The Diecast Zone · Model Car Club Since 1997
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Topic starter
01/01/2020 11:34 am
(PICS) 1954 Autocar DC100T tractor with our added semi trailer
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This beautifully proportioned and exceptionally well detailed '54 Autocar with integral sleeper was recently released by Fire Replicas in 1/50 scale.
Although the model is gorgeously presented by Fire Replicas as a tractor only in an acrylic display case, my brother and I immediately collaborated on the addition of an appropriate early '50s semi trailer by modifying a Matchbox diecast single axle trailer from a couple of decades ago. We added a tandem axle rear bogey and a detailed '50s style landing gear arrangement, along with completely refinishing the trailer in a similar color scheme as the tractor. This setup of a 28' to 30' tandem axle (set forward slightly) trailer with a single rear axle tractor was the standard east coast arrangement for eastern style 'big-rigs' in the mid '50s. The fairly short trailers facilitated the tight manoeuvring into the mostly urban depots, etc. located in the north-eastern states.
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01/01/2020 11:52 am
Good work! I like the idea of cannibalizing older used stuff into a modern rendition.
Especially when starting with a fine single piece and modifying a plentiful (Matchbox!) piece to enrich the rarer single. Well done, (and I envy your painting abilities.)
01/01/2020 12:06 pm
That is one beautiful rig.
01/01/2020 12:09 pm
Great job of matching the trailer to the tractor! I don't collect trucks, but would love to have this pair on my shelf.
01/01/2020 12:15 pm
Fire Replicas
This is the same company that produced my limited edition 1954 FWD Chicago Fire Department 85' hook & ladder. These models are super detailed and worth every penny of their cost. I recently posted photos of my fire truck, worth taking a second look. I seriously considered this tractor. In late February, they are bringing out a 1947 Mack Chicago Pumper. I'm all in.
Clifford, you and your brother did a beautiful job on that trailer. It definitely belongs with the tractor. Good work.
01/01/2020 12:42 pm
Exceptionally well done!
01/01/2020 12:55 pm
Excellent - thanks for posting.
01/01/2020 1:55 pm
Hi. Where did you find the acrylic case?
I'm searching for a similar sized one. Would you post the dimensions? Thanks.
Topic starter
01/01/2020 3:23 pm
This one is approximately 14" X 3.5" X 3.5" inside dimentions......
Unfortunately, I've had some of these for a long while and the packages are long gone, so I can't be sure of the manufacturer but I believe it may have been Trumpeter.
Typically most hobby shops, including Hobby Lobby in the USA carry a bunch of reasonably priced display cases in a variety of sizes.