Modern US Navy Tow Tractor in 1/32...

With the constant release of 1/32 scale aircraft it is a matter of time before another modern US Navy aircraft is released, when this happens this simple model will make a quality accessory enabling the modeller to create a simple diorama.

Following my preview of this kit I now have the pleasure in writing this full review. The kit comprises of 11 resin parts the largest being the tractor and the smallest the handbrake. There is a short length of brass rod and two sheets of water slide decals.

The kit is not a complex build and can be built in a short time, if the builder uses the supplied information painting will be completed quickly however the decals will take time, and the I would advise that you take your time when applying the decals some of which are quite small. The casting blocks are minimal with the steering wheel being the most delicate to remove. The main body, wheels, rear tow hook and the replacement dashboard have no casting blocks.

The main body has many integral details with a well represented anti-slip finish on all upper surfaces that is quite prominent on the 1/1 example. The wheels have stub axles and are designed to be butt mounted to the main body so the modeller may wish to add a locating pin to aid the construction of this joint. The instructions do not mention where the wheels are to be affixed, the actual ground clearance should be 5.7mm on the model which equates to the actual ground clearance of 5.7 inches. The moulded dashboard (control panel) should be removed and replaced with the finely moulded replacement. The supplied brass rod has to be fashioned into tie down handles and inserted into holes drilled into the main body. The instructions advise the modeller to use a 0.020(inch) or .05mm drill. The steering wheel requires a 0.045(inch) or 1.15mm hole to be drilled into the front panel.

The paint scheme is simple white main body with a dark grey top surface with various details picked out in colours as shown in the instructions and on the box top. If the modeller feels particularly brave one of the more exotic approved schemes could be attempted. The US Navy allows the carrier maintenance teams to paint the tow tractors to commemorate sporting events, normally NASCAR.

The decals are well printed if a little close together on the sheet, and they can all be read albeit with a jeweller’s loupe. There are a number of spares in case of mistakes but a sharp knife and metal straight edge should avoid any mishaps. Also included on the sheet are the prominent black and white chevrons seen on the bumpers. The second decal sheet is the hi-vis yellow markings these are simple yellow rectangles on corners of the tow tractor, and looking at the pictures of the real thing there is no standard position for these markings.

A nice little kit and it is a straightforward build, an ideal companion to your large scale US Navy aircraft, or a simple weekend build for those of you looking for something a bit different.

Available direct from Special Ops Models, my thanks to Andy Meyers for supplying the review kit.

Price $46.95 + P&P

References available online at Tankograd