SK75SR-7 Expert review
The SK75SR-7 excavator was launched at Bauma, with an all-new cabin design and seat. Launched alongside the machine was the scale model which proved to be a sell-out at the show. Read the honest review of the expert collector below.
SK75SR-7 - BUY HERE
Author: Steven Downes
Publication: Truck, Plant & Machinery Model World Magazine
Kobelco are about to launch the SK75SR-7 tracked excavator, a mid-range excavator tipping the scales between 8 and 9 ton depending on configuration. It is powered by a stage V compliant Yanmar 4TNV98CT diesel engine and has an increased digging force, faster cycle time and improved arm digging speed over its predecessor. The full-sized cabin with redesigned interior and air suspension seat offers increased operator comfort.
It is no surprise that a replica of the SK75SR-7 has been produced to coincide with the launch and after taking a look at the SK350LC-10, I now turn my attention to the smallest Kobelco model to be produced so far in 1:50th scale. The model has been produced by Motorart and follows the same levels of detail and functionality as their other recent releases. The small dimensions of the digging equipment have been nicely engineered to add as much functionality and detail as possible, including the network of hydraulic lines that travel along the back of the boom, with silver coloured flexible lines connecting to the bucket cylinder and auxiliary circuit representing armoured lines. All pin heads and rivets have been painted over and the range of movement is very impressive.
The compact shape of the body has been captured well, with surface engraving used to highlight the panel lines and handles while the upper grill has a slotted texture. The undercarriage has a fitted blade which can be adjusted in height with a protective cover over the cylinder which has fine flexible hydraulic lines added, showing excellent attention to detail. The track pads are of a triple grouser design with bolt heads showing, with the drive motors also showing all the bolt detailing
while the idler wheels are tensioned to keep the tracks in place. Despite the size, the tracks rotate rather well.
The exterior of the cabin incorporates a metal grab rail with rear view mirror while the windows have black printing used for the window seals. The clear glazing allows the interior detailing to shine, including the light grey coloured interior panels, side display console and rear storage area. The seat has been painted in a dark colour, as have the armrests which incorporate the joysticks. Foot pedals and tracking levers have been added, as has the hydraulic safety cut-off although this is missing the red tip. The model will be launched at the Bauma trade fair on the 8th April in Munich.
The Kobelco SK75SR-7 tracked excavator has been convincingly modelled in 1:50th scale, the dozer blade can be adjusted in height, and even has hydraulic lines fitted to the cylinder.
The contours of the body look good with a textured upper grill and highlighted panel handles.
The light grey interior has not been neglected, with plenty of interior realism.
