Lindberg American LaFrance 900 series Pumper
1/32 Scale Kit # 72197
(Original Kit # 646M)
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Overview
The American LaFrance 900 series was introduced to the American fire
service in late 1958 as a replacement for the ill-starred 800 series.
It featured a new wider cab, heavier frame and many refinements to enhance
both ease of use and durability. The 900 series cab carried the flag for
American LaFrance until the release of the Century series. The 1000 series
which came between these two was simply an update of the 900 with the
most popular options becoming standard equipment.
The Kit
The current release of this kit is the first time it has seen the light
of day in almost 45 years. It is a build it yourself toy, as the original
came with Lindberg’s large electric motor kit. For this review I
actually built the original issue kit that has been part of my loft insulation
for I don’t know how long.
Accuracy
For what it is, this kit is fantastically accurate. The engineering
compromises for ease of molding do not seriously affect the overall accuracy.
However, there is one major caveat: it is not 1/32nd scale as advertised
on the box. It is scaled to 5/16 inch to the foot or roughly 1/38th scale.
This does not detract from the appearance of the model, as it is perfectly
proportioned. In some ways the engraving is overly accurate-it is so fine
the panel lines and door openings disappeared under a light coat of paint.
Some careful work with Metal foil marginally restored the presence of
these items.
Differences between the Original issue and the Current release
There are three noticeable differences from the original. First off
the electric motor kit is gone. Second, there are four vinyl tires included
now that just look wrong on this model. Third and most welcome, in the
new release, the grab rails and other trim items are chrome plated. The
original issue was molded completely in red. The original kit provided
decals for Skokie, Illinois, which was Lindberg’s location at the
time. The decals in the new release are for San Diego.
Chassis, Engine & Transmission
No chassis, engine or transmission are included, the axles are held
in place by the wheel wells. This is the ultimate in curb side; the only
items under the body are spaces reserved for the electric motor and batteries.
This does not impact the appearance or accuracy. The wheel and tire assemblies
are simplified and provide only a single rear tire. Single rear tires
were available as a special production option, but greatly reduced the
load carrying ability of the apparatus.
Interior
The interior is very basic and perfectly adequate. Since this is an
open semi-cab pumper, the cab interior is on full view. Some quick paint
detailing and it does the job nicely. The cab interior should be painted
the same as the main body. Seats are semi-gloss black, with an aluminum
floor.
Body
Six parts comprise the cab, pump compartment and fire body. The sides
are one piece from the door hinge line back to the beavertail.
Conclusion
For the age of this tool, it is a very accurate model and a very easy
build. The mold has held up exceptionally well for the time it was in
storage. This is an excellent model for a beginner or a well seasoned
craftsperson looking for something different and easy to complete as a
stress reliever. I have only three complaints with the new issue. The
first is the inaccurate labeling of the kit as 1/32nd scale (minor) and
second, the vinyl tires which are undersize and managed to completely
destroy the decal sheet, and lastly the American LaFrance name plates
on the decal sheet should be silver. The name plates were gold on the
original issue’s sheet also, so that is probably where that discrepancy
came from. Overall a wonderful little model that only took about 8 hours
to complete. Just for fun, I parked it beside the Aurora 900 series which
is 1/32nd scale.
Color Guide
Testor’s Auto Lacquer Italian Red for the body and individual
components. Tamiya NATO black was used for the tires.
The current release version was purchased at Skyway
Model Shop
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