Kit: 32548
Scale: 1/48
Maufacturer: Tamiya, available from Tamiya America, 800-826-4922, www.tamiyausa.com
Price: $29.00
Comments: Injection-molded, 114 parts (1 metal chassis), screws, decals
Pros: Good subject; great fit
Cons: No engine; no pedals in cab

General Motors trucks were just as important to the American effort during World War II as the Sherman tank or the P-51 Mustang. Tamiya’s commitment to 1/48 scale rolls on with this new GMC 21/2-ton 6×6 cargo truck.

Reviewing the kit parts, it was obvious from the parts breakdown and assembly sequence that this was a scaled-down version of Tamiya’s 1/35 kit of the truck. The kit incorporates Tamiya’s concept of using a white-metal chassis. Options are somewhat limited – only a driver figure is given, and there’s no engine.

Construction started with the drivetrain. This and the suspension springs, muffler, and bumpers (all plastic parts) were attached to the metal chassis with super glue and the enclosed screws. Be careful when tightening the screws: Too much pressure will twist the drivetrain and cause the axles to go out of alignment.

I breezed through assembling the wheels and cab – although I was surprised there were no foot pedals in the cab!

Next, I assembled the cargo box. The sides and front are a bit finicky to align, so take a dry run before using any glue.

The chassis, cab, and cargo box were all painted as subassemblies.

The cab and cargo box are attached to the chassis with screws. I’d recommend super glue also, as tightening the screws could cause misalignment (as with the drivetrain).

I painted my 6×6 various shades of Hobby Color and Tamiya paint.

Decals are provided for two vehicles. They go on well over a gloss undercoat.

The assembled model looks fine when compared to photos in the book The GMC: A Universal Truck.

I constructed my 21/2-ton 6×6 truck in a very quick seven hours. I must admit I always have a good time building these Tamiya 1/48 scale vehicle kits. I highly recommend it to the dedicated 1/48 scale builder or anyone else who wants to try this scale.

– Jim Zeske