HighJacker Off-Road Custom Van 1:20 Scale MPC Model Kit #813 Review

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150422*
HighJacker Off-Road Custom Van 1:20 Scale MPC Model Kit #813

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

 The Econoline is a line of full-size vans (both cargo and passenger) from the Ford Motor Company. The line was introduced in 1961 as a compact van and its descendants are still produced today. Though the E-Series (Econoline) has been its own unique platform since 1968, it uses many components from the F-Series line of pickup trucks. While this was a rear wheel drive vehicle there were custom builders that would do a 4×4 conversion to the vans. They were called Quadravans and were produced by aftermarket companies for Ford Motor Company and Ford Dealerships. Individuals also would do these 4×4 conversions using the front suspension parts from the F-Series Pickups.

 

For the modeler: This build review covers the Round2/MPC kit #MPC813 Ford Econoline HighJacker Off Road  Custom Van molded in 1/20 scale. The kit is a direct re-release (Re-Pop) from the original molds and has not been in production since the 70’s. Contents consist of over 200 parts molded in White, Clear and Clear Red, Chrome and with Vinyl tires. The build is highly detailed with interior parts for a custom camping style conversion. The motor has multiple parts and very detailed. The body is a 1974 version of the Econoline van and has opening rear and side doors. The chassis is a conversion 4×4 and has nice off-road tires, although the tires are more suited for a 1/24 scale 4×4 as they are too small for this truck. There is a large decal sheet with mural panels for the van sides. The instruction sheet is typical of the earlier MPC offerings in the 70’s and a bit simplified but easy to follow. The finished build is impressive with a little bit of weight and size to it. Overall measurements are: Length: 9-1/2”, Width: 4”, Height: 5”.

 

Covered in this Review:  If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; abrasive choices; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; repairing excess flash; mold seam identification and repair; using white glue for the window glass; suspension construction installation; detailing the tires for realism; additional firewall and chassis detailing; chassis construction and detailing; mounting the body to the chassis; locating the connection points; tire logo considerations; front and rear wheel hub identification;  detailing the dashboard;  optional parts considerations; making custom license plates; cutting out the roof openings; using foil to highlight the trim; where “not” to use glue; interior decoration and the use of wood tones; grouping parts out of sequence for better finishing; adding foil to highlight the body trim; turn signal finishing colors; engine color guide; coil spring detailing for realism; engine detailing; door and hinge assembly; body-interior-chassis installation method; combining instruction steps for better finishing; using floor wax to make crystal clear window glass; using superglue for delicate parts;  winch construction; decal preparation and application; using decal setting solutions for that “painted on” look; are all fully examined in this 22 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

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