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Last month I recieved from the IMC Models Construction models Webshop this next addition by Diecast Masters in their 1:50th scale diecast "High Line Series" in my collection and today I had some time and took it to the photo set:

• Caterpillar 320 “Next Gen” Hydraulic Excavator #85569

The new Caterpillar 320 Excavator, also announced as the "Next Generation Design" or short “Next Gen” Caterpillar Track-Type Hydraulic Excavator is the successor to the "F" Series in 1:1th scale, but because Caterpillar has changed his machine type numbering and stopped adding the successor letter it just will be released as the "320" Series.

The Caterpillar 320 “Next Gen” Track-Type Hydraulic Excavator in 1:1th scale is equipped with a Caterpillar C4.4 ACERT engine delivering 162hp Net Power. The machine has a operating Weight of 49,600lb Boom reach 18'8", Stick reach 9'6" and a bucket Capacity of 1.56yd3.

My first impression: the Caterpillar 320 “Next Gen” Track-Type Hydraulic Excavator has a detailed cab interior, including "Bob" the operator. Authentic Cat Machine Yellow paint. Functional boom, stick and bucket and equipped with metal tracks. Finishing touch are the authentic railings, grab rails and hydraulic hoses. I personally find it a missed opportunity that the sticks are not equipped with a quick release coupler to give the collector an option to remove the standard bucket for another (Caterpillar) Bucket or Work Tool.

Enjoy the first photos! Curious for more? The complete review with more pictures from the scale model, machine in 1:1 and background information is added in the category Hydraulic Excavators

Airbrush1zu50 is run by Danny Laible from Germany and specializes in custom "aging" of (Caterpillar) scale models in all scales. Became curious? Visit his Facebook page to get an impression of his impressive skills!

Created as a "one of a kind" or in a small series the mini masterpieces he created that you might encounter in everyday life. Some of his recent projects are a Caterpillar 785D Off-Highway Truck, Caterpillar D6 "Next Gen" Track-Type tractor and the Caterpillar 973 Track Loader.

At your request, he will age existing Caterpillar scale models from Classic Construction Models or Diecast Masters or a Golden Oldie from former licensee like Conrad, NZG, Norscot or JOAL, so that they can then be placed in a diorama lifelike and indistinguishable from the 1:1. In one word: IMPRESSIVE!

Already two weeks I received from Roy Ferguson Sales in America this latest addition in my collection made by Classic Construction Models (CCM) and today I was able to take it to the photo set:

• Caterpillar 973 Track Loader with Demolition Package

Introduced in 1982 as a replacement to the Caterpillar 977L, the Caterpillar 973 Track Loader was produced within the USA, Japan and France. Features a 3306 Turbocharged Diesel engine mounted in the rear to improve operator sight while also providing a natural balance for the machine with a loaded bucket, eliminating the need for a counterweight and producing 210HP @ 2200RPM. Designed for less than ideal conditions that are found in demolition and steel foundry applications, the Caterpillar 973 Demolition package includes a Peterson Demolition Bucket, sound suppressed cab, and full demolition guards including a windshield screen, tilt cylinder guards, front guard, idler guards, bottom guard, fender guards, and rear bumper guard.

This die-cast scale model Caterpillar 973 Track Loader with Demolition Package is made in a limited edition of only 500 pieces in 2019 by CCM in scale 1:48 The scale model is packaged in a deluxe gift box and comes with a signed certificate. I'm the happy collector with in possession #322.

All aspects of the Caterpillar 973 Track Loader with Multi-Purpose Bucket are captured just like the 1:1 version and to the usual level of CCM's exacting detail, including hydraulic lines, Closed ROPS Operator’s Station with detailed working stations in a sound suppressed cab, and full demolition guards. The Operator only has to start the machine! Retail Price: $224.95 and shipping cost.

My first impression: a very complete scale model a nice addition in my Caterpillar Track Loader 973 series. More than well worth the wait! Together with his two brothers this is a must have for every Caterpillar collector.

Enjoy the first photos! Curious for more? I will add the complete review with more pictures from the model, machine in 1:1 and background information in the category Track Loaders So stay tuned!

Already a few years ago I received from France ​​this custom made addition in my collection and today did find the time and took it to the photo set:

• Caterpillar PS-300B Pneumatic Tire Compactor #KCP042

Creatpshop is a small French company, owned by Elie Pinocheau, which produces limited series models of rare and special road construction machinery, trucks and accessories which you certainaly might see if you travel across the French roads and bump in to road construction work in progress.

The Caterpillar PS-300B Pneumatic Tire Compactor is powered by a Caterpillar 3054T DIT four cylinder Diesel Engine producing 99hp at 2,200 RPM. Maximum weight per wheel 6,600 lb and a operating weight 46,200lb.

This Caterpillar PS-300B Pneumatic Tire Compactor in 1:50th scale is made of resin material and is custom built by Elie in the original Caterpillar factory version but can also be supplied in a specific company colors upon request. Build yourself? Then order the kit under number #KC042.

Enjoy the first photos! Curious for more? The complete review with more pictures from the Caterpillar PS-300B Pneumatic Tire Compactor scale model, machine in 1:1 and background information is added in the category Compactors

Already a long while ago I received from America ​​this latest addition in my collection and today I did find the time and took it to the photo set:

• Kenworth K100G 1997 6x4 Cabover Truck

Iconic Replicas was established in Melbourne, Australia in January 2017 and is a family owned and operated business run by Leigh Hudson specialised in 1:50th Scale collectable models of Australian trucks like the PoweredbyCat Kenworth K100G and transport equipment like a 40ft Flat Rack and Open Top Container shipping all over the world.

The good news for collectors in the Netherlands (and within Europe) is that all Iconic Replicas scale models are now also available exclusively at ScandiGifts.nl run by Simon and Anton Verhagen from the Netherlands. Highly recommended.

The Kenworth K100G 1997 6x4 Cabover Truck with Caterpillar (or a Cummins) engine is one of the first cast models released by Iconic Replicas, under license from Kenworth Australia's, small series of trucks in basic and corporate colors. The quality is certainly equivalent to IMC Models/Tekno/WSI. Much attention has been paid to the model, numerous details and the cabin can tilt which reveals the Caterpillar Engine! There is also a extra set with two types of exhaust and air cleaner pipes supplied. (Great for future renovations -))

My first impression: a very complete high quality scale model with a lott off value for your money and therefore is this Kenworth K100G 1997 6x4 Cabover Truck a great addition in my PoweredbyCat series. I'm already looking forward to the next tractor or transport combination from Down Under: KEEP THEM COMING!

For the coming period (note: it will not go fast) there are plenty of new projects on the roll. If you want to stay informed of the latest news, just follow Iconic Replicas on Facebook.

Custom scale model builder Matteo from Trilex Modelli is in the final stages and making good progress on one of his latest projects: Building a ACCO Super Bulldozer in 1:50th scale.

The ACCO Super Bulldozer is the largest and most powerful Track-Type Tractor ever made. It was built in Italy, by the Umberto Acco company. The ACCO super bulldozer was constructed mainly of Caterpillar parts. This bulldozer has a gross weight of 183 tons and is powered by two 675hp Caterpillar engines and has a dozer blade that is 23 ft.

Today time for an update of this "The making of... a ACCO Super Bulldozer" where Matteo will guide you by the complete design and construction process of this unique scale model, and the end result shall eventually, as a real custom builder wants to achieve display the 1: 1 machine as naturally as possible. You will be amazed with the high standards he sets!

Matteo shares his building skills through its construction photos with little notes to keep us informed of the building process. Gradually it shows the making of a unique model of the ACCO Super Bulldozer and a for me personally a unique addition to my PoweredBy Caterpillar collection!

Last week I received from Roy Ferguson Sales in America this latest addition in my collection made by Classic Construction Models (CCM) and today I was able to take it to the photo set:

• Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9C Cushion Blade

Introduced in 1961 as a replacement for the Caterpillar D9E, the Caterpillar D9G was the largest dozer produced at the time of it’s introduction. Features a D353 Turbocharged Diesel engine producing 385HP at 1,330RPM. Featuring a 3-speed planetary Power Shift Transmission, the D9G is capable of top forward speeds of 6.5 MPH and up to 7.9 MPH in reverse. With a wide range of tools and attachments, the Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor was one of the most powerful, productive, and versatile machines in the Caterpillar® lineup. Some of the most notable uses of the D9G were for push-loading scrapers, although it could be equipped with rippers, one of several types of blades available, or configured as a Caterpillar DD9G "QUAD" with Dual Caterpillar D9 Tractors in tandem for use in a wide variety of applications where the full power of two tractors was needed.

Equipped with the Caterpillar 9C Push Blade and Cushion Push Block, this configuration provided flexibility in push-loading situations. Mounted to the main frame, the Cushion Bulldozer features rubber springs behind the blade to absorb on-the-go shock contact.

This die-cast scale model Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9C Cushion Blade is made in a limited edition of only 500 pieces in 2018 by CCM in scale 1:48 The scale model is packaged in a deluxe gift box and comes with a signed certificate. I'm the happy collector with in possession #220.

All aspects of the Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9C Cushion Blade are captured just like the 1:1 version and to the usual level of CCM's exacting detail, including hydraulic lines and full sight on the engine compartiment. The Caterpillar 9C Cushion Blade and the rear mounted Push Block are functional and very detailed. The Operator can start working! Retail Price: $299.95 and shipping cost.

My first impression: a very complete scale model a nice addition in my Caterpillar Track-Type tractor D9G series. More than well worth the wait! Together with his two brothers this is a must have for every Caterpillar collector.

Enjoy the first photos! Curious for more? I have added the complete review with more pictures from the model, machine in 1:1 and background information in the category Track-Type Tractor

This weekend CCM has informed his dealers that a new scale model in their 1:48 Die-Cast series will be released:

• Caterpillar 583K Pipelayer with Caterpillar 58 Winch

Introduced in 1974, the Caterpillar 583K Pipelayer offered various improvements over the previous Caterpillar 583H, including a combined steering and braking function adopted from the Caterpillar D8K Track-Type Tractor.

Powered by a Caterpillar D342 turbocharged diesel engine providing up to 300 HP at the flywheel. Equipped with a planetary power-shift transmission, this machine has 3 forward and 3 reverse gears with a top forward speed of 6.8 MPH and is capable of up to 8.4 MPH in reverse.

With a side-boom capacity of 140,000 lbs., the hydraulically actuated counterweights are high mounted to provide excellent side and bottom clearance, while the over-center design prevents creep out while retracted. An automatic boom kickout device comes standard on the Caterpillar 583K Pipelayer, preventing boom bending by disengaging the boom raise circuit as the boom reaches vertical. The three-piece pipelayer frame is mounted directly to the track roller frame and main frame and can be removed to reduce the overall width for transport.

A wide-gauge track frame and extra wide track shoes provides stability and load carrying capacity while increasing floatation and extend the Caterpillar 583K's ability to work on soft terrain. Bolt-on sprockets allow for change in the field without breaking the track or removing the roller frame, reducing downtime for maintenance.

Specification highlights:

• Engine: Caterpillar D342 Diesel Engine
• Net Power – 300hp
• Pipelayer side-boom capacity: 140,000 lbs
• Maximum Travel Speed: forward: 6.8mph - reverse: 8.4mph
• Atachements: Caterpillar 58 Winch

The first (pre) production scale model photos with all the details, the final limited production run numbers with sales price and the delivery schedule (At this moment expected Q1 2020) from this scale model will be posted on this website when available.

Do you want to know more about this or other unique scale models from Classic Construction Models? Stay tuned to www.minimovers.nl for all upcoming, available and closed editions released by CCM.

Fire Replicas has out of the blue announced another big surprise with the release of their first Oshkosh Striker 4500 scale model starting from Q3-2019 in their 1:50th scale diecast "Museum grade ARFF Crash Trucks Series":

• Oshkosh Striker 4500 8x8 "Chicago O'Hare ARFF 6510"

The 1:1 Oshkosh Striker 4500 ARFF is made within the USA and equipped with a Caterpillar C18 inline six-cylinder Engine providing 950 hp at 2,100 rpm. So this PoweredbyCAT scale model is definitly a MUST HAVE in my collection.

Oshkosh Striker 4500 8x8 "Chicago O'Hare ARFF 6510" is now available to order. The first production model of the Oshkosh 4500 Striker 8x8 is limited to 150 units. ARFF 6510 is hand-crafted from over 900 individual parts and includes a fully custom display case. O'Hare 6510 will be available to ship in late September or early October 2019.

Like all Fire Replicas models, every detail is modeled to perfection and with razor sharp precision. The replica features the specific department configuration and graphics, leaving no detail overlooked. The display case is custom manufactured with high quality acrylic and resin. The stainless steel etched plate features the department and truck name, and department seal. This replica is a treasure to be displayed and admired and is in no way a toy.

Last week I received from Roy Ferguson Sales in America this latest addition in my collection made by Classic Construction Models (CCM) and today I was able to take it to the photo set:

• Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9R Rip Blade

Introduced in 1961 as a replacement for the Caterpillar D9E, the Caterpillar D9G was the largest dozer produced at the time of it’s introduction. Features a D353 Turbocharged Diesel engine producing 385HP at 1,330RPM. Featuring a 3-speed planetary Power Shift Transmission, the D9L is capable of top forward speeds of 6.5 MPH and up to 7.9 MPH in reverse. With a wide range of tools and attachments, the Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor was one of the most powerful, productive, and versatile machines in the Caterpillar® lineup. Some of the most notable uses of the D9G were for push-loading scrapers, although it could be equipped with rippers, one of several types of blades available, or configured as a Caterpillar DD9G "QUAD" with Dual Caterpillar D9 Tractors in tandem for use in a wide variety of applications where the full power of two tractors was needed.

Equipped with the Caterpillar 9R Rip Blade with extendable ripper bits and Multi-Shank Ripper with 4-Can Hydraulics this machine is ideal for breaking up hard ground, cutting roots and removing stumps, ripping along high walls, and bulldozing. Hydraulic ripping shanks at each corner of the blade can be extended up to 12″.

This die-cast scale model Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9R Rip Blade is made in a limited edition of only 500 pieces in 2018 by CCM in scale 1:48 The scale model is packaged in a deluxe gift box and comes with a signed certificate. I'm the happy collector with in possession #423.

All aspects of the Caterpillar D9G Track-Type Tractor with 9R Rip Blade are captured just like the 1:1 version and to the usual level of CCM's exacting detail, including hydraulic lines and full sight on the engine compartiment. The Caterpillar 9R Rip Blade with extendable ripper bits and the rear mounted Multi-Shank Ripper with 4-Can Hydraulics are functional and very detailed. The Operator can start working! Retail Price: $2899.95 and shipping cost.

My first impression: a very complete scale model a nice addition in my Caterpillar Track-Type tractor D9G series. More than well worth the wait! Together with his two brothers this is a must have for every Caterpillar collector.

Enjoy the first photos! Curious for more? I have added the complete review with more pictures from the model, machine in 1:1 and background information in the category Track-Type Tractor