The Liebherr 1090-4.2 is a 1/50 scale model of a 90 tonne capacity, four-axle crane with a maximum lifting height of 60 m on the main boom.
NOT A TOY
Packaging ;
The model comes in a Liebherr branded box, with the model held in a pair of polystyrene trays.
The review model had no missing parts or defects.
There is no information about the actual machine or instructions for the model.
However, the card that comes with the model includes a QR code that links to the WSI website where information about the model is kept.
Details ;
The model is extremely detailed and has fully replicated transmission and suspension systems underneath and the wheels are very good, with a good tread pattern on the tyres and a slightly different wheel design on the non-drive axle.
The tires also have the Michelin brand on their sidewalls.
The detailing on the carrier is of a very high standard.
There is a loop at the front to attach the hook when travelling and the door steps are textured, with nice interior handles on the doors.
Inside the cabin, Liebherr is printed on the seat backrests and graphics are applied to the computer console and instrument panel.
Behind the driving cabin are mesh grilles that look very authentic together with the other parts.
Rubber skirts sit on each wheel, but they're perhaps a little too stiff.
The carrier deck has a very nice texture and there are foldable stairs.
At the rear there is a fixed ladder, light bars and license plate.
The support legs are very good, the pistons are smooth and the screw mechanism is internal so they look realistic.
They close completely in transport position.
Small plastic spreader plates are also provided.
The high-end detailing continues with a beautifully replicated cab interior featuring more graphics on the winch body, hydraulic hoses and controls.
The cylinder jacket on the hydraulic ram is metal.
The counterweight is made in parts so it can be installed just like the real crane and the VarioBallast system is well modelled.
A single winch is provided.
Detailing on the boom includes two reel drums, one of which is a separate piece that needs to be attached using plastic putty or adhesive when desired.
The boom sections are beautifully decorated with a realistic thin-walled profile.
The metal folding fly jib has well-formed cage workmanship.
A metal hook is supplied but it appears to be a little too large for use on a fly jib where a single line hook would be better.
The high level of detail includes a chain to mimic winch shearing and the free end of the winch rope slides into a mooring shackle.
However, both of these are permanently fixed, so they look less good with the fly jib attached.
Features ;
Each axle is steered independently and the steering action is good.
The model rolls in a straight line, but on the review model not all wheels were fully on the ground.
The steered model rolls, but the tires can easily spin.
The outriggers can be extended and lowered and feature a working locking mechanism that allows the pads to be fixed offset so that they remain within the crane footprint when the outriggers are retracted.
The range of motion on the pistons is very good and it is easy to pose the model without wheels.
The operator's cab can be tilted to a good angle. It also has a pull-out foot plate.
Ladders stowed on the carrier deck can be rotated and folded down.
A nice feature is that the four-piece counterweight can be displayed in various configurations, including different layouts on the carrier deck when the crane is in transport mode.
The VarioBallast system also works well, with the counterweight being able to be fixed to one of two different radii.
However, the review model experienced a problem in that the crane could not be rotated on the full counterweight stowed on the carrier deck.
The boom is easy to raise and is locked into place using a thumbscrew in the ram jacket.
The telescopic boom sections have three locking positions.
A key is provided to operate the winch, which has a brake function that works nicely and smoothly.
However, the hoist rope does not flow freely around solid sheave blocks.
The flying jib can be installed and displayed with the swing section open or closed.
A small guide wheel rises into place and is secured by a small brass nut and bolt, as is the operating ratchet that allows the offset angles to be adjusted.
Quality; The model is produced in high quality with high detail and minimum plastic.
The paint and graphics are excellent.
Price ;
The model is a good value.
Overall, WSI has produced another excellent model for Liebherr and it looks great without a doubt
