UPDATE ANNOUNCEMENT! Caterpillar 972K Wheel Loader [Tonkin 1:50]

Tonkin has given me permission to release today and simultaneously with the official launch in the Tookin Booth (Hall 7, Stand A51-A) during the Spielwarenmesse 2014 in Nuremberg on www.minimovers.nl the first pictures of their latest Caterpillar scale model in 1: 50th Construction Diecast Series:

• Caterpillar 972K Wheel Loader # TR10005

 

Caterpillar introduced in early 2011 at the CONEXPO, the newly developed 972K Wheel Loader as a successor to the Caterpillar 972H in their Medium Wheel loaders series and is designed to improve operator comfort, performance, and productivity, all while meeting Tier 4 Interim/Stage IIIB emission standards. 

Caterpillar developed the new optimized Z-bar linkage in conjunction with the Performance Series Buckets, Fusion™ coupler and Fusion™ family of work tools to ensure that all components function together to optimize visibility, performance and fuel efficiency. 

The reliability, durability, and versatility of the Caterpillar 972K Wheel Loader result in a machine that is better built to meet your needs. All day. Every day.
Specification highlights:

• Caterpillar C9.3 Acert Stage IIIB (Tier 4) Engine
• Net Power – ISO 9249: 288 hp
• Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight: 55770.0 lb
• Bucket Capacities: 3.75 yd3 - 13.00 yd3
• Transmission and speed Forward: 1-4: 4.4 – 22.9 mph
• Transmission and speed Reverse: 1-4: 5.0 – 26.2 mph
• Hydraulic Cycle Time – Total: 10.3 sec

The Caterpillar 972K Wheel Loader scale model is made in scale 1:50. As you expect from Tonkin this magnificent model has plenty of detail and functioning parts: A accurate working load frame with the Caterpillar "Fusion Quick Coupler", suspension, metal railing and amazing details like the tiny warning signs just like the real machine. Excellent job! The Retail Price is US $71.95 plus shipping. The scale model will be available for sales in February 2014 within the USA.

Curious to see more pictures? The full review of the scale model of the Caterpillar 972K Wheel Loader will be available later this week in the Collection catergory "Wheel Loaders" on my website.