Bruder 03190: Case IH Optum 300 CVX Tractor, 1:16 Scale

Its a standalone Bruder tractor but with the option to add a front loader with the connecting part tucked away behind the wheels for later. This Bruder Case IH Optum CVX series tractor is a newish release from 2017, so all current features and functionality are present. One of 4 Case models available, with this model the only one without a loader or trailer in tow.

Case IH Optum 300 CVX Tractor

Large size Bruder IH CVX series tractor that as all that is good with Case tractors all over it, and that extends to the replica exterior detail to the shape of the body, cab and bonnet.

Verifying its a Case IH tractor is the manufacturers insignia along the bonnet, with the red backing and black trim on the lower half, around the cab and on the front of the bonnet.

Not much colour or detailed interior, but the cab detail is replicated all the same. Making up the exterior decor are hazard lights, wing mirrors and exhaust pipe.

Imitation lights have a silver, reflective effect with the headlights incased in clear plastic to bring more realism to the lights.

Height-Adjustable Hitch

When we talk about an height-adjustable rear coupling system it can sound intimidating, but don't be afraid, its just a hook for the loop of the tow bar on the farm implement and trailer to hook on to.

Well the rear tow hitch is made in a solid plastic black, the grey screw fitted with the hitch will in fact lower and raise the hitch to the height that matches the corresponding implement they need to tow.

To low and the trailer slips off, well to high and the trailer is harder to tow, especially when a full load of rocks or sand is being hauled.

Compatible with all implements in the series, why not match the Bruder Case IH tractor with a matching red implement.

Open Cab Door

Steps lead to the reserve opening cab doors just as they do on the real Optum 300 CVT, so now access can be granted for the Bruder figure to get inside and drive the tractor.

And as there's steps leading up to the cab doors on both sides, this can only mean we have two opening hinged doors.

It would be awkward without a door handle to grab onto to pull open the doors, so Bruder have made life easy by making sure there are big, solid handles to reach.

Remember access through the doors will offer them a way to not only insert a figure, but allow them to steer the steering wheel by use of there fingers, or a way to assist them when they attempt at using the steering rod as it reaches in to connect with the steering wheel.

Unique Counter-Weight

Not functional but fun all the same, this imitation - but hollow - counter-weight acts as a sort of balancing device if they're towing to much weight on the rear tow hitch.

The weight carried on the back is canceled out by equal weight spread to the front to stop the Case IH Optem pulling a wheelie while keeping all four wheels firmly on the ground.

Well that's true for the real life tractor, the Bruder designed Case IH in fact is made to keep all four wheels on the ground at all times, regardless of how much weight you have in tow.

The detachable counter-weight, well occupying the front mount for now, can be slid up with a big tug to remove it, and replace it with a front mounted implement whenever the time is needed.

Steering

Positioned underneath the tractor on its chassis is where the extended steering rod is positioned, which you'll also notice a red nugget that is used later to remove the wheels.

Pull out the steering rod, open up the driver's cab roof and insert the rod through the slide open hatch.

Now fiddle around a little until you reach the centre positioned steering wheel and grasp onto to it. Now with a left and right movement, this will control the front axle as you maneuver in all directions.

We would recommend keeping the steering rod in place to prevent loosing it, though it would need to be removed if you decide to insert a figure on the seat - before inserting it back on again.

SCREW for Turning or Removing

Located near the steering rod tucked away on the chassis is a bright red nugget, this nugget is in fact a screw for removing all four wheels or even assisting in adjusting the height of the rear tow hitch.

In all honesty, the nugget is not really required for the tow hitch as the current design is efficient as it is, but its an important device for those times when the wheels just need to be removed.

They may by farmer or tractor driver at one point, but they can also turn mechanic be removing the wheels for repair work - and this goes well with the opening bonnet to inspect the engine block.

Its worth noting the nugget screw comes in red, orange or yellow.