 | | The model sits inside its windowed box. |  |  | | The rear wheel arches are plastic. |  | | Opening hood allows access to the engine. |  | | Trailer is uncluttered in terms of detail. |  | | Trailer with the loading ramps down. They don't quite fold down enough. |
| This is a model of a historic tractor and trailer as appeared in the United States probably in the late 1940s. The tractor is an International KB-8 and International has a long history of making trucks, and was founded in 1902. It currently sells in around 90 countries worldwide.
It is in the colours of Northwest Engineering.
Packaging
The model comes in a windowed SpecCast branded box. Inside, the model is contained within clear plastic formers. There were no defects or missing parts on the review model.
There is no information about the real tractor or trailer, and no instructions either but none are necessary for the model as there is no assembly to do.
Detail
The tractor has some detail underneath including the drive train, and there is a plastic exhaust system. The tyres have a tread and the same tyre is mounted on the front and rear axles.
The cab has some simple detailing such as mirrors and air horns. There are some visible chrome hinges on both the hood and the doors and it would have looked better if they could have been in the body colour. The front has a couple of bug-eyed headlamps and a chromed radiator. Inside the cab the detail is pretty good and includes a long-handled gearstick. Behind the cab there are plastic fuel tanks and mudguards.
Turning to the trailer, it has a metal structure with plastic wood-patterned decking. The sides of the trailer have some tying points detailed within the casting but they are non-functional. A single plastic landing leg is at the front and the folding ramps are also plastic.
Features
The tractor unit has a steerable front axle with a moderate range of movement.
Each side of the hood opens piano-style and the engine inside is very nicely detailed. The cab doors also open.
The functionality of the trailer is limited to the folding ramps and their design is such that they do not fold right down to the ground.
Quality
The overall quality level of the model is quite good, with a fair amount of plastic used but it is not distracting from the model. The paintwork and graphics are good.
Price
The model is good value for its relatively low price.
Overall
This is an interesting historic model and although it is not to the highest standards of detailing as many modern truck models it is pleasant enough. It makes a good display partnered with an appropriate plant model.
Footnotes
The model first appeared in December 2009.
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|  | | The tractors curvy old lines. |  | | Underneath view. |  | | Opening door shows good detail. |  | | Underneath view. |  | | It can stand on its leg. |  | | Carrying a Northwest 25-D as a load. |
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