For those not already aware, Clare Gilbert of Sylvan Scale Models is working on a 1/87th scale resin kit of an American LaFrance 700 series pumper. He will likely release it at the West Springfield, Mass., Train Show January 26th and 27th. First issue will be closed cab, but it should be followed shortly by an open cab version. You will have a choice in the kit of building an early '47-'48 model with the original-design bumper, or the later '48-'57 vehicle, and there will be a pack of various parts, tools, lights, etc., to customize your apparatus. Clare is also seriously considering a straight-frame, mid-ship aerial with photo-etch ladder for later release. The pumpers should be available early in he New Year at your hobby dealer carrying the Sylvan kit line. I have been helping Clare as a "consultant" on this project, and I believe he has come the closest of anybody yet in getting the LaFrance cab contours right!

Location: Owen Sound, Ontario Canada