First impression
The excavator is delivered in an aluminum case with an outer box. The free spaces in the aluminum case are filled with styrofoam so that nothing can happen to the excavator on the long journey. When unpacking our copy, a small transport damage was noticed. The thread of the upper eye of the cylinder of the stem has been torn out. We have temporarily patched the damage and are curious to see how good the manufacturer's spare parts supply is. A first important test. There are also a few small paint spots that are not perfect. We are reluctant to accept that at the price, but with a construction machine it is only a matter of time before more are added.
Initial inspection
In the next step, we took a closer look at the model and are very positively surprised. Many details are shown. The model is made almost entirely of metal. The technology is housed in the superstructure and easily accessible via doors that can be opened. The supplied battery (Li.-Ion with 14.500mA) is housed in the rear weight and can be charged via the supplied USB cable without having to be removed. If you want to change the battery, you can remove the rear weight with knurled screws and you can get the 7,2V battery. Incidentally, the battery is connected to the model via the XT60 connector. If you already have this system in your fleet, you can also use your existing batteries.
scale
One question we've read a lot is the yardstick. We put the model on a Tamiya / Carson Goldhofer for comparison. The scale fits very well. The superstructure is 17,5cm wide, which corresponds exactly to a scale of 1:14. The scale is not meticulously met throughout the model. The undercarriage, for example, is designed a bit coarser, which would be 1:12 in size comparison. Overall, the model of the 16t excavator can be used very well in conjunction with Tamiya / Carson.
Here we go
But now we finally wanted to go. The battery supplied is almost fully charged. Another four AA batteries or rechargeable batteries in the transmitter and off you go. According to the 8-page operating manual, 100ml hydraulic oil should be filled in before the excavator is put into operation. Our model was already completely filled with oil and vented. So, plug in the battery, switch it on and off we went.
The transmitter supplied is already configured with the "normal" control. So you can actually start right away. All movements work, the light can be switched on or flashing (what you need the flashing function for remains hidden from us).
Result
The hydraulic pump can be switched off, mixed or operated continuously. The volume of the pump is a positive surprise. Just like the rotator. At “full throttle” the two caterpillar drives can be heard clearly. In comparison with the Carson drives of the LR634, however, at best on the same level.
The movements are a bit rough in the basic configuration. However, this can be adjusted according to the driver's wishes. And that brings us to a very nice and important detail. The remote control is connected via a "normal" receiver. In other words, those who already have a control system for their vehicle fleet (e.g. Servonaut HS12 / HS16) can swap the receiver and replace it with the system of their choice. No sound module is included in the delivery condition. Since there is still space in the upper structure, this can be retrofitted very easily. That comes at the top of the list of things to do with the excavator.
What are the next steps?
Technically, you can say that the hydraulics are tight and well vented. The valves seem to be made to fit perfectly. The excavator keeps the arm at the same level when it is fully extended, even over a longer period of time. There is some play in the arm / handle / spoon. Admittedly less than expected, but in total so much that we don't want to leave it that way. The model can be used as delivered. But that's too easy for us ... The list of planned extensions:
- Convert to Servonaut HS16
- Installation of a sound module with loudspeaker
- Refinishing the joints to further reduce play
Conclusion
The model is a real sensation for the price. The play value is given immediately. It is particularly gratifying that it does not have to stay with the finished model. Every owner can change the model a good bit according to their own wishes without having to make large investments. Now “the little one” can prove himself in practice. Let's see how the excavator masters the first few hours on the construction site. We will report on the planned conversions as well as the upcoming practical assignments. Stay tuned & above all healthy!
