Cross Country Hauler Peterbilt
Komentáre
Martin OostromLove the blue. You really can close to your inspiration. And if the pictures are dated right, a quick build too!
Another gem.
Tim A autorThanks Martin! Yes, a very quick build, I got the test shot started on Friday evening and had it mostly finished on Monday.
Album info
This AMT Peterbilt 359 is a test-shot of the reissue (should be out around Christmas?) kit. I finished this a couple of weeks ago. This kit was developed in 1975 for a '76 release and represents approximately a 1973-77 Peterbilt 359-119 (standard length hood) with a 36" sleeper box. A Cummins in-line 6 diesel engine, Peterbilt's AirTrac air ride suspension, deep taper bumper and Kysor low-profile air conditioner. This kit is the successor to the 1967-73 "California Hauler" Peterbilt 359. The kit has been reissued multiple times by AMT, Matchbox and the last time Ertl ran it was in 2001. The chassis/cab is the base for the current issue of the AMT Peterbilt wrecker.
I tried to build this box-stock and out of the box. I couldn't do it. I had to "fix" certain things that the stylist/master model maker made back in 1975 as the kit was being developed.
This is a challenging kit. It was not well developed back in the day - folks like to say that "it's the molds being worn out." Nope, comparing the test shot with an original 1976 issue - all of the trouble spots were present from day-one. With that said, this kit requires a lot of time to be spend on removing mold parting seams (some very nasty ones on the cab and hood) and filing flat the mounting surfaces for suspension and crossmembers. Test fitting, adjusting, filing, sanding (repeat) is the format for this build.
One of the things I like to do to this kit is add some Evergreen plastic rectangular rod to the front of the fenders - the fenders have always been about 3 inches too short (in scale). I also move the step at the rear of the fender up on the fender (AMT and Revell both mold this step in the wrong spot - see? I am just being Peterbilt Snobbery Picky), I also move the front axle forward so that it isn't centered in the fender - on a 359 the axle is slightly forward of center.
With this kit as you assemble it, if the part doesn't seem to fit, trim it and make it fit. If it's crooked using the kit tabs and holes, straighten it. This build is not for the faint of heart or as a first-time building a big-rig (I suggest the AMT International Transtar CO4070A as a first time truck kit).
This kit is also useful as a basis for resin conversions or if you wish to update the AMT Pacemaker 352 cabover.
My build is vaguely inspired by a 1976 Peterbilt calendar and poster featuring a red white and blue background and a Class Model in a matching dress, The all light metallic blue 359 matches the scene nicely.
Thanks for looking!
Tim