MPC's Datsun Truck As A Beater

[oldcarfan]

I came across this kit from my stash on Monday, and decided to jump in as the Datsun 620 was always my favorite truck. I bought it at a hobby show years ago, knowing it was missing a few parts and about that time Round 2 reissued the kit, which is usually my luck. I ended up buying three more when Hobby Lobby clearanced them. Anyway I dug it out on Monday and started building. For those not familiar, this is from MPC's malaise era so the parts fit isn't that great. It helps to treat these kits like you would one of those old resin kits that guys used to cast in their garages. There aren't many alignment tabs, and flash is always an issue, but if you just keep at it, they turn out okay. I've been teaching myself how to weather and this is my third effort. The engine didn't fit right so I closed the hood and forgot about it. The suspension is lowered a scale 3 inches, the wheels are from the kit, I don't know why they molded the hubcaps to the wheels. The tires are Continentals from an old Porsche kit and are old-school cool. The paint is Navy Haze Gray, and the decals are a combination of homemade and parts box. After looking at it, I built a headache rack and a bed toolbox for a little more interest. The inflatable is from the AMT Toyota truck snap kit. 

I always like to have a backstory for my builds and in this one, the truck was used at the US Navy base in Yokosuka before being returned to the US and auctioned off. A couple of guys needed a cheap parts runner for their shop and won it for $750. They got it running, and now it goes from wrecking yard to auto parts store.

So that's my build. I did manage to get some more done on my Cannonball VW.

[BK9300]

I think you did a terrific job of making this little truck look well worn - great job with the rust staining and faded paint - very nice build!

!

 

[ncbuckeye67]

That's really cool! Nice work on the weathering. I went a little overboard on my first attempt, but that's only made me more determined to try again.

[espo]

Great looking build and finishes. Someone in the Motor Pool is in trouble, looks like the Navy has been parking their equipment to close to the Ocean and not caring for the finish. 

[Spottedlaurel]

Very nicely done! The accessories and weathering really bring it to life.

[ChrisR]

Nice!

[PappyD340]

Great looking build!

[Street Rod]

Really neat little truck! The weathering looks very realistic.