Auto Transport Trailer 1:25 Scale Revell Model Kit #85-1509 Review

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150717*
Auto Transport Trailer 1:25 Scale Revell Model Kit #85-1509 Review

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

 An auto transport trailer is a type of semi-trailer designed to efficiently transport passenger vehicles via truck. Commercial-size car arrying trailers are commonly used to ship new cars from the manufacturer to auto dealerships. Open car carrier trailers typically have a double-decker design, with both decks subdivided into a number of loading and storage ramps that can be tilted and lifted independently of one another with hydraulics. Unlike flatbed tow trucks, which often need to transport non-running vehicles, car carrier trailers aren’t equipped with loaders or winches, instead relying on the vehicles to be loaded under their own power. The trailer hydraulics allow the ramps to be aligned on a slope so cars can be driven up and secured to the ramp floor with chains, tie-down ratchets or wheel straps, after which the ramp can be tilted in any direction to optimize stacking. To load vehicles on the top deck of a double-decker commercial trailer, the rear half of the deck can tilt and be lowered hydraulically, forming a drive-up ramp to the upper deck. The top deck is usually loaded first and off-loaded last, since the presence of cars on the lower deck can make it impossible to lower the top deck ramp. Trailer hydraulics are operated using a control box mounted on the trailer itself.

For the Modeler: This review covers Revell Kit #1509 Auto Transport Trailer in 1/25 Scale. This is a direct Re-release (Re-Pop) of the car transporter and has been seen in many different box arts over the years. The build is a Skill Level 3 for advanced builders. The kit consists of 160 parts molded in Gray with Vinyl tires and tubing and scale sized metal chain. The instructions are well laid out and have a cutting diagram for the tubing. Decals are given for the hazard stripes, a generic shipping company and a few “New Car” window decals. Much of the assembly is painted one color for the frame and ramps and a second color for the chassis. Most transport companies would have matching tractors painted the same colors as their trailers. Completed dimensions are: Length: 23-5/8″, Width: 6-7/8″, Height: 5-1/8″.

Covered in this Review: If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; removing the copyright script; removing flash and sprue tabs; frame assembly; ramp and fender assembly; critical note regarding the fender braces; realistic detailing for the trailer lights; upper ramp assembly sequence; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; functional considerations; tire alignment; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; detailing the landing gear; making realistic tires; tie-down chain assembly and detailing; chassis detailing and installation; scratch building mounting pins for the hydraulic hoses; hydraulic hose differentiation; where NOT to use glue for functional parts; how to detail paint the accessory tools; decal handling, preparation and application; using “setting” solutions to enhance the decals; are all fully examined in this 18 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

100% money back guarantee!

Click the Buy Now link below to purchase the full Step-by-Step review for $4.95 USD.

Important – You MUST click on the “Return to Right on Replicas, LLC” link after you’ve made your purchase to download your review!

Right On Replicas, LLC ©2015 All rights reserved. *All registered trademarks are the property of their respective brands. Follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations for any product mentioned here.