Review

With the release of a Mk II universal carrier in 1/16th scale, and the announcement of a Mk I that is following. Gecko Models has released separately the engine for this vehicle which can be used in either of the 1/16th scale models. However, having had a look at the Mk II of this release you need to be aware that if you do install this engine it will not be seen again, as the model is not tooled for displaying the power plant. With that in mind, Gecko Models has provided a display base for the engine with the kit so that you can show it outside of  one of the models it is designed for. The block of the engine is an accurate representation of the real vehicle judging by photographs found on-line.  The cylinder heads that are provided separately, provide accurate bolt and spark plug detail, only requiring the addition of the plug leads for accuracy. The water-cooled aspects of the engine are well detailed throughout, and I have not spotted any obvious errors. The cables from the spark plugs have been depicted in the instructions and so making it easier for the modeller to add them themselves. The coil is also very visible in the release. The wires from the coil pack to their destination is not provided within the instruction booklet and on-line images including diagrams do not clearly show where the lead should be. The in take air side of the system is also well replicated, and I could not spot any issues with it, both in terms of inclusion and representation. It does however, appear that the fuel pump is shown installed back to front in the instructions. This could be due to a museum exhibit, due to the fuel line going from the fuel pump to the carburettor is a straight line if reversed. However, it has to be around the other way to accommodate the actuator rod for the throttle. The throttle linkage has not been provided within the model and so will need to be added via scratch build. Going back to the air system and cooling system a nice replication of the radiator assembly has been included, and that appears to be accurate. The air cleaner provided in the model is a replication for a European set up as the images I have included here appear to show two and I presume that is a North African feature of the engine. A really pleasing addition for display outside of the main model and at a very good price.