model critique

Second look: There's been a great deal of discussion on the 87scalecars e-mail list regarding the accuracy of this truck tractor model. The general consensus is that the proportions are off just enough to bother most of the participants. Opinions vary but in general the cab is considered too short (height) and not long enough (firewall to rear cab wall). The hood slope is not quite right either and perhaps too long. The interesting thing is that Model Power makes a similar model in 1/24 scale and the proportions are near perfect! Oh well, maybe next time!!!

Original text: This is a scan (not a photo) of the actual model of the Kenworth T600B by Model Power. This assembled plastic model has extremely crisp molding on the cab unit. The tractor chassis has less detail than the latest Herpa models but the cab is much better rendered than the Herpa T600A. The Model Power version has the one-piece, wraparound windshield characteristic of the T600B, paint matching front bumper fairing, grille housing integral with the hood, aero sleeper with fairings, cab "moon roof" (clear rooftop window) and nicely rendered fuel tank fairings. Outside mirrors are the remote control type with aerodynamic housings. The wheels are ten hole aluminum type with "chrome" plating; the tires are "rubber" with an non-prototypical tread for highway use. Typical replacement tires will NOT fit these wheels. If you want to change the tires you'll also have to change the wheels.

The trailer is a smooth side van that scales out to 40'6". With the tires supplied the trailer scales out to 14' high (should probably be 13'6" maximum) and width scales out to 9' (six inches too much); this trailer appears to be 6" too much in every direction. This trailer would appear to resemble an FRP side trailer. The front of the upper rivet rail is cast with something that looks very much like the Great Dane nameplate but is only an odd bump of plastic on this trailer.  The rear door is a reasonable replica of a rollup door but this model features it as "operable". That means it swings up in one piece like an old garage door; however, this does allow you to position the door open with minimal trouble. All in all, a very good model; this tractor is one I have personally wanted a very long time and was very disappointed that Herpa did not do this version instead of the early T600A they did do. I am very happy with this model and hope Model Power offers another cab soon (think we can convince them we NEED a Freightliner FLD120?).

Bob Johnson