and thin. It is simple underneath.   Carrying rocks. Profile view.