Friend and fellow collector and custom scale model builder Gertjan Veld used the Caterpillar D9R Track-Type Tractor from NZG and a white metal boom kit made by HIMOBO in 1:50th scale to create his custom built Caterpillar 578 Pipelayer.

As a base for this project Gertjan uses the Caterpillar D9R Track-Type Tractor from NZG and two white metal/ brass kits from the Caterpillar 578 Boom made by HIMOBO and the rear winch kit #23 made in 2001 by cADSttachments in 1:50th scale which were purchased by Gertjan of Norbert Mietz - Modellspielwaren Mietz (msw-modelle.de), a German scale modelshop on the NAMAC swapmeeting at Houten, The Netherlands.

In the "Making-of Caterpillar 578 Pipelayer" we show step by step how this custom model has been achieved.

Gertjan shares his building skills through the photos with little notes guiding us in the construction process. Gradually it shows the making of his Caterpillar 578 Pipelayer.

Enjoy reading & watching!

Gertjan and Wouter

Caterpillar 578 Pipelayer

The Caterpillar 578 Pipelayer was produced between 1989 and 1997. The Caterpillar 578 series machines had a #8HB serial number prefix.

Specification highlights: :

• Caterpillar 3406B diesel Engine
• Net Power: 223 kW
• Operating Weight: 102.690lb
• Counterweight: 25.963lb
• SAE Ground clearance: 17.8"
• Travel Speed: Forwards: 2.35-6.7mph and Reverse: 2.9-8.6km/h
• Lift Capacity: 155.000lb up till 48"pipe