Review
Gecko Models has continued their interest in the Vietnam War and has now provided 2 of the typical vehicles that were seen in various set up’s I believe even to this day. This release from Gecko Models is well protected in a flip top cardboard tray, with an additional card lid. Inside the sprues are packaged inside a number of plastic bags. Looking over the contents I have observed nothing that causes me any concerns as regards the moulding quality, with good clean mouldings and of course the cautionary tale to take care when removing the finer mouldings from the sprues for use.
The 3 wheeled vehicles are identical, and I believe, are the same as the single piece offering originally released a while ago by Gecko Models. You have been provided with parts to replicate the engine and also the battery and so with some forward thinking and a suitable figure could show one of the vehicles in the process of receiving some TLC - It would only require that you add some cables to replicate the wiring. The cab interior and passenger area of the vehicles are well replicated and I particularly like the effort put into the chassis and rear drive axle, which could be modified by the modeller to show one or both of the vehicles being used for completely different purposes, if the modeller does not add the passenger portion of the tricycles. Gecko Models does suggest using stretched sprues for some cabling detail, but I would recommend the use of wire as the shapes will hold better in that material and removes the risk of breakage. The passenger compartment of the vehicle provides a roof rack, plus roll down side curtains secured with photo etched straps. Seating inside is the basic bench seat, so no issues or concerns here.
The figure supplied in this release is shown sitting on the step on the driver’s cab reading a book. Clothing is as you would expect consisting of a light weight shirt, and trousers. The typical sandals seen worn in Vietnam during this period, and he is also wearing a baseball cap which may be a nod to the influences of the American troops seen in country and off duty during this period. Also provided in the set, are what I believe to be rice sacks, a potato sack or similar and a spare wheel. Other items could be added as desired by the modeller.
Gecko Models have provided 2 finishing options for this release, which are generic with no details provided.
Conclusion
It is quite interesting to see Gecko Models provide 2 of these motor tricycles so quickly after the original release. But in my opinion this release in addition to its general appeal will also appeal to those modeller who like to alter releases to represent completely different uses. With 2 kits being included, basically you get double the fun, Gecko Model as usual has an eye for detail and so they are not a kit bashing model and a modicum of skills are required of the modeller to get the most from them. Perhaps the most important being to take great care during removal of parts to avoid breakages. It is also worth mentioning that these represent great value for money.