TWH 001 - Potain IGO 21 Mobile Tower Crane
Model Review November 2005
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| The model comes in two variants, Potain yellow and Manitowoc red.. |
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| Potain picture box. |
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| The model packed in the box. |
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| The parts out of the box. |
The Potain IGO Mobile Tower Crane is a self erecting tower crane of the type which is popular in Europe. This version of the crane can lift 1.8t to a maximum height of 19.3m. Loads can be lifted to a maximum radius of 26m.
This is the first model to be produced by Towsleys in association with the Chinese model maker Wan Ho (hence the name TWH Collectibles). Outside the USA the model is distributed by NZG as model number 603. This is a 1:50 scale model of the Potain IGO 21. It is an newer version of the crane previously modelled by Conrad (see review here).
The model comes in two colours, Potain yellow and Manitowoc red. Both versions of the model were reviewed.
Packaging
The model comes in twin polystyrene trays held together with a picture sleeve. Inside the model is carefully packed and wrapped to prevent damage and both review models were unblemished. However the model in Manitowoc red was missing the hook and this was supplied by NZG separately although not in the correct colour. Included is a twelve page booklet in English which gives information about the real machine. However there is no specific information on the model or how it is erected or operated.
Detail
The initial impressions of the model are very encouraging as it oozes detail. Two axles are supplied for when the crane is being transported. Both are all metal parts with excellent wheel hubs and treaded tyres. The outriggers and pads are also all metal. Contained within the under frame are two wires complete with plugs which replicate those found on the real machine which are for plugging in a power supply. Also visible is a toothed slewing ring.
Moving to the crane body, each side has an opening door which reveals excellent detail inside; cabinets and motors are all faithful copies of the original. Each counterweight piece is superbly cast with a lifting eye and a step iron. The mast sections and all connecting pieces are very well made and are metal except the hydraulic cylinder casing which is plastic. The mast also has a ballasting derrick attached complete with line and tiny hook. All moving parts are particularly smooth.
