The 2005 National Farm Toy Show Tractor - Oliver 2655
By Jason Hasert
The National Farm Toy Show celebrated its 28th Anniversary this year. Each year since its founding in 1978, Toy Farmer Magazine has offered a show tractor. The March 2005 Toy Tractor Times reviewed all 28 years of show tractors www.toytractortimes.com/march05/oliver.php
The 1/32 Oliver 2655 for 28th National Farm Toy Show tractor is the third 1/32 4wd from Toy Farmer magazine. The 1/64 2655 National Show Tractor is the sixth in the Toy Farmer series that dates back to 1999. Ertl did an excellent job on the Oliver 2655 model in both 1/32 and 1/64. These models have caught collectors attention.
There are many features on this show tractor. One of those being the 3 point hitch. The drawbar is an accurate model of the real machine. Ertl is starting to replicate the true draw bars on collectors editions rather than just adding a generic hitch as in the past.. The paint scheme is very close to the real one. The 585 cu. inch Minneapolis-Moline diesel engine offers plenty of detail too.
The cab interior is also excellent. Inside the cab collectors will find levers and the proper steering wheel. You can even find the power steering marks by the steering column. Ertl has added die-cast steps to access the cab. Behind the cab sits a detailed fuel tank. There are flasher lights above the rear fenders, and the fenders tare quite realistic. The tires and rims also reflect accurate detail. The tires have the Good Year imprint.
The description of this replica is inscribed on the plate under the tractor. Ertl is starting to place the collectors stamp under the model. Collectors for many years have complained about collectors inserts taking away from a models detail when it was placed on the side of the engine frame. The show inscription was cast onto a removable plate. This leads collectors to speculate additional models like a Minneapolis-Moline and White Plainsman A4T-1600 models may be in the works.
The 1/64 2655 also is an impressive model. The 3-pt is fixed in a raised position and it has a separate top link which pivots up and down. The white wheels have silver painted trim on the outer lip with a nicely tooled and detailed hub insert. The front grill is not a decal and offers 3D relief. Paint and decals are flawless.
The 2005 National Farm Toy Show Tractors offer a new level of detail from Ertl. I have included a picture of the real tractor from the 1973 Oliver buyers guide so that collectors can compare for themselves.
The 29th show tractor is a year away from release but Toy Farmer will give a hint on its identity in their January 2006 issue. Collectors are eager to start guessing what it will be.
|
