1:50 Scale Model Caterpillar 785D Mining Truck

The 1:50th scale Caterpillar 785D mining truck from Norscot is another welcomed addition to the Caterpillar model collection and was a surprise when it was announced, especially as the 797F had been announced just 2 months before.

The front of the model has a textured cooling grill and access steps rising across the front of the engine bay. The bumper has four work lights with painted lenses along with accurately scaled metal safety railings and access steps. The casting even caters for the front mud flaps which have been painted on to give a realistic look.

The large tryes have an authentic tread pattern with a slight bulge in the side walls and the inner wheel hubs have bolt head detailing cast into them. The front axle features working steering of the front wheels and there is an average amount of movement in the mechanism whilst the rear wheel drive housing has functional suspension which is another nice addition to the model.

The cab interior has been replicated with steering wheel and drivers seat visible through the clear windows.

Grab rails have been added to the cab frame and the casting has crisp door frame detailing and weight indication systems visible. 

The upper deck has several components fitted including filtration units and cylinder. The side mounted mirror is hinged and can be positioned in the folded or extended position. The large mirror fitted to the drivers side has a silver painted surface to simulate a reflective mirror and is fixed in place.

The main fuel tank has cast guages with protective surrounds just like the full sized truck. The two stage tip cylinders are connected to the chassis low down and allow for full and accurate dump body movement.

 The underside of the dump bed has simulated mud guards, made from plastic. The ribbed support structure is also visible when the bed is raised.

The dump body can be raised to a very realistic angle and this is a welcome feature on the model. This is achieved from the two stage hydraulic cylinders which have a stiff movement allowing the bed to be positioned as required without it lowering on its own. 

The two wheel cleaning bars have been fitted to the underside of the bed along with the simulated safety tie rope used during maintenance to keep the body in the raised position.

The picture below shows the size comparison between the 785D and the recently released 772 quarry truck.

Source: MINIATURE CONSTRUCTION WORLD