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In the mid-1990’s First Gear produced a number of well executed diecast models of classic trucks from the 1950’s, and one of their best is the ubiquitous Mack Model B-61. First Gear issued the B-61 in several configurations such as two-axle tractor with single-axle van trailer, moving van, fire engine, three-axle heavy tow truck, and two-axle and three-axle dump trucks. Each variant was in turn available in a huge variety of colors and logos, some representing historical companies and truck lines and some as non-historically accurate souvenir or promotional items. The Mack B-Series was produced from 1953 to 1966 and was an especially distinctive truck, featuring a small rounded cab, huge pontoon fenders, and exterior air cleaner. The B-Series was almost universally powered by the Mack-produced Thermodyne diesel engine, as a 672 cu in inline 6 or 864 cu in V8, mated to a 15-speed or 18-speed two-unit transmission (main and auxiliary). The Thermodyne produced its power in a narrow range of 1500 to 2100 RPM, so operating these trucks required continuous shifting. Having two sticks made shifting an art, using the left arm looped through the steering wheel for one and the right arm for the other. The design of these trucks pre-dates the Interstate Highways, so these trucks were made for low-speed operation such as construction rather than high-speed highway operation. The First Gear model captures the look of these trucks very well, including a tiny bulldog mascot on the radiator and large West Coast-style mirrors. The thermal shutters in the grille are well highlighted, helping to capture the look. First Gear unfortunately issued some of the numerous Mack B-61 tractor-trailer models with colors and logos for moving van companies, but used the same highway van trailer as with the freight trucks. Moving van trucks almost always have drop frame trailers so that the loading height is minimum and the cubic volume is maximum; a normal highway trailer has a high loading height requiring loading docks, and lacks curbside doors. The First Gear 1960 Mack B-61 straight truck moving van is a more realistic representation of a moving van, and is available in the same or more van lines as the tractor and trailer. The Mack B-61 tractor and trailer model is more faithful historically and widely available in the markings for "fallen flag" freight lines. Mayflower Van Lines was founded in Indianapolis, Indiana in 1927 by Conrad M. Gentry and Don F. Kenworthy. In 1995 Mayflower was acquired by UniGroup, a holding company for United Van Lines, headquartered in Fenton, Missouri. Mayflower continues to operate as an agent owned co-op to coordinate loads, packing, and third-party services.Read full review
Verified purchase: No
My elderly friend drove a truck like this cross country for many years. He was so pleased when my husband and I gave it to him. So lifelike that many stories ensued after receiving it.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned