The most important part of the model was the Chassis.  The chassis is a boat like amphibious structure with eight driving shafts.  Once we had the chassis done, the construction started on the rest of the parts.  The straight edges of the vehicle made construction easy.  From the start I decided that the detail work (filters, wire grids) would be done in photo-etch (metal) parts.  This would help with time and detail later in the project.  I also had the non-slip plate that is fitted on the stepping areas of the vehicle done in Photo-etch.  This allowed for a very detailed finish once painted.

Waiting for the photo-etch parts delayed the construction of the main body.  The vehicle has 14 wheels in total.  8 main wheels, 4 trailer wheels and 2 spare wheels had to be fitted to each model.  I thought it best to complete the master of the wheel and start molding the 210 wheels needed for the project.

The first prototype model was shown to Crayford for approval within 6 weeks.  Like all projects, the client wanted a little more once they realized what can be done.  A SS-77, the ammo box, gun mounting, stretcher and 2 R5 rifles were requested as extras.  These parts, as with the rest of the model, was all constructed from scratch.

Front view

Once the prototype was accepted, molding the parts started in all earnest.  The wheels were the biggest problem and it was soon realized that we will have to do a lot of work cleaning the wheels after casting.  The wheels will remain a problem and as we were running out of time, I decided to rather weather the vehicle than try and get a factory fresh look.  The client liked the idea and this resolved the problem of filling all the small holes in the wheels. The client gave us a realistic date of delivery and we delivered the project within the requested time.

The 1/15 scale Gecko makes a nice model and I decide to do one for myself.  The Gecko attracts lots of interest at any show we attend.  BaxMod is planning to do a 1/72 scale Gecko.  The model will form part of the current range offered.

Gecko with trailer

 Gallery of the actual vehicle and scale model. Gallery opens in new window. Gallery registration reguired.