Review by George Riley/photos by the author
When Ransom E. Olds left the Olds Motor Works in 1904 he quickly formed a new auto-manufacturing firm that would bear his initials, REO. In 1908 he introduced a light pickup sized truck based on his early automobile chassis design, the REO Model H Power Wagon. Designed in a cab-over-engine configuration, the Model H was available in either a 9 h.p. single cylinder engine or a 12 h.p. opposed two-cylinder engine driving the rear wheels through a series of gears and chains. Initial offerings were delivered with 33” conventional wagon wheels with a total capacity of 1,500 pounds. Later models would feature smaller rubber tired wheels. While production appears to have ended around 1912, the Model H was replaced in the REO line in 1915 by the first Speed Wagons placing the REO Company firmly in the business of truck manufacturing.
Berkshire Valley Models has released a number new of O Scale (1/48) draft and motorized classic vehicles in its growing line of products. The latest offing is a series of three REO Model H trucks. Featuring die-cast chassis and details with a laser cut laser board superstructure, these kits build up quickly and easily to yield a truly unique and accurate model of these classic vehicles.
The one-piece die-cast frame is detailed with a full suite of metal springs, axles, gears, chains and wheels. Additionally, a multi-piece opposed two-cylinder engine is nicely detailed and features separate valve rocker arms and exposed push rods.
The upper works consist of laminated, tap in slot laser board parts that assemble perfectly. The body is detailed with a number of die-cast parts yielding a superbly detailed vehicle. The box truck can be build with an open or covered cab from the parts included in the kit. Also included in the kit is a set of water-slide, black REO decals that can be used to decorate the radiator front or cab side. Available in the series is an enclosed body delivery truck and an express truck with canopy.
These models are perfect for anyone modeling the early twentieth century. Fully assembled kits produce a striking model of an interesting and unusual early truck.
Item # 232 O Scale REO High Wheel Box Truck
MSRP – $37.95
Berkshire Valley Models
438 Morgan Woods Dr.
Fenton, MO 63026
ph: 314-301-4005
