Tamiya 35130 - 1:35 M151A2 Ford Mutt with Trailer

Plastic model kit of the American M151A2 MUTT with M416 trailer in 1:35 scale

The M151A2 with a cargo trailer behind it is the picture of everyday work in American units: hauling supplies, ammunition and signals equipment. Tamiya 35130 combines the MUTT with the single-axle M416 quarter-ton trailer. The trailer release dates from 1984, while the vehicle itself comes from 1982 tooling.

The model captures the vehicle's simple, angular shape with its open body, along with the trailer complete with drawbar and sides. Optional parts allow the vehicle to be built in either US Army or USMC configuration, and decals for both are supplied.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with body, chassis and interior parts
• Single-axle M416 cargo trailer (1/4 t capacity)
• Optional parts for a US Army or USMC version
• Clear parts
• Driver figure
• Waterslide decal sheet: US Army and USMC
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:35
• Item number: 35130
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 98 mm (vehicle); trailer approx. 79 mm
• Skill level: beginner

Please note: glue, paints and modelling tools are not included. This is a kit for self-assembly.

Building the model:

The kit is small and quick to build, with the trailer forming a separate, simple sub-assembly. Decide at the outset whether you are building the US Army or the USMC version, as this determines the optional parts used. It is worth painting the interior before the body goes together, and masking the windscreen with tape before painting.

For painting we suggest US Olive Drab (e.g. Tamiya XF-62). The trailer offers plenty of scope for a load and for weathering — it was usually dirtier than the vehicle towing it. Applying the decals over a gloss coat helps avoid silvering, and a matt varnish makes a good final coat. Pigments will bring out the dust on the wheels and chassis.

Tools you will need:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sanding paper
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Masking tape (for the windscreen)
• Brushes in various sizes
• Model paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Wash to bring out detail
• Optional: weathering pigments for dust and mud

About the vehicle – M151A2 MUTT with M416 trailer:

The M151 MUTT entered production in 1959 as the jeep's replacement. It had a unitary body and fully independent suspension; the A2 version, built from 1970, received a revised rear suspension that improved stability. It was powered by a four-cylinder engine of around 2.3 litres producing 71 hp.

The quarter-ton M416 trailer was the standard companion to the US Army's light utility vehicles. Single-axled, with a drop tailgate, it carried ammunition, signals equipment, jerry cans and general supplies. The vehicle-and-trailer combination was an everyday sight in supply columns and on training areas throughout the Cold War.

Original specifications (M151A2 / M416 trailer):

• Type: light utility vehicle with cargo trailer
• Powerplant: four-cylinder engine, approx. 2.3 l, 71 hp
• Four-wheel drive, independent suspension
• A2 version: from 1970, with revised rear suspension
• M416 trailer: single-axle, 1/4 t capacity
• Operators: US Army and USMC
• Service: from 1959 (M151 family) and throughout the Cold War

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 by Yoshio Tamiya in Shizuoka, a city regarded as the centre of the Japanese model industry. The company started out in the timber trade and made wooden models, releasing its first injection-moulded plastic kit in 1960. Two years later came the 1:35 tank that established the world standard scale for military modelling. The brand is known for precise tooling and excellent parts fit, which is why its kits are equally popular with beginners and experienced modellers. The Military Miniature Series, to which this kit belongs, runs to hundreds of releases covering vehicles, artillery and figures. Tamiya instructions are clear and well illustrated, with painting guides referenced to the company's own paint range. Besides kits, Tamiya offers a full range of accessories: paints, cements, tools and brushes. The company is present in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable names in the hobby.