By Carsten Bengs
Note: This feature was printed in the July TT&C 2011 issue.
Note: This feature was printed in the July TT&C 2011 issue.
 Erecting the tower.  MK 88 while traveling.  Storage of pads and folding ladder.  Really a great model the MK 88! More photos available in the July TT&C 2011 magazine. Call (701) 883-5206 to purchase. | Compact, fast to erect and large lifting capacities with enormous reaches—these are only a couple of facts that are typical for mobile construction cranes. This type of crane became really especially popular in Europe, as well as worldwide. Companies as Munsters of the Netherlands and Peiner of Germany laid the early roots some 10 years ago. While these names disappeared over time, today the biggest manufacturers of these kinds of cranes are Liebherr of Germany and Spierings of the Netherlands. While many crane rental companies highly appreciate these cranes, the range of die-cast models is growing as well since the last few years. After Spierings’ SK599 and Liebherr’s MK 100, collectors can now add also the smaller MK 88 to their own collection. Once more, Conrad has presented a superior model with some nice touches and a completely new addition, which I will review here. This crane was one of the Bauma 2010 novelties. A Mobile Crane Carrier On Four Axles And just on the undercarriage, we can find the very first great novelties. Conrad changed the material of outriggers, and the MK 88 has now zinc-made outriggers instead of plastic. This is really great, and the crane can stand excellently stable on the ground compared to its bigger brother MK 100, which this one has still plastic-made outriggers. Conrad also delivers the model with outrigger pads, which will give the model a more-authentic look. While traveling, these pads can be stored safely between the outriggers on each side and do not slip away. Another amazing detail I found on the second view since it is a little hidden. Look towards the ladder located on the left side right above the pad storage. It can be unfolded and would provide safe access to the carrier. Really a nice touch. All tires rotate easily, and the model can travel very smooth on any flat underfoot. All four axles can be steered independently, and therefore, all modes of steering can be shown. Additionally, the turning radius is also very close. But the biggest novelty we can find with the warning lights on the undercarriage cab—both lights are flashing! This addition makes the crane a great model for a working display and provides an authentic look. In between the copies of cooler and fuel tank on the real crane, the 408-horsepower Liebherr engine would be located. The MK 88 model has not an engine here but space to locate three small batteries and a switch within the engine compartment. A small plate covers this, and by using a tweezers, I can start the flashing mechanism. Well done! The Uppercarriage The well-proven level of details we know from Conrad also exists on the uppercarriage. It is covered by silver-colored anti-slipping plates; a small railing is positioned on the right side. An additional counterweight I need to assemble to the back; in reality it has a weight of 2 tons. To read the rest of this story, call (701) 883-5206 or 1-800-533-8293 to order the July TT&C 2011 issue. Other features included in the July 2011 issue: • Gold Star Designs and Details by Steve Butler • Attention! Now Performing...The Human Cannonball • Kiegan Customizes Trucks–Big & small by Dee Goerge • CONEXPO - CON/AGG 2011 International Gathering Place by Richard Schmitter • Rare Model Trucks Soukup’s Toyland and Museum by Fred Hendricks |
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