Manufactured by Waihi Tool and Die Ltd, this heavy duty truck was extremely well tooled and designed, making it a very robust toy. The finish in every respect, including fitting of parts, press work and welding, as well as the painted surfaces, was of the highest professional standard.

Plastic airhorn, and clear windscreen were strong and well fitted, and like the six 75mm diameter plastic wheels, were well designed and functional. The hoist was simple and effective and likely to stay that way for a long time. A prestige toy indeed.

What is the Fun Ho! connection? Fun Ho! used the wheels extensively for a couple of years or so around 1977-1978, and the diecast hook, also made by Waihi, was used in conjunction with the Fun Ho ! No 533 Breakdown Truck for a number of years previously.

The injection moulded 75mm plastic wheels were used also on several Fun Ho ! Tractors and the Giant range of trucks for a period too (see Wheels).

Cab and body dimensions were 460 x 180mm (18 " x 7") with an extra overhang of 63mm (21/2") of the hoist boom. The cab was 190mm ( 7 1/2") high and the top of the hoist boom was 265mm (10 1/2") high from the ground.




With double headlights, "Heavy Haulage Toys" on each door panel, a "Motorway Breakdown Service" on each side of the deck, black and yellow stripes angled on the tail gate - check that the hook is up and away we go!

Barry Young 2004