This forum is for collectors of emergency vehicle models to discuss any aspect of the industry. Feel free to post comments on current releases, future models, items for sale/trade, or items wanted.
A tractor-trailer fire tanker model is long overdue, and the basic vehicle is certainly a nice model, but this one could use some more impressive markings (I assume the ones on the model are generic, so they could have been a lot more creative), chrome instead of black on several parts, a different color than that sickly-looking green (like red, for instance), and a lightbar in addition to the printed-on strobes. There are enough photos available of real tankers that Jaydeez could have come up with a much better use of a rather expensive casting.
It's green alright but not worth it when it comes to a fire tanker. It's generic in all senses of the word. The AF tankers I remember had a rather large cabinet at the rear of the tank that housed the engine and foam making unit with the spreader bar at the bottom. The tank should be shorter also. It just doesn't make it.
I viewed the site but did not see a price. I may purchase the model, but will remove the decals (stickers) for the emergency lights, and add clear colored lenses. Some diamond plate would also help make the stock model look better.
That said, Boeing ran several versions of IH cabs on Lime Green semi-tankers at their test facilities. Any would make a fine model. I for one am glad to see another maker in the 1/64th scale fire model business. This is only their first issue, and Jaydeez customers are used to customizing their purchases. I'd expect future releases to be much better.
I must say, I haven't made the first airport connection with the piece. It looks like a perfect replica of a modern rural tractor-drawn tanker, less any cab-top or trailer-top beacons or light bars.
I found the cost, near $55. Not bad, as cabs run around $25 to $35, and a tanker costs another $40 plus. The extras added to the model actually make this a very good deal for a different subject. I'm definately ordering one.
Thanks for posting the link LDS Mike, and may the Prophets (or in ZCMI lingo, the "Profits"), look kindly on you.