Potain MDT178  City Topless Tower Crane

Presented here is the 1:50th scale Potain MDT178 tower crane.

This is the first mass produced 1:50th scale lattice tower crane and it's a monster, with a height of almost 1.5 metres and a jib length of 1.4 metres. The base of the crane is fitted to a heavy white stone base which gives the model substantial weight to prevent the model being knocked over. The four stabilisers can be rotated to lower them to ensure the mast remains perpendicular. The instructions in the box suggest this is checked after the model has been erected for 5 days.

Each main mast section has a detailed metal ladder and walkway with etched grill and cage protection over each ladder just like the real crane. Each section is connected using four small screws and there are thirteen sections in total, each one measuring 100mm. The model is supplied pre-assembled with a ten section and three section sub-assembly. TWH have even included a screwdriver in the box, complete with Potain logo.

Mast section showing internal ladder, safety cage and walkway.

There are sixteen base weights which fit to the frame of the crane. There are three different types of weight that fit together, including two which have the Potain name plate fitted to them. The assembly of the crane is very easy and withing a couple of minutes, the entire main mast is fully assembled.

At the top of the crane, the operator access walkways have all been reproduced, complete with etched floor panels, opening cab door and hydraulic winch motor hoses all present. The etched access panels go the entire length on the rear mast to the counterweight area and about a third the way along the front mast.

The main hook winch is operated with the supplied winding key and once the concrete bucket is fitted, there is enough weight for the hook to lower smoothly. Other details on the model include slewing motors, complete with cables and hoses and an auxiliary support crane winch and swinging arm.

The rear of the model has an opening where the seven counterweight sections slide into place. Each section pins together and the outer two have locating pins which fit into the slots to keep the weights in place. The prominent Potain name and logo is found on one side along with etched floor panels and handrails giving operator access to the weights. Each weight section has two lifting eyes fitted to add to the realism.

The trolley has an access platform fitted which moves along the jib as the trolley winch is turned. The movement of the trolley is smooth and is capable of traversing the full length of the jib. The concrete bucket supplied with the model features a fully working discharge mechanism which opens by pulling down the handle . This is another example of the great amount of functional detail found on each TWH model.

The paint finish is excellent and the model is available in two versions. The model here is painted in the US Red colours while a yellow and grey version is also available. The model is supplied in a large cardboard box with two piece polystyrene inner which protects the model very well and there is a colour booklet showing the real machine's technical details along with an extensive assembly guide with step by step assembly instructions.