The 1:50 scale model of the Caterpillar D5H Dozer was released in 1986 as #2851 by Conrad Modelle.
The Caterpillar D5H Dozer in scale 1:50 is actually exactly the same as the Caterpillar D6H Dozer that was previously released by Conrad. Even the Conrad article number has not been changed and is the same as the D6H #2851. The story goes that at the request of Zeppelin Cat (Zeppelin Baumaschinen GmbH), the exclusive German importer of Caterpillar construction machines, the Caterpillar D5H variant was also made. The only difference is the type designation "D5H". Even the packaging is just the box of the Caterpillar D6H Dozer.
All in all I have been looking for this missing Conrad model in my Caterpillar collection for over 30 years. Apart from the scale model in the display case in the Conrad museum I only saw the model offered once on eBay but unfortunately I was just too late to bid.
After years of searching, in the spring of 2024 I unexpectedly got this rare Caterpillar D5H Dozer scale model in my possession. Curious about the whole story? Click on the photo
The Caterpillar D5H Dozer is a sleek scale model without much fuss. The tracks are made of black rubber and the dozer can drive because it is equipped with three rotating drive and guide rollers. The dozer blade is functionally designed with two hydraulic lifting cylinders and can move up and down. The cabin is very sober and equipped with only a seat for the operator and very limited operating equipment.
On top of the engine housing are two large spotlights, an exhaust and the air filter. At the rear, the machine is equipped with a ripper that can also be moved up and down functionally by the hydraulic lifting cylinder. Only one ripper tooth is mounted on the frame.
The Caterpillar color, name and type designation are in the so-called "Pacman" corporate identity that was applied to all Caterpillar machines between 1967 and 1989.
As far as I know now, there are three versions of the Caterpillar D5H Dozer released by Conrad: The open ROPS, the closed cab and a version in company colours.
If you also own an original Caterpillar D5H Dozer from Conrad, I would be happy to receive additional (background) information and perhaps new photos via info@minimovers.nl
Wouter
After years of searching I unexpectedly received my missing Caterpillar D5H Dozer scale model released by Conrad Modelle and so took the time in the evening to take a series of photos of this very precious addition to my collection.
Curious about the whole story? Click on the photo!
