Introduction

Curious isn't it? We wait years for someone to do an affordable plastic kit of British Scout Cars and two manufacturers produce models of the same vehicle. Also, somewhat ironically, I did a full-build review of the SKP Model Humber I/II only to receive from the manufacturer, samples of two useful update sets for the engine/transmission and for full interior detail. In that respect, i'll be limiting these review to a 'First-Look' or 'Preview' giving an idea of what to expect.

SKP's Update Set

Firstly, i'm doing this as a simple 'Preview' having built the Humber previously and having arranged for a full-build to be done using this set and the Interior Set.

The Set : The kit comes in the typical packaging established by SKP Model - inside a reasonably substantial cardboard box with the parts contained in two plastic bags. One bag contains the resin parts, the other the single PE sheet. Also folded into the box is a very complete instruction bookñlet consisting of three A4 pages in color. The kit consists of 41 resin parts and 15 Photo-Etch components.

In a bit more detail

What does the set cover? Firstly, the engine. This consists of 33 parts. Secondly, the radiatior, thirdly the gearbox and a new interior fuel tank. The engine compartment cover is replaced by PE (which requires some bending into shape.

The Castings: Having gone over the resin parts, the casting is very good indeed. Very crisp detail with no mould-lines, sink holes or air-bubbles are present or noticeable.One thing which is worth bearing in mind, is that the casting blocks are pretty substantial.

The Instructions: This isn't as simple an update set as one might think. The powerplant is a pretty complex form and requires careful consideration and assembly. The instructions are frankly an object lesson in clear and concise assembly. Everything is shown in exploded view with clear references to the kit parts along with additional diagrams where needed. It may sound ridiculous, but a nicely done diagram is provided for painting instructions. There are a series of coded boxes indicating when to glue, bend, open hole and scratch-build (in a few minor items such as handles).

the use of the set

Logically, it's designed for the SKP Model Humber Scout Car Mk.1 (SKP 011) , however, it wouldn't be beyond the realms of possibility to use it with the Bronco Model Humber Scout Car either. Certainly, it would also have an application in a workshop diorama with a vehicle undergoing an engine change or maintenance. It could, with some thought, be a very versatile set indeed.

Links and reference

The build review of SKP's Humber Scout Car can be seen: HERE (LINK)

Two useful sites with a lot of good WalkRounds of the vehicle. These can be seen here:

Tanxheaven (LINK)
WarWheels (LINK)