Getting Real Column - 4
6: The trailer axle mount and brake detail.
6
Final details to add were the fenders, from .020" styrene, and the
folding steps up the side, made from individual chain links with
a small styrene strip below. The side trim strip and Mechanical
Handling Systems medallion were laser-cut in .020" styrene.
The wheels, rear axle, mud flaps, and landing gear are com-
mercial parts. The parts were assembled with MEK cement.
The original photos are all black-and-white, but I came up with
a convincing 1950s, off-white and tan, two-tone paint scheme
by looking through a number of books on trucks from that era.
The tire ramps are painted aluminum.
I created the decals and printed them on my ALPs printer. The
tractor is a repainted, re-lettered Mini-Metals vehicle.
The final result is a convincing reproduction of this distinctive
vehicle
.
7
7: Here is detail of the ratchet system that is used to
tie down the autos during transport.
MRH-Feb 2014
