 | | JCB branded box. |  |  | | Backhoe detail level is good. |  | | Detailed cab. |  | | Transmission is modelled. |  | | Backhoe reaches high enough, front loader is not so good. |  | | At work. |  | | Profile view. |
|  Comment on this model.
The JCB 3CX Contractor weighs 8.2 tonnes. It has a more powerful engine than other 3CX versions.
This is an updated model with revised graphics compared to the previous version released around 2006.
Packaging
The model comes in a JCB-branded box and the model is held between two clear plastic formers.
There were no missing parts or defects on the review model.
There is no information about the real machine or model included.
Detail
Underneath, the two axles have differentials and the transmission is modelled, partially in relief. The tyres are decent and the wheels are detailed with plain inside faces.
At the rear the backhoe is modelled well with small connection pins and screws, but there are no hydraulic hoses. The small bucket is good.
There are plastic access steps leading to the cab. The detailing inside and outside the cab is good, with the mirrors and handrails being flexible plastic. There is a JCB logo on the seat back.
The engine cover is fairly simple with a plastic exhaust pipe.
The loader assembly has some screwed connections and some large silver rivet heads which give the model a dated appearance. Again there are no hydraulic hoses.
The metal bucket is a single casting.
Features
The wheels roll and the front axle steers. However the model tends to slide rather than move in a curve when the steering is set.
At the rear the backhoe side shift works but it is very stiff and jerky. The boom and stick have reasonable movement and the rams will not hold some poses.
Rotational movement at the boom foot is not helped by the false hydraulic cylinder. On the other hand the Extradig function on the stick works well, if a little stiffly.
The outriggers cannot be lowered so some backhoe poses look unrealistic.
The loader mechanism is very restricted in terms of movement, particularly height and tipping, and will not hold all poses.
Quality
This is a reasonable quality model with some plastic used.
The graphics and paint are very good.
Price
The model price is a little high for an older casting.
Overall
In terms of looks this model is reasonably good however the functionality falls short in a number of areas.
Footnotes
This version of the model appeared in October 2014. The first version was released in 2006.
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|  | | Steering angle is a little shallow. |  | | Rivets on the loader arm. |  | | No hoses. | |
|  | | Painted rivets. |  | | Generally looks good. |
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