Truck Models — Daniel Murphy reviews Drake’s 7×8 low loader

Daniel Murphy’s original review examines Drake Collectibles’ 1:50 McAleese low loader, working details and extension options.

Words by Daniel Murphy. Images from the ACT archive; no individual photographer is identified in the retained feature.

This review looks at the 1:50th scale diecast 7×8 steerable by Drake Collectibles in McAleese colours.

With this model there is an option of an extension kit which includes a 3×8, 2×8 clip assembly and a drop in deck extension, which can extend your trailer from a 7×8 to a 10×8 or a massive 12×8 with or without the additional drop in deck section to help transport those extra-long and unique loads.

At first look at the orange Drake branded box it is clear that it is of high quality and sturdiness.

Once opening the box, it is easy to see the foam padding is made well to protect the model inside.

After removing the Drake ribbon and top layer of foam it shows a neatly packed goose neck, 7×8 line, ramps and 2×8 dolly.

Once pulling these pieces out of the box and placing them down for closer inspection, it is very easy to see the high degree of detail added to make this model more realistic.

This includes air and hydraulic lines throughout the separate parts of this model which all join together very nicely with nuts and bolts, though we need to note no tool was provided for getting to the tight spaces.

A hydraulic generator has also been modelled, with a detailed hood that opens.

The kingpin plate on the goose neck can be set in one of three positions by using pins provided and the kingpin can pivot left and right to allow for a more interesting pose.

All of the wheel axles have working suspension, with a significant range of steering movement in most of them, and at the rear the ramps can be lowered.

Overall this model is a very detailed and expensive model, but it is a very large high quality model that is sure to take any heavy load.

This model gets a 4.5 out of 5 star rating.

Rear Vision: where are they now?

Have you built a similar heavy-haul model or have an update on your collection? Tell ACT what happened next. We will verify current updates before adding them to the archive.