The Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader in 1:50th scale is released by Diecast Masters in 2023 with #85682 within the Diecast "High Line Series".
Diecast Masters releases not only the latest Caterpillar 966 GC but also the 966, 972 XE, 980 and 982 XE “Next Generation” Series Wheel Loaders and confirms hereby their determination to produce highly authentic replicas with plenty of detail, functionality and value for money.
Presented in the “High Line Series Packaging Collectible”, full-color printed metal box, including machine photos and technical specifications about the 1:1 machine. Delivered in an outer shipping carton which contains the tin which is protected by a nylon bag all done to assure that scale model arrives in perfect condition.
As you expect from Diecast Masters this magnificent model has plenty of detail and functioning parts: A accurate working load frame but unfortunately NO Caterpillar "Fusion Quick Coupler" which would have been a really added value for money. SHAME! Present are suspension, metal railing and amazing details like the tiny warning signs just like the real machine. So overall: Excellent job!
Again there is certainly plenty of great detailing to be found, while still maintaining a rugged and sturdy feel when handled, so you don't feel you are going to break this Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader just by picking it up.
The rubber tires have a finely replicated tread pattern which looks good, while the plastic inner wheel hubs having a ring of tiny fixing silvered bolt heads as a highlight. The front axle is fixed to the chassis while the rear axle will oscillate. The articulating chassis is functional with a pair of hydraulic cylinders controlling the steering movement. At the front there are lights with indicators mounted on plastic stalks.
An fixed access ladder is fitted on both sides of the chassis providing access to the cabin platform and accurately scaled grab rails have been added to the cab door and frame. The handrails around the cab are metal. Watching the underside shows some detailing with the modelled transmission.
The rear counterweight has inset lights and surface detailing with the rear engine grille nicely capturing the looks of the 1:1 Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader. The detailing of the engine housing is very nicely done complete with side located rear facing lights which have painted lenses. At the rear the radiator bears the Caterpillar logo The upper walkway surfaces are textured with side grilles also very nicely highlighted formed by black painted graphics, emphasizing the ridged detail. To finish off, tiny safety labels have been added.
Diecast Masters has modelled the cabin interior with some fine external detailing of the cab including rear view silvered mirrors, front and rear facing lights integrated into the roof. There is no antenna o GPS fitted on top of the cab. Bob the operator is fixed within the cabin and not longer removable.
The cab interior has been modelled with a grey decorated driver's seat. The front console is also painted grey with a modelled side panel and external windscreen wipers on the front and rear window adding extra detail.
The various grab and safety railings are made from metal and they are very authentically scaled and look therefore realistic. The engine bay has cast handle detailing with a prominent (plastic) exhaust stack and air intake. A small access ladder have been added to one side of the rear counterweight with an anti-slip textured upper surface. There is a (nonfunctional) tow eye with pin molded into the underside of the counterweight.
Diecast Masters made the loader arms from their Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader raise to a reasonable height and the range of movement of the bucket tip linkage and loader arms have been authentically captured, allowing the model to be realistically posed loading a suitable kipper truck as the Caterpillar CT660 Kipper without any problems.
The main lift and bucket tip hydraulic cylinders have plastic piston jackets and have a nice smooth action and will hold at any position chosen. Without the addition of flexible hydraulic piping it misses adds to the realism. All the pin and rivet heads have been painted over which adds to the visual appearance.
The bucket is produced in metal and has been cast with plenty of surface detailing including the cutting surfaces with underside wear panels also modelled. The sides of the bucket have cutting plates while the upper surface of the bucket shows the structural details along with two modelled (but nonfunctional) lifting eyes.
Diecast Masters has done an excellent job with the final touch of this Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader. The paint finish on the model is of a high standard, with an even coating allowing the surface detailing to show through while the printing of the new Caterpillar HEX logo, and the markings are authentically applied with all lights and the mirror surfaces decorated.
The new Caterpillar 966 GC Wheel Loader within the Caterpillar Wheel Loader series in scale 1:50th can now simply be ordered via bol.com at DCM Diecast & Merchandise B.V
