“Models & Mods” is back to spotlight the modifications done to our models at home by collectors. This month we had the opportunity to speak with Graham May from Colorado about his incredible 1:48 scale Cat®631G Wheel-Tractor Scraper!
1. Did you start with an existing model or build from scratch? If an existing model, which one?
The model is a combination of two CCM models, the brass 637G push/pull and the diecast 631K.
2. Why did you choose this model to modify?
I see a lot of this model scraper in my area, I didn’t think anyone was going to be making it, so I put two and two together to make four.
3. Can you walk us through the process of building these modified components? Material used, tooling required, any challenges you had, etc.?
I made a huge leap, after looking for a long time and not really finding any wrecked 637G models, I sourced the most reasonable priced unit I could find. I had the 631K in hand already. Just needed to separate and re-connect them. I ended up with two pretty cool lowboy loads, even though these are transported in one piece around here. The biggest challenge is the bowl hydraulics, they do not function as they are too small to operate in the 637G’s cylinders. I am also needing a decal for the bowl arms, just looking for the right artist to get this done.
4. How long did this project take you?
This was a pretty quick build just taking apart two models and building a new front bumper from polystyrene.
5. Do you have any advice for other collectors looking to modify a model?
My best advice is to start with simple conversions, bucket swaps etc. until your confidence is up. Tearing apart a $2,000 brass model is not for the beginner, or faint of heart!
6. What project do you have in mind next (or are currently working on)?
I have many projects on the table, CCM wise Another D9H dozer with push blade and block or ripper, other projects include a pair of 70’s style top hammer air tracks and compressors, and a pair of D25 Cat trucks build up from resin cast kits, one dump and one water truck. There never seems to be enough time to build all that I would like to and my eyes are bigger than my time allotment for the hobby this creates a large backlog of things to build.
7. Any suggestions for Classic Construction Models on which model to make next?
CCM lets please revisit the 1:48th scale, my favorite, a large cat hoe, (5130B, 385B), I’m a scraper guy, (631D 637D), perhaps a re-visit to the haul trucks, (773B/D model, 769C/D), and for dozers there is definitely one that comes to mind (D10N). All of these would be relatively affordable and not quite completed properly.
Many thanks to Graham May for sharing off his amazing work. We must say that we are extremely impressed with his 631G conversion! We also appreciate you showing off a few other CCM modifications you have done, the Cat®D9H’s and D8K are spectacular, we look forward to seeing more great work from you in the future!
Want to be the next collector featured in a Classic Construction Models blog? Send us pictures of your collection, or modifications done to one of our models, to us via email sales@ccmodels.com and you might be the next collector selected for an upcoming feature!
The models are precise and the detailing is perfect – having been a CAT rep for 13 years, I’m amazed at this fine work, a true work of art without and doubts.
I’d very much love to have a Caterpillar D6C dozer! I’d be glad to send a photo
Im still interested in a Unit Shovel 614
Super Weiter so Danke. Mein Wunsche ein Cat 977H oder Cat 977k.Mit oder ohne Kabine.Danke
Great job mate Graham Maye, well finished scraper,
I know a lot of people who collect the 1/48 ccm scale, we still wonder if ccm will surprise us this year with a model of this scale, it would be great to continue expanding our collection.
great, very well done
I have been looking to acquire 3 scrapps 631G for a long time and I know people in France who would like them but they are only made by hand…
Do you plan to produce one one day?
A model scraper, yes, would be a fine one to have made, but like Robert Finch above writes, I’d be more acceptable to a detailed CAT D6 dozer, complete w/hydraulic dozer blade, rear winch and operator’s protective metal canopy. perhaps even a model of the CAL FIRE forest dozers.
I am still very interested in a Unit 614 Shovel if one ever comes up avilable.