TEXAS TOY MAN

Collector Bank: The Crusin 1986, Laser Firing Van

The pictured “Van Bank” is one of the most unusual multi-action toys that I have seen in my years of collecting. And, while it may not have the value of some of the older toys, it is unique in its operation. This plastic bank transforms by opening – down the middle (long ways) – thus converting into twin cannon firing guns plus twin mini-guns.

When you pull open the roof of the van bank, the two mechanisms are displayed, i.e, laser cannons and cockpit. The laser cannons are deployed by pushing a button located on the rear of the van. The min-guns in the front are are operated manually – and display by rotating the front grill.

The most surprising feature of this bank is that the wheel action of pushing it either forwards or backwards causes the large laser gun (rear) to rotate in a 360° arc. Also, one is able to view several landscape picture decals located along the inside ‘window’ panels that show different firing views of targets and angle of projectory.

The deployed rear moveable cockpit firing position and the front cockpit can be manually folded down putting the van bank back into the ‘normal’ position.

This van is approximately 9-1/4 inches long, 3-5/8 inches wide and 4-1/4 inches tall. The roll-o-mattic mechanism is enclosed in the flooring of the van – which is all plastic – with the exception of the wheels that are rubber with metal axles. The base of the van has raised features on the bottom molded in, i.e. exhaust system, drive system, etc.

This toy bank, six-action toy was produced by Kenner Parker of Ohio in 1986, and was manufactured in Hong Kong. Even though this toy has many different actions, it is still considered a still bank because the action is not caused by the depositing of money into the bank but rather actions taken by the owner.

This is a very unique bank that I think any collector would appreciate due to the uniqueness that it offers as both a bank and a toy. Like most toys, especially those with moving parts and pieces, if you’re lucky enough to find one not broken and complete with accessories, it will make a fine addition to your collection.

“Navy” style Folding Wing Press Steel Airplane

This vintage airplane is reminiscent of stamped steel toys like those produced by Wyandotte, Hubley  and Dent.  This  pressed steel toy airplane is  in the style of a  Navy  folding  low-wing fighter.   I could not find this plane in any of my reference books, but  in my opinion it looks to fall into the period of toys dating in the 1920-1930′s.

The overall wingspan has a measurement of 9 inches and the length of the airplane is 6 inches.  Painted both inside and out with two-tone paint job - red body and blue wingtips.   There are six  cut out windows and this airplane sports a four blade propeller with the three (3)  landing wheels being  made of wood. The tail configuration is a twin vertical tails.

I have done quite a bit of research trying to locate the manufacture and age of this toy, however, so far have struck out.  If you have any information about this airplane please let me know so I can update this post for the benefit of my readers . . .  thank you.

Coca-Cola Ford Beverage Delivery Truck-Siku

Advertising collectibles are some of the most sought after items around, especially those associated with top market brands. Now while some find the older pieces more desirable, there are more current items out there – like this pictured Ford Coca-Cola Delivery Truck, #2918 – that are just as interesting due to its association with Coca-Cola.

Manufactured in West Germany by Siku ( Sieper Werke Gmb H) this model is a 1:55 scale model ‘die cast’ item. Siku Eurobuilt manufactured this truck to scale, accurately depicting the real truck in all of its specifications. This even included the blueprints and working details associated with the actual truck. Note: Siku is also registered as making toys in not only West Germany but also Great Britain and here in the United States.

The measurements of the original – life-sized – Coca-Cola delivery truck are as follows:

1. Overall length – 411.4′
2. Wheel base – 238.4′
3. Overall height – 132.0′
4. Overall width – 110.0′
5. Cab height – 107.7′
6. Track, front – 68.3′

On this diecast model, you’ll find that the truck panels open and it comes with its own hand truck and beverage cases (plastic). This classy model even has independent suspension! A lot of Coca-Cola collectibles are out there, however, you may find that this particular one is harder to find with Siku manufacturing some of the best diecast model toys for the collector.