Caterpillar Diesel D8
Tractor
designed by Bruce Geange.
text and pictures by Bruce Neilson.
© Copyright in all forms is retained by the designer for this model plan.
The prototype:-
The prototype is the 1938,15 ton, 100hp Caterpillar tractor, powered by a six cylinder diesel engine and illustrated in the original advertising brochure at the bottom of the page. The sales pitch in the brochure described how the operator was absolutely spoiled by his working conditions.
"Even in the matter of controls, comfort is not overlooked. Composition handles are used instead of metal handles, a feature that means much to the operator especially in hot or cold weather."!!
We wonder whether the Company also supplied umbrellas and rain coats to protect the operator from the weather?
The model:-
This model,which is based on the information contained in the brochure, is the latest in a series of Meccano Tractor models and features:
I - Motor - Six speed PDU
concealed in the engine housing with chain drive back to two Socket Couplings
which engage/disengage the drive.
2 - Power Supply - A flat battery box fits under the engine housing and blends
into the under shadow.
3 - Steering - Each track is put out of gear for steering using a skid turn.
4 - Reversing - A Forward/Off/Reverse electric switch controls the PDU Motor.
5 - Detailing - The engine housing is detailed with items from the prototype.
Radiator has had the distinctive grill pattern reproduced. Tool box with hinged
lid. Swinging drawbar.
The model is built in modules and the order of building and attaching the modules is suggested as follows:- Chassis, Radiator, PDU Motor and mounts, Gearbox including driving levers and electric switch, Drivers seat including mudguards and toolbox, Draw bar, Engine compartment sides and top, and Track frames.
A ball nose Allen key is recommended to get at bolts in awkward places.
Before starting, please study all the pictures. Because this model has been photographed after completion, some modules appear in more than one picture from various angles. Construction of the model is described on the next seven pages. Extra copies of this issue of the magazine are available for $7 in NZ, $9 Overseas. Please contact the Editor at the address on page 2.
An image of the completed model can be seen on the cover.
