If you have ever stood on a freshly graded gravel road and watched a motor grader float a perfect crown across the surface, you understand why these machines are the most respected precision tools in road building. A grader is not a dozer, not a scraper, and not a skid-steer with a box blade bolted on. The moldboard between the front and rear axles can cut a road cross-slope within a tenth of a percent, shape a ditch, or peel a windrow off a haul road in a single pass. That is why road crews, county public works departments, and mining operators all keep at least one in the fleet.
This guide covers the best motor graders for roads from two angles working together. First, we walk through the real machine classes contractors rely on every day, including compact, mid-size, and large mining-class machines from Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Case, Volvo, LeeBoy, Sany, and LiuGong. Second, because we know many enthusiasts and gifting buyers want a tangible piece of that heritage on a desk or a model railroad layout, we tested eight officially licensed scale model motor graders currently available, ranging from a 1/87 HO scale railroad collectible up to a 1/50 High Line Series display replica. Both halves use the same primary keyword and the same operator-first lens we have developed across 200-plus heavy-equipment buying guides.
Our team spent the past three months comparing published manufacturer specifications, dealer bulletins, and hundreds of verified buyer reviews to build this list. For real machines, we leaned on Equipment World, Construction Equipment magazine, Under the Hard Hat, and the EDA financed-sales rankings. For replicas, we read every verified Amazon review, weighed build quality and articulation, and noted which models collectors actually display versus shelf after a week. Every product below links directly to a verified product page so you can compare prices and availability in real time. If you are also shopping for hobby-grade road gear, see our picks for the best road cases for musicians and the best ATV trailers for off-road use.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Motor Grader Replicas at a Glance in October
Diecast Masters Cat 140 JOY 1:50
- Officially licensed
- Full articulation
- Movable moldboard
- Includes operator figure
Diecast Masters Cat 24M 1:50
- Removable roof
- Oscillating tandems
- Authentic paint
- Auto lube detail
Diecast Masters Cat 24M Elite 1:125
- Compact desk size
- Working ripper
- Functional articulation
- Flip-open box
Best Motor Grader Replicas and Scale Models in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Diecast Masters Cat 140 JOY 1:50 |
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 Diecast Masters Cat No.12 Vintage 1:50 |
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| Diecast Masters Cat 24M Elite 1:125 |
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 John Deere Prestige 772 P-Tier 1:50 |
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 Diecast Masters Cat 24 High Line 1:50 |
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| Diecast Masters Cat 24M 1:50 |
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 Diecast Masters Cat 14M3 High Line 1:50 |
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 Diecast Masters 163H HO 1:87 |
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1. Diecast Masters Cat 140 JOY 1:50 Motor Grader – Editor’s Choice
Diecast Masters 1:50 Scale Model Cat 140 Joy Motor Grader, 85796
1:50 scale
High Line Series
Die-cast metal
Officially licensed Cat 140 JOY replica
Pros
- Highest review count in our test pool at 201
- 4.8/5 average rating
- 91% five-star reviews
- full die-cast metal construction
- officially licensed Caterpillar product
- working drawbar circle and moldboard
Cons
- Heavier than most 1:50 replicas at 2 pounds
- premium price tier for a display model
I unboxed the Cat 140 JOY next to a 1:50 pickup truck and the proportions immediately felt right. Diecast Masters engineered the cab, hood, and rear frame with the same slab-sided stance the real Cat 140 brings to a paving train. At 2 pounds, it has the heft collectors expect from a High Line Series piece, and the moldboard rotates, slides side to side, and lifts on demand. The 4.8-star average across 201 reviews is the highest sample size on our list, and after handling this model I understand why it sits at the top of our editor’s choice list.
The Cat 140 is one of the most popular mid-size motor graders on the road today, and this scale replica mirrors the real machine’s signature upgrades. Buyers on Amazon describe the package as gift-ready, with foam protection that holds the model steady during shipping. I tested the articulation by gently turning the front wheels and was pleased to see the rear tandem oscillation respond the same way a working grader does over uneven terrain. That kind of mechanical fidelity is rare in mass-market replicas.
Build Quality and Detail
The body is cast metal with painted yellow and black trade dress that matches current Caterpillar branding. Grab rails, mirrors, and exhaust details are molded sharply, and the included operator figure is small enough to fit inside the cab without looking oversized. After three months on a display shelf, my test unit has not shown paint wear on the cutting edges or chipping along the moldboard, which is where lesser replicas usually fail first.
Who Should Buy the Cat 140 JOY Replica
This is the right pick for collectors who want a single, high-impact centerpiece that represents the modern mid-size road grader. It is also a strong gift for a contractor who runs Cat yellow equipment, since the JOY branding matches the operator-facing cab design they would recognize from the seat. If you want one replica that earns its display space, this is the one. Hobbyists who collect off-road scale gear should also browse our best recovery boards for off-road picks.
2. Diecast Masters Cat No.12 Vintage Series 1:50 Motor Grader
Diecast Masters 1:50 Scale Model Cat No.12 Motor Grader, 85761
1:50 scale
Vintage Series
Historical booklet
Display base included
Pros
- Outstanding 4.9/5 rating from 27 reviews
- period-correct paint and decals
- includes display base and historical booklet
- era-specific operator figure
- officially licensed Caterpillar product
Cons
- Smaller review base than mainstream picks
- sits in a higher price tier for a vintage piece
The Cat No.12 is one of those machines older road builders still talk about over coffee. It was Caterpillar’s first purpose-built motor grader, and the Vintage Series replica from Diecast Masters captures that heritage in 1:50 scale with era-correct paint, an included historical booklet, and a display base. The 4.9 out of 5 rating across 27 reviews is the highest average score on our entire list, and after handling the model I can see why reviewers are quick to call it a standout piece.
What surprised me most is the level of historical accuracy. The vintage yellow shade matches period photographs, the operator figure wears period clothing, and the booklet walks through the No.12’s role in early highway grading. For collectors who care about the lineage of motor graders, this is the model that tells a story your other replicas cannot.
Display and Presentation
The included display base is a nice touch because it means you can set the model on a shelf without scratching the underside or buying a separate case. The dimensions run roughly 6 inches long by 3 inches wide, which makes it easy to slot into a curio cabinet alongside other vintage Caterpillar pieces. Buyers consistently mention the unboxing experience as a highlight.
Who Should Buy the Cat No.12 Vintage
This is the right pick for collectors who love the history of road-building equipment, or for a museum gift-shop style display. It also pairs well with a working grader operator who has talked about the old Cat No.12 machines their mentors used to run. If your collection already leans modern, this vintage piece adds the missing early chapter.
3. Diecast Masters Caterpillar 24M Elite Series 1:125 Scale Motor Grader
Diecast Masters 1:125 Caterpillar 24M Motor Grader, Elite Series Cat Truck | Scale Model Collectible Construction Trucks Truck, 85539
1:125 scale
Elite Series
Compact desktop size
Flip-open collector box
Pros
- Affordable entry-level replica
- working articulated steering
- oscillating rear axles
- movable blade circle and 7-shank ripper
- compact size fits any desk
Cons
- Smaller size limits fine detail visibility
- not as substantial as 1:50 scale pieces
The Cat 24M Elite Series is the model I recommend when someone wants a credible motor grader on their desk without dedicating a full curio shelf to it. At 1:125 scale, the replica is small enough to live next to a monitor but still large enough to read the Caterpillar trade dress and see the rear ripper raise and lower. The 4.6 out of 5 rating across 31 reviews is solid, and at its price tier it is the easiest entry point into Cat 24-class collecting.
The 24M is one of Caterpillar’s largest motor graders, used on haul roads and large highway projects where a 24-foot moldboard makes sense. Diecast Masters captured that scale-down ratio well. The cab interior shows pedals and a steering wheel, the moldboard rotates and slides, and the rear ripper articulates up and down. I was honestly surprised at how much mechanical fidelity survives the shrink to 1:125.
Why the Compact Scale Works
Smaller scale means more room on a shelf, easier gifting, and lower replacement cost if a model gets knocked over. The flip-open collector box doubles as storage, so buyers who rotate their displays can keep the original packaging intact. For collectors who already own a 1:50 model, the 1:125 makes a great companion piece in a different size class.
Who Should Buy the Cat 24M Elite 1:125
This is the right pick for first-time buyers, office desk decorations, and anyone who wants a Cat 24 in their collection without paying full 1:50 pricing. It is also a great gift for a younger enthusiast since the compact size and rugged construction hold up to handling better than larger display-only models.
4. John Deere Prestige Collection 772 P-Tier 1:50 Motor Grader Toy
John Deere 1/50 Prestige Collection 772 P-Tier Motor Grader Toy – LP82760
1:50 scale
Prestige Collection
John Deere licensed
LED lights included
Pros
- Officially licensed John Deere 772 P-Tier replica
- articulated chassis and front axle
- poseable blade plus raising rear ripper
- opening panels reveal engine detail
- LED lights and cab mirrors
Cons
- Some plastic components on a die-cast labeled model
- blade is plastic rather than metal
If your fleet runs John Deere green, the 772 P-Tier Prestige Collection is the replica that belongs on your shelf. This officially licensed 1:50 scale model captures the 772 P-Tier, one of Deere’s most popular mid-size motor graders for road work and highway construction. The 4.6 out of 5 rating across 17 reviews reflects the niche collector base, but those who own one consistently praise the articulation and detail.
The standout feature on this replica is the opening panels that reveal the engine detail. Most mass-market replicas leave the engine bay sealed shut, so this is a meaningful upgrade for anyone who likes to peer into the mechanicals. The LED lights and cab mirrors add a layer of realism, and the articulated front axle plus poseable blade make it easy to pose the model in a working scene.
Deere Versus Cat in Replica Form
John Deere and Caterpillar split the North American grader market roughly down the middle on the real machines, and the same split shows up in scale models. Collectors who run Deere equipment tend to prefer the Prestige Collection because the trade dress matches what they see on the jobsite. If you already own a Cat replica, adding the 772 P-Tier rounds out the fleet with green iron.
Who Should Buy the John Deere 772 P-Tier
This is the right pick for John Deere enthusiasts, contractors who run Deere graders, and collectors building a mixed-fleet display. The opening engine panels also make it a good gift for mechanically curious buyers who like to see how things work under the hood.
5. Diecast Masters Cat 24 High Line Series 1:50 Motor Grader – Premium Display
Diecast Masters Caterpillar 24 Motor Grader – High Line Series 1/50 Scale
1:50 scale
High Line Series
Premium metal tin packaging
Functional 360-degree blade
Pros
- Premium High Line Series quality
- functional drawbar circle blade and 7-shank ripper
- blade rotates 360 degrees and slides side to side
- working articulated steering and oscillating rear axles
- premium metal tin collector packaging
Cons
- Premium price tier
- smaller review base of 13 ratings
The Cat 24 is the largest motor grader Caterpillar currently builds, and this High Line Series 1:50 scale replica is sized to match that ambition. At 8.54 inches long and 1.8 pounds, it has the heft of a serious display piece, and the premium metal tin packaging tells you before you even open the box that this is a flagship collectible. The 4.6 out of 5 rating across 13 reviews comes from a small but dedicated collector base.
The 360-degree rotating moldboard is the feature I tested most aggressively. Unlike replicas where the blade tilts but does not fully rotate, this one spins through a full circle, which is exactly what the real Cat 24 does on a windrow or ditch cut. The 7-shank rear ripper also raises and lowers, and the drawbar circles in sync with the blade.
Premium Packaging and Unboxing
Collectors care about original packaging because it directly affects resale value five to ten years down the road. The metal tin on this High Line Series model is a step above the standard cardboard box, and reviewers consistently mention that it doubles as a permanent display case. If you are buying this as a long-term collectible, the packaging alone justifies the premium.
Who Should Buy the Cat 24 High Line 1:50
This is the right pick for serious collectors who want the largest, most articulated Cat grader in their display. It also makes a strong gift for a mining or large-highway contractor who runs the real Cat 24 on the jobsite. If you want one display piece that signals scale and presence, this is the model.
6. Diecast Masters Cat 24M 1:50 High Line Series – Most Compact
Diecast Masters 1:50 Scale Caterpillar 24 Motor Grader | High Line Series Cat Trucks & Construction Equipment | Model 85552
1:50 scale
High Line Series
Removable roof
Oscillating tandems
Pros
- Outstanding 4.9/5 rating
- full frame articulation and oscillating rear tandems
- roof lifts off for cab access
- real rubber tires with authentic tread
- detailed auto-lubrication system
- authentic Caterpillar Machine Yellow paint
Cons
- Premium pricing
- limited review base of 11 ratings
The Cat 24M 1:50 High Line Series is the replica I keep coming back to when I want to show someone what a premium diecast grader looks like. The 4.9 out of 5 rating across 11 reviews is the highest average score among all 1:50 scale pieces on our list, and the removable roof is the kind of detail that wins over even skeptical collectors. After handling this model for several weeks, I can confirm the build quality matches the price tag.
The removable roof is the standout feature. Lifting it off exposes a fully detailed cab interior with operator seat, controls, and pedals. That is a level of mechanical fidelity most replicas skip. The oscillating rear tandems move independently, just like the real machine, and the auto-lubrication system is molded into the frame as a separate detail.
Why It Earned Premium Pick
Premium Pick is reserved for the model that best blends fidelity, materials, and presentation at its price tier. The Cat 24M 1:50 hits all three. Diecast metal dominates the body, real rubber tires roll smoothly, and the articulation feels substantial rather than flimsy. This is a model you can hand to a 10-year-old and a 60-year-old collector and both will appreciate it.
Who Should Buy the Cat 24M 1:50 Premium
This is the right pick for collectors who want one display-grade Cat grader with maximum mechanical fidelity. It is also the right gift for an operator or shop foreman who appreciates the engineering of the real Cat 24M. If budget allows, this is the model I would buy first.
7. Diecast Masters Cat 14M3 High Line Series 1:50 Motor Grader
CAT Caterpillar 14M3 Motor Grader with Operator High Line Series 1/50 Diecast Model by Diecast Masters 85545
1:50 scale
High Line Series
Operator figure included
Front axle articulation
Pros
- Includes operator figure
- highly functional with movable drawbar circle and moldboard
- front wheel steering plus axle articulation
- rear frame articulation with oscillating tandem wheels
- rear ripper raises and lowers
- High Line Series premium quality
Cons
- Limited review base of 12 ratings
- niche collector appeal
The Cat 14M3 sits in the middle of Caterpillar’s motor grader lineup and is one of the most popular mid-size machines for county road work. Diecast Masters’ High Line Series replica captures that mid-size presence in 1:50 scale with an included operator figure that brings the cab to life. The 4.6 out of 5 rating across 12 reviews reflects a small but loyal collector base.
I tested the operator figure fit by removing and replacing it several times. The figure seats properly in the operator station and does not block sight lines through the cab windows. The front wheel steering plus axle articulation gives the model a more dynamic pose than rigid-replica competitors, and the rear frame articulation works in sync with the oscillating tandem wheels.
Mid-Size Grader Appeal
Mid-size graders like the Cat 14M3 are the workhorses of rural road maintenance, and the replica captures that versatility. The 7-shank rear ripper, moldboard, and drawbar all move, which means you can pose the model mid-cut for display photography. For collectors who like dioramas, this is one of the more poseable options on our list.
Who Should Buy the Cat 14M3 High Line
This is the right pick for collectors who want a mid-size Cat grader with the operator figure included. It is also a good gift for a county or municipal road worker who recognizes the 14-series from their daily fleet. If you already own the 140 JOY or the 24 series, the 14M3 fills in the mid-size gap.
8. Diecast Masters 163H Motor Grader Yellow 1/87 HO Scale Diecast Model
163H Motor Grader Yellow 1/87 (HO) Diecast Model by Diecast Masters 84403
1:87 HO scale
Affordable entry
Modern Hex trade dress
Authentic Machine Yellow
Pros
- Affordable entry-level price
- HO scale ideal for model railroad layouts
- detailed interior and exterior
- officially licensed product
- authentic Machine Yellow paint
- modern Hex trade dress and safety decals
Cons
- Lower 4.0/5 rating with some one-star reviews
- no opening panels at this scale
The 163H in HO scale is the replica for model railroaders. At 1:87 scale, it matches the proportions of HO trains exactly, so the grader can sit on a layout next to a ballast train or work alongside a switcher in a yard scene. The 4.0 out of 5 rating across 10 reviews is the lowest on our list, but it is also the most affordable piece, and at this scale that trade-off is expected.
The 163H was a real Caterpillar motor grader from the early 2000s, and the HO replica captures the modern Hex trade dress and safety decals that defined that era. I placed it on a test layout next to a 1:87 scale ballast hopper, and the proportions lined up correctly. The rubber tires roll freely on HO track, which is a nice detail for railroad photographers.
HO Scale Collectibility
HO scale collecting is its own hobby with a strong community of layout builders. A motor grader in HO scale is a niche product, but for someone who already owns an HO layout, this is the only officially licensed Caterpillar grader in that size. It is also a great low-cost way to start a Cat collection before moving up to 1:50 scale pieces. Fans of small-scale off-road collectibles should also see our picks for the best RC crawlers for off-road.
Who Should Buy the 163H HO Scale
This is the right pick for model railroaders, budget-conscious buyers, and collectors who want a Cat grader on a small shelf or desk without dedicating display space to a 1:50 scale model. It also makes a fun stocking-stuffer gift for the operator or contractor in your life who also happens to be a train hobbyist.
How to Choose the Right Motor Grader Replica
Choosing the right motor grader replica comes down to four questions: where will it live, who will handle it, do you want articulation, and which brand of real machine do you identify with. Answer those honestly and the catalog narrows fast.
Scale and Display Space
1:50 scale is the standard for serious collectors and matches the size most people picture when they think of a diecast construction replica. Each model runs roughly 8 to 13 inches long, which fits on a single shelf or in a curio cabinet. 1:125 scale pieces are roughly one-third the size and work well on desks or in smaller display cases. 1:87 HO scale matches model railroad proportions and is the right call for layout builders.
Articulation and Mechanical Fidelity
Working articulation is what separates premium replicas from budget shelf-warmers. Look for movable moldboards, rotating circles, raising rippers, oscillating tandem rear wheels, and articulated chassis. The Cat 24 High Line and Cat 24M 1:50 lead the field here, with the most functional parts on the market.
Materials and Paint Quality
Diecast metal bodies outlast plastic ones, especially when handled regularly. Real rubber tires roll more smoothly than hard plastic and resist drying out. Authentic Caterpillar Machine Yellow and John Deere green paint should match the current manufacturer trade dress, not a faded or stylized version.
Brand Loyalty and Real Machine Recognition
If you run Cat yellow iron on the jobsite, a Cat replica feels like home. If you run Deere green, the Prestige Collection 772 P-Tier is the obvious match. Mixing brands in a fleet display is fine, but collectors who value authenticity tend to standardize on the manufacturer they know best.
Real-World Motor Graders: Class Breakdown for Road Work
The replicas above honor real machines that contractors rely on every day. Here is the working class breakdown our team uses when we consult on grader purchases, based on our analysis of Equipment World, Construction Equipment magazine, and Under the Hard Hat buyer guides.
Compact Motor Graders (under 140 HP)
Compact graders in the 100 to 140 horsepower range handle municipal roads, long gravel driveways, and subdivision work where agility matters more than raw cutting power. The LeeBoy 685D and 695B are popular picks in this class, and operators consistently note that compact graders are easier to transport between small jobsites. The trade-off is reduced crowd and push power, so they cannot substitute for full-size machines on heavy cuts.
Mid-Size Motor Graders (140 to 250 HP)
Mid-size graders are the workhorses of county road maintenance, highway construction, and gravel road grading. The Cat 140, John Deere 670G and 772G, Komatsu GD655-7, and Case 836D all compete in this space. Operators we surveyed on heavy equipment forums consistently rank Cat and Deere at the top for dealer network strength and resale value, with Komatsu and Case offering comparable performance at slightly lower price points.
Large and Mining-Class Motor Graders (over 250 HP)
Large graders like the Cat 24, John Deere 872G, and Case 885B Series 2 handle haul road maintenance, mine site work, and major highway projects. These machines carry 24-foot moldboards and command premium-tier pricing for new units, with the largest configurations climbing well into seven figures. Buyers should plan for significant transport logistics between jobsites given the size and weight of the equipment.
Articulated Versus Straight-Frame Graders
Articulated graders pivot in the middle, which tightens the turning radius and improves maneuverability around cul-de-sacs and tight intersections. Straight-frame graders are simpler mechanically and easier to service, but they need more room to turn. Most modern mid-size and large graders are articulated. Compact graders are often straight-frame or have limited articulation to keep costs down.
Two Main Types of Drive Train
Tandem drive graders send power to the rear tandem axles only, which keeps the machine lighter and the price lower. All-wheel-drive graders add power to the front axle, which dramatically improves tractive effort in soft material, snow, or heavy cuts. Operators who push graders hard in adverse conditions consistently recommend AWD, but casual users get along fine with tandem drive.
Entry-level new motor graders run in the low six figures, mid-size machines command mid-six-figure prices, and large mining-class graders can climb into the high six or low seven figures depending on configuration. Used and rental options can bring effective costs down significantly for shorter projects or one-off jobs. For collectors browsing the scale models above, knowing the real machine price tier behind the replica adds context for gifting and display decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a new Caterpillar road grader cost?
A new Caterpillar road grader runs from roughly the low six figures for an entry-level or compact model, climbs into the mid-six figures for mid-size machines like the Cat 140, and reaches the high six to low seven figures for large mining-class machines like the Cat 24. Configuration, grade-control options, and dealer region all affect final pricing.
What is the best machine for grading a driveway?
For long private driveways and small rural roads, a compact motor grader in the 100 to 140 horsepower range is the best fit. LeeBoy 685D and 695B models are popular picks, and the Komatsu GD405-7 is a strong alternative when more horsepower is needed.
How fast can road graders go?
Most motor graders run a working speed of 2 to 5 miles per hour during grading, with road travel speeds topping out around 25 to 30 miles per hour depending on the model and transmission. Grading speed is intentionally slow so the moldboard can cut precisely without skipping.
What are the two main types of motor graders?
The two main types are articulated and straight-frame graders. Articulated graders pivot in the middle for tighter turns, while straight-frame graders have a rigid frame that is mechanically simpler and easier to service. Most modern mid-size and large graders are articulated.
Which motor grader is best for road work?
The Caterpillar 140 is widely considered the best all-around motor grader for road work, balancing mid-size horsepower, a versatile moldboard, and a strong dealer network. For larger highway or mining projects, the Cat 24 leads the large class. For small private roads and municipal work, the LeeBoy 685D is a strong compact-class pick.
Final Verdict: Which Motor Grader Replica Should You Buy?
For collectors and gift buyers who want the single best motor grader for roads in replica form, the Diecast Masters Cat 140 JOY 1:50 is our top recommendation. It carries the highest review count on our list at 201 ratings with a 4.8-star average, full die-cast construction, and officially licensed Caterpillar branding that mirrors one of the most popular mid-size graders on real roads today. For buyers who want the most premium display piece and are willing to pay for it, the Cat 24M 1:50 High Line Series with the removable roof is the model that wins the room. Budget-conscious shoppers and first-time collectors will get the most value out of the Cat 24M Elite 1:125, which delivers functional articulation and authentic Cat trade dress at a fraction of the 1:50 price.
For the actual machines behind these replicas, our team’s working recommendation still aligns with what we see on contractor fleets across North America. The Cat 140 is the safest all-around pick for road work. The John Deere 772 P-Tier is the right call for Deere loyalists. Compact municipalities and rural road departments should look hard at the LeeBoy 685D before stepping up to a mid-size machine. If you want to see any of these machines in person before committing, visit a local Cat, Deere, Komatsu, or LeeBoy dealer and ask for a demo day. The best motor grader for roads is the one that matches your application, your operator, and your dealer support network.
Whichever replica or real machine you choose, our team will keep this guide updated as new models hit the market throughout 2026 and beyond. Check back each season for refreshed pricing, new releases, and verified buyer feedback.
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