In this Making-of Caterpillar D9 "Next Generation" McCullochs Cable Plow we will show how this custom model will be achieved.
Ad shares his building skills through the photos with little notes guiding us in the construction process. Gradually it shows the making of a unique model by using the donor Caterpillar D9T Dozer from Diecast Masters in 1:50th scale to create his one of kind Caterpillar D9 "Next Generation" McCullochs Cable Plow
Enjoy reading & watching!
Ad and Wouter
What preceded
Ad got the inspiration for this project when he after a thourough search came across a single photo and a short Facebook Reel on the internet of a very unique machine: Caterpillar D9 "Next Generation" McCullochs Cable Plow which delivered to Telstra Corporation Limited, Australia's largest telecommunications company..
McCullochs, founded in 1945, A Family Legacy Rooted in Innovation, based in Epsom, Australia had designed a "Zero Tension" Cable Laying Plow kit, for laying both copper and fiber-optic communications cable.
Their unique system eliminates tension on the cable, preventing stress and potential breakage. Perfect for a wide range of applications, the kit seamlessly integrates with various machines, including popular brands like Caterpillar!
The McCullochs zero tension kit comes complete with all the necessary hydraulic & electrical equipment. It comes with full circuit drawings to allow plumbing & electrical wiring.
McCullochs can supply equipment in kit form for fitting by the customer, or they can complete the whole job to a turnkey finished system.
The Kickoff
Ad started by purchasing the 1:50 scale Caterpillar D9T Dozer from Diecast Masters. He was able to build almost the entire scale model without modifications, providing a solid foundation for this project.
The Engine hood and Lift Cylinders
The main components that need to be converted from the Caterpillar D9T Dozer to the Caterpillar D9 "Next Generation" Dozer are the engine hood and lift cylinders.
The cylinder mounting needs to be adjusted. The actual soldering of the workpiece is only 20% of the job. Fixing and securing the workpiece to ensure proper soldering without distortion is the remaining 80%.
The saying goes: "Good preparation is half the job!"
The mounting point of the Dozer blade frame
The mounting rod from the dozer blade to the frame is no longer used, but then there is no longer a mounting point on the dozer, so Ad made it himself from brass material on the Lathe and then glued it in the correct position to the dozer frame.
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