I’m not much for 1:24th diecasts(my 1/64, 1/18, & 1/16 already take up too much room), but when I saw this Ford stepvan looking forlorn at the flea market I knew I had to have it.
It is labeled as being made by Crown Premiums, but some research shows the same van made by Phoenix Unique Replicas. It appears Phoenix sells to the public and Crown made custom-branded versions for giveaways & promotions.
This is somewhat confusing as the only references to Wesner’s Dairy I can find show it did once exist in PA, but is long closed. So why custom-branded trucks with their logo would be made(and end up in RI) is beyond me.
Back to the truck though. In addition to the overall look, it has incredible levels of detail. Both side doors fold open, the rear doors open, the steering works, the engine cover opens, and the seat back folds down.
They also have a battery compartment that makes a light light up when you open the rear doors, and some versions have a bank hidden in a box in the cargo area(mine is missing the box).
It was in fairly rough shape by the time it reached the flea market. I ended up having to drill out & put in a nail in place of a snapped king pin(along with a cut down pen spring). Replace a missing hinge pin with a bent & cut straight pin. Re-glue the exhaust & mirrors, re-install the engine cover & battery cover, and give it a thorough cleaning.
I think it came out pretty good. It still has some significant issues(missing wiper, missing floor panel in the back). But I’m going to be happy to put it on display.
