The Heller 1/35 GMC CCKW 353 plastic model kit faithfully recreates the backbone of Allied wartime logistics with precision French engineering, an authentic multi-part chassis, full engine detailing, and a scale driver figure.
The GMC CCKW 2.5-ton 6x6 cargo truck, affectionately known as the "Jimmy" or "Deuce and a Half," was as vital to Allied victory as the Jeep or the Sherman tank. Manufactured in excess of 800,000 units starting in 1941, this rugged workhorse powered the Red Ball Express and delivered critical supplies directly onto the beaches of Normandy during the D-Day landings. Powered by a 104 hp drivetrain capable of navigating unforgiving combat terrain, the CCKW 353 long-wheelbase variant served across every Allied theater of operations, continuing under French and European service long after the Liberation.
Heller's 1:35 scale kit captures the mechanical character of this logistics legend across 226 detailed plastic parts. Modelers build a complete replica engine, detailed transfer cases, twin rear axles, a realistic front bumper winch, and an open or covered rear cargo bed. The kit also includes an authentic driver figure and waterslide decals for both U.S. Army Normandy invasion forces and the French 2nd Armored Division (2ème DB) during the August 1944 Liberation of Paris.
Key Features & Specifications
- Complete 1/35 scale replica of the classic Allied 2.5-ton 6x6 military transport truck.
- Comprehensive 226-piece assembly featuring multi-part suspension, drivetrain, and cabin components.
- Detailed engine replica with authentic manifold, radiator, and transmission assemblies.
- Realistic scale driver figure included to bring military dioramas to life.
- Two authentic marking schemes: U.S. Army (June 6, 1944) and French 2ème DB (August 1944).
- Versatile cargo options allowing for open bed or full canvas tarpaulin display.
What’s in the Box?
Precision-Molded Olive Drab Sprues: 226 high-grade polystyrene components detailing the chassis frame, drivetrain, cabin, wheels, and cargo bed.
Optically Clear Windshield Parts: Transparent plastic pieces for the split-front windscreen, side cab glass, and headlamp lenses.
Scale Driver Figure: Multi-part plastic military driver figure tailored for in-cabin positioning.
Premium Waterslide Decals: Comprehensive markings covering Allied invasion stars, bumper identification codes, bridge classification badges, and French tricolor markings.
Illustrated Instructions: Multi-lingual step-by-step assembly manual with exploded mechanical diagrams and multi-view camouflage paint guides.
Technical Product Details
- Manufacturer: Heller
- Product Number: HEL81121 (HEL/81121)
- Scale: 1:35 Scale
- Subject Type: Military Transport / WW2 6x6 Tactical Cargo Truck
- Model Dimensions: 7.70" L x 2.52" W (196 mm x 64 mm)
- Packaging Dimensions: 14.75" L x 9.80" W x 2.75" H
- Age Recommendation: 14 Years and above
- Assembly Requirements: Unassembled plastic kit; model cement and paint sold separately
Tips:
Surface Preparation: Wash plastic sprues in lukewarm, soapy water prior to painting to remove mold release residue and maximize primer adhesion on intricate suspension components.
Chassis Alignment: Assemble the chassis rails, engine mounts, and drive axles on a flat glass surface to prevent warping and ensure all ten wheels sit flush.
Diorama Groundwork: If incorporating this truck into a Normandy hedgerow or European roadside scene, apply Gamers Grass tufts along tire ruts and diorama base edges to achieve realistic field vegetation.
Suggested Colors (Heller Acrylic Paint Match)
- Light Olive Matt (Heller 86): Primary exterior base color for U.S. and French military bodywork and wheels.
- Matt Olive Drab / Khaki (Heller 66): Canvas canopy top, cab side curtains, and cargo tarpaulin.
- Matt Black / Coal Black (Heller 33 / 85): Treaded tires, engine wiring, and chassis components.
- Gunmetal / Silver Metallic (Heller 53 / 11): Exhaust manifold, driveshafts, and recovery winch hook.
- Matt Rust (Heller 113): Weathering effects along chassis rails, wheel hubs, and exhaust pipes.
