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Caterpillar 966A Traxcavator

Maker:  Norscot
Model No:  55232
Scale:  1:50
Review Date:  March 2010


Norscot Index
Historic Equipment Index


Cranes Etc Model Rating
Packaging   (max 10)8
Detail   (max 30)25
Features   (max 20)13
Quality   (max 25)18
Price   (max 15)13
Overall   (max 100)77%

Footnotes


The Caterpillar 966A Traxcavator.
As a historic model, it comes in a different style box to the modern machine models.
Heavily treaded tyres.
Excellent controls and instruments.
Slightly off level step is a manufacturing issue on the review model only.
A very nicely detailed model.
The Caterpillar 966A Traxcavator was a wheel loader that was made between 1960 and 1963.  Over 2000 were produced in America in two variations of wheelbase.  It had a 2¾ yd³ bucket.

Packaging

The model comes in a different box design which reflects that this is a historic machine rather than one in the current Caterpillar range.  The box encloses a perspex display case with a black base which has a nameplate and the 966A is firmly attached to the base by removable screws.  Although the display case is not of the highest quality it does nicely protect the model from dust.

The review model had a slight defect with one step to the operator's seat being off level but there were no missing parts.

The cover of the box has a graphic with some of the features of the real machine marked and it also describes the main features of the model.

Detail

The model is quite small but has sharp detailing.  Underneath, there is little in the way of detail, but the tyres are of good quality rubber with a convincing tread pattern.  The wheel hubs are really good with fine etching of the wheel nuts.

The casting of the body is high quality with some good texturing of horizontal surfaces, and the radiator grille at the back.  Hinges on panels are detailed within the casting, and the lights at the front and rear look the part. 

The area around the operator's seat is very good, with control levers, pedals and instruments finely replicated.

The hinge work on the loader arm is good and although the rivets used are on the large size, they are painted so the look of the model is not impaired much.  Good detailing is also seen on the loader arm cylinder jackets where the hydraulic lines are modelled.  Some of the graphics applied to the loader arm structure are very small and perfectly legible. 

The bucket is a simple straightforward casting.

Features

The rear axle steers, although the steering angle is fairly shallow.

The bucket can be elevated to a reasonable height, and it tips fairly well although the range of movement is probably less than that of the real machine.

Quality

This model is very nicely made with fine quality castings and detailing all presented in an effective way.  There is a little plastic used, but you can hardly tell by looking, and the paintwork and graphics are really good.

Price

The model is priced very competitively for its quality.

Overall

Norscot have produced a high quality model of this historic machine and presented it well.  Some more information about the real machine would have been a nice touch for collectors, but overall it is highly recommended.

Footnotes

The model first appeared in 2009.

 
It has its own display case.
Bucket lift height is reasonable.
Fine grille details at the rear.
Painted rivets mean the model looks better.
Underneath view.  The steering is shown at its maximum.