FineMolds 1/35 scale Japanese Type 94 6-wheeled truck “Canvas Top”
Designed by Isuzu and built in large numbers, the Type 94 gained a reputation for reliability. The vehicle served as the basis for cargo and fuel trucks as well as weapons carriers.
Kit:No. FM31
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Scale:1/35
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Price:$59.95
Pros:
Perfect fits; clear instructions
Cons:
No engine
Comments:
Injection-molded, 126 parts, decals
FineMolds opens up some new ground in 1/35 scale soft-skin vehicles with its release of the Japanese Army Type 94 truck. There are two versions, one with a hardtop cab and the canvas-top reviewed here.
The kit parts are neatly molded in dark yellow plastic with no flash or obvious ejection-pin marks to slow you down. The kit and instructions are straightforward, with no multiple options or special features to modify.
I started construction by building up the frame. Both transmission and exhaust details are added as separate parts.
The suspension builds up with individual leaf-spring parts that are mated to the differential and driveshaft to finish the assembly.
The cab detail is basic, military no-frills (probably like the real thing) but features driving controls, seats, and an instrument panel. The cab doors are molded in a closed position, so there there would be a bit of extra work to display them open. Nicely molded transparent parts complete the cab with a windshield, rear and side-curtain windows, but no windows for the doors. Separate windshield wipers are a nice touch. The single-piece molded cab cover is well formed, with subtle rolls and wrinkles that a dark wash and light dry-brushing would enhance for a realistic-looking soft top. The quality of the molding is enjoyably apparent in the front grille, which is flanked by headlights provided with clear lenses. Side stowage bins below the cab at the end of the running boards invite detailers to add odds and ends from their spares that would give the truck a more lived-in, workmanlike look.
The truck bed is broken down into the lower bed and the upper walls. There are a fair number of parts here; I spent about one-third of the build time on the bed.
The wheels are provided in hard plastic and are made up of tires and inner wheels.
Markings are given for three vehicles. The decals are simple white banners with hinomarus and went on without a problem.
I completed my Type 94 truck in a quick and easy 10 hours, and the completed models looks pretty neat. The kit has no real faults and can be easily built into a nice-looking replica, even by a modeler with intermediate skills. If you are into World War II trucks and looking for something unusual, this is a great model for you!