More options :

"P-47 Thunderbolts of the 19th Fighter Squadron share the airfield with Marine Corps TBM Avengers, Isely Field, Saipan, Mariana Islands, mid-1944"

Dodge WC-51 truck + fuel trailers


Cletrac M2 tractor + fuel trailers



I'm quite sure you could even use a Ford GTB (from Commander Models) as a towing vehicle as well...



H.P.

Here's a larger version of the picture :

http://militarymashup.com/mmu_get_jpeg.php?096f522f68a6899798f1c6e3fcd443c41

H.P.

So far my two problems are #1 cannot find big enough wheels and tires that I am happy with to use for that front set. (Been shopping the 1/24th scale truck market.) #2 I know there is a vertical driveshaft going from below the truck bed up into that upper winch assembly but I cannot figure out what it is connected to. GM did offer a rear facing PTO to drive pumps, etc. so that might be what is driving the crane thru an extra drive shaft and a 90 degree gearbox.

(Can't build it if I can't build it right!)

Talk about options; we can even paint it yellow!

I have a recollection of a short run kit from "Fonderie Miniature" carried by Squadron in the US about 12 Years ago. I can provide no details but it might still be out there in cyberland

there is even a Beep in this scale, but very hard to find(?)

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there is even a Beep in this scale, but very hard to find(?)

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Not that hard
http://www.habohobby.se/en/products/plastickits/mfg-a-z/pilot-replicas/dodge-wc52-148-tow-jeep.html
H.P.

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So far my two problems are #1 cannot find big enough wheels and tires that I am happy with to use for that front set. (Been shopping the 1/24th scale truck market.) #2 I know there is a vertical driveshaft going from below the truck bed up into that upper winch assembly but I cannot figure out what it is connected to. GM did offer a rear facing PTO to drive pumps, etc. so that might be what is driving the crane thru an extra drive shaft and a 90 degree gearbox.

(Can't build it if I can't build it right!)

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Michael, I've actually been to the Wilson Steel scrapyard near Midura. They have 3 of the "Dinosaur Cranes" and still use them. The crane PTO is off the side of the main gearbox and goes through an angle drive then up to a 3-speed gearbox on the crane itself. I have asked Don Wilson for some close images of the mechanisms and he is happy to oblige so I will send them through once I get them. When I am back in Mildura next I will make time to get some detail shots and dimensions for you.
Cheers, D

Damian, that I more or less what I figured but could not be sure. The prospect of more detail photos is a fantastic possibility!

Isn't world wide communication wonderful?

Thank you