Photo Review: Trumpeter 35 M1083 FMTV Cargo Truck

[Sharkmouth]

This is a well researched truck which matches the TMs I have on it. I don't know about the fit and the engineering did leave me scratching my head as to why an approach was taken but I do believe the modelers will be happy in the end. The decals are not up to par so I do hope Archer will produce a replacement dash and placard set (but he won't unless someone can provide the references needed).

Regards,

 

[Jeeves]

Looks very interesting...what part of the instructions/assembly are wonky?

 

[Adam Baker]

Great pic's Saul.

I've seriously considered building this truck b/c the company I work for builds parts for the real thing ( part that I helped design a little bit), but at 70 bucks for the kit, its a bit too expensive for my tastes.

Supposedly Trumpeter is also doing the armored version which runs an armored cab instead of the softside like this one, but its been a couple of years since they announced it and AFAIK nothing has ever showed up.

 

[The Zod]

Thanks for the pix Saul. Sure are a lot of parts to that kit.

 

[chukw]

Cool beans! Maybe the odd sequence involves the interchangeable parts for the armored version?

 

[Sharkmouth]

Looks very interesting...what part of the instructions/assembly are wonky?

The instructions are fine. Some parts could have been split along panels or seams but weren't. This causes them to have glue seams that need attention in the visible areas.

Supposedly Trumpeter is also doing the armored version which runs an armored cab instead of the softside like this one, but its been a couple of years since they announced it and AFAIK nothing has ever showed up.

They still are, more than one design has been looked at and I posted an image, in the Latest Acquisitions thread, of what they will eventually release on the M1078 body. As mentioned, an easy swap of the cabin to have an armored three axle truck.

Maybe the odd sequence involves the interchangeable parts for the armored version?

The sprues do jump around a bit to allow for the half dozen trucks in the works.

Compare this to the decal...

Regards,

 

[Sharkmouth]

I've seriously considered building this truck b/c the company I work for builds parts for the real thing ( part that I helped design a little bit), but at 70 bucks for the kit, its a bit too expensive for my tastes.

Adam, if you want to do a build review and can agree to follow my easy rules, I would send the kit to you for the cost of postage.

If the link above doesn't work, here are the rules to follow:
[ol]

[li] Post receipt of product in Latest Acquisitions.[/li]
[li] Start a new thread in the Campaign or forum you wish.[/li]
[li] Post an update each week even if it to say there was no progress.[/li]
[li] Build it as you wish, Out of the Box is NOT mandatory. I do ask that you show the part being modified or replaced before hand which will help explain your choice of modification or replacement.[/li]
[li] Have fun with the build.[/li]
[li] Take nice clear images. Please try to use the Modelers' Alliance gallery.[/li]
[li] Smash kit if necessary but refer to number 6.[/li]
[li] There is no time limit, refer to number 4.[/li]
[li] Refer to number 5.[/li]
[li] When you reach the end, grab all the pertinent constructive criticism and put it all together so that a cohesive build review may be posted with front page coverage.[/li]
[li] Refer to number 5[/li]
[/ol]

PM me if this interests you.

Regards,

 

[chukw]

This sounds like a job for ADAM!!!! :laugh:

 

[Adam Baker]

Oh boy, haha.

Very tempting offer Saul, pm inbound.

 

[Sharkmouth]

Adam,

I just got the two axle truck with armored cab. Once I swap out the cab for this truck's, I will have the armored three axle M1083 I want and a leftover unarmored two axle M1078. Are you still interested in the latter?

Regards,

 

[Adam Baker]

Sure Saul!

 

[Sharkmouth]

Sure Saul!

OK, I will make it public. The kit will be yours if you cover postage and agree to build it online as outlined here:
https://www.modelersalliance.com/forum/news-reviews-and-shows/122257-photo-review-trumpeter-35-m1083-fmtv-cargo-truck#122331

I will pack it up and send it out as soon as I can after you agree.

Regards and enjoy,

 

[Adam Baker]

I can do that Saul! Just let me know where to send the payment