1/14 Volvo Globetrotter 420

 The FH series semi-tractor truck was released in the fall of 1993 and became Volvo's primary truck. In 1994, it was awarded the prestigious "Truck of the Year" title. It's huge 12-liter inter cooled turbo diesel engine was known as the "Euro 2", and was the result of state-of-the-art engineering technology for its day.

The Tamiya rendition faithfully captures the truck's form with the use of ABS plastic body parts and a number of metal chassis components. The chassis is built for durability as it uses aluminum side channels with resin cross members. Drivability is accomplished by power from the front-mounted motor and is transmitted via a propeller shaft to the rear axle; built-in differential gears guarantee smooth cornering. Gear changes can be made via a separately-sold Tamiya 4-channel transmitter which controls the shift changes to the 3-speed transmission.

 Tamiya semi trucks require assembly and paint. A 2-channel stick radio system with receiver, electronic speed control (ESC), steering servo, transmission shift servo, 6-cell NiMH battery and charger are all required for minimal functionality.

Most semi trucks can make use of a Tamiya MFC (Multi-function controller). An MFC replaces the need for a speed control and is designed to work with Tamiya four channel two stick transmitter. The MFC provides additional functions like lights, sounds and a cab shaker. There are MFC's available specifically for European style tractors, North American tractors and also Pickup trucks.

Tamiya recommends these tools for assembly

JIS + Large Screwdriver TAM74006
JIS+ Medium Screwdriver TAM74007
Flat Screwdriver TAM74008
Long Nose Pliers TAM74002
Needle Nose Pliers TAM74034
Side cutters TAM74001
Sharp Pointed Side Cutters TAM74035
2mm E-Ring Tool TAM74032
4mm E-Ring Tool TAM74033
5.5mm Nut Driver TAM74028
1.5mm Hex Driver TAM74029
Precision Calliper TAM74030
Straight Tweezers TAM74004
Angled Tweezers TAM74003
Decal Scissors TAM74031
Instant cement
Plastic cement
Modeling Knife

Scissors, files, cellophane tape and Tamiya E-Ring tools will also be helpful in assembly.