Conrad Model Reviews

The Soilmec box does not indicate the model maker.

Well wrapped inside the box.

The only additional parts are a metal key for operating the winch and two pieces of plastic looking for a use.

The drilling bucket.

Solimec are an Italian company that makes a variety of foundation equipment. The Soilmec SR70 Hydraulic Rotary Rig is a 75 tonne class machine which can be reduced to a minimum 55 tonnes for transport by removing the counterweight, tracks and kelly bar. It can construct piles up to 2.5m diameter and up to 77m deep and can be rigged to drill with a Continuous Flight Auger (CFA). To see a photo of the real machine click here.

Foundation machines have been relatively rare in terms of mass produced scale models, with relatively few hand built models available. This is a 1:50 scale model produced in China but the manufacturer is not declared on the box or the model.

The model comes in a conventional box with an outer cardboard sleeve containing an expanded polystyrene tray and lid. Inside the model is fully reeved and needs no assembly. The only other parts are a key for operating the winches and a couple of pieces of plastic which do not have an obvious use.

There are no instructions provided and although the model is not complicated a sheet with diagrams would be helpful to the novice collector.

Commencing with the undercarriage, the track frames are metal and well detailed and include steps to provide operator access to the cab. The idlers are not separate rollers but rely on the tracks just passing across the casting. The tracks are metal and are finely made.

Overall the body has a clean cut and pleasing appearance. The detail in the cab is very good with controls, computer screen and a fire extinguisher (although it is black). There are no mirrors or windscreen wipers and the debris guards. Behind the cab the body has good detail including grilles and panel handles, and there is a metal access ladder to the roof. At the rear the Soilmec name is pleasingly in relief within the casting of the counterweight. On the side opposite the operator's cab the bodywork is marred slightly by the hole needed for the winch key and an opening panel to gain access the winch would have been better. There is also a small mirror on the top of the body but it lacks a mirrored surface.