Moebius/Model King 1969 Ford F-100 Custom Cab

We already tore into the long-awaited '71 Ranger XLT variant ( check out that one if you haven't already- http://chuckmost.wix.com/madhouse-miniatures#!Moebius-71-Ford-F100-Ranger-XLT/ccly/555500860cf248741732db65 ), so now, let's give the '69 the once-over.

As is typical with the average Moebius and/or Model King release, the box art is pleasing. This rendering, along with the box art model, was done by well-known graphic artist (and modeler) Sean Svendsen. There is a minor mistake on the side panel... the rear step bumper is the only rear bumper included, it is not an option. Rear bumpers were not standard on pickups of this era (especailly base-models such as this), and aftermarket step bumpers were a commonly-seen addition.

Obviously, the cab, rear interior bulkhead, hood, and floor are shared with the '71, but the 6-1/2 foot Styleside bed is unique to this version. The narrow Bump trim, and ribbed rocker trim are engraved to the body... you'll want to carefully file/sand these away for the no-frills, bare bones base model look shown on the box. Of course, you can leave them as-is if you wish to build something a tad fancier.

As you might expect, many of the parts look familiar if you've seen the '71, though there are many unique bits to the '69, being that it represents an older base model with the short bed, while the '71 is a "loaded" long bed variant.

These two spures of chassis parts (along with the sunvisors) are direct carryovers from the '71.

Please not that the front suspension crossmember broke loose and is just laying among the parts shown here- which are unique to the '69. Everything you need to build the Ford "Big Six". The box art calls it a 240, but you can call it a 300 if that makes you feel better- the two engines were essentially the same, aside from displacement. The "Power by Ford" lettering on the valve cover stands proud of the surface a bit much, but at least that means it will not be lost under coats of primer and paint.

As is the norm with Moebius kits, the chrome parts are nicely done. Yes... the hubcaps aren't correct for an F-100- this type of cap fits the 16' wheel used on F-250 models. Personally, I can live with that- I've wanted a set of these style caps for years. Now I have them, and so do you, if that's your thing. The headlight bezels seem a little big compared to 1:1- the only real appearance problem I have with the model. Note that the grille does not come on a sprue- it is a separate part bagged with the two chrome trees.

Clear parts are a direct carryover from the '71. And that's enough of that...

In typical Moebius fashion, the instruction sheet includes a listing of factory paint colors, as well as color photos of various built-up sub assemblies.

The decal sheet has enough plates for six vehicles, as well as markings for a fictional Burkett Ford (a not to Dave "Model King" Burkett), Fast Frank's Speed Shop (Moebius owner Frank Winspur, perhaps?), four different lettering motifs for the tailgate, and decals for the oil filter, hood emblems, cab scripts, and gauge panel. Two pairs of Ford ovals are also provided.

I really like this kit. Many have bellyached (and rightfully so, I suppose) about the inclusion of the wrong hubcaps, but I can look past that- slap them on the long bed version, locate a Dana rear axle, and you're well on your way to pulling off a convicning F-250 (or SRW F-350) replica. And it's about damned time we had the Ford Big Six in scale... it was used in fullsize Ford trucks and vans from 1964 all the way up to 1997, the 1987 and later versions being fuel-injected.

We got into kitbashing this with the '71... of course you could mix and match parts from either kit to make yours stand out. Swap the 360 engine into this, use the '71's optional five-spoke mag wheels, and you'll have a pretty nice late '60's "muscle truck". Or, put the six, dog dish caps, and plain tailgate on the '71 and you'll have a typical no-option Ford pick-em-up.

I'll tell you one thing... I'm looking forward to see what people are going to do with these kits.