Hitachi ZX95US-7 Tracked Excavator

TMC Scalemodels are working on a number of new Hitachi 1:50^th scale models, the first of which to appear is the very impressive ZX95US-7 tracked excavator. Despite its small size, there is a lot of detail to be seen, starting with the undercarriage which is fitted with smooth surface individually linked pads that have tiny dimples to highlight the fixing bolts on each pad. The undercarriage has a dozer blade which has a limited range of height adjustment, and even the hydraulic supply lines have been modelled. Moving up to the superstructure, the large dimensions of the cabin have been accurately transposed, starting with the opening cab door which pivots a full 180 degrees to reveal the immaculate interior where nothing is left to the imagination. The coloured interior includes the driver’s seat, joystick controls, safety cut-off and tracking levers, topped with coloured handles. Exterior details include rear vire mirror, radio aerial and roof mounted work light with a front screen wiper. As we move to the rear, the engine cover can be lifted to reveal the interior of the engine bay where we find the 4-cylinder 4TNV98CT diesel engine. Moving to the hydraulics, the model packs an insane amount of detail, and surprisingly, the fixed hydraulic lines fitted to the boom are actually made of metal, and really enhance the looks of the model. There are a bundle of flexible hydraulic lines coming from the side housing which make their way to all the hydraulic cylinders, including the modelled auxiliary lines for powered equipment and the range of movement of the boom, stick and bucket linkage is accurate to the original. The model is finished with a toothed digging bucket. The pictures shown here are of the pre-production model which may be subject to change.