Last month we investigated budgetfriendly model trucking options, looking over a 1:64th scale diecast Mack Super Liner project I have on the go. Over the next two months, I want to demonstrate just how easy it is to take a simple toy and transform it into a one-off model truck for the absolute minimum of cash. On a recent visit to The Warehouse, I purchased three Siku 6x4 Scania fire appliances intending to morph them into a typical modern 9-axle Kiwi truck and trailer unit. The Scanias retailed for $9 each, so I paid $27 to get the required cab and the nine axles and wheelsets needed for the project. I’ve been slowly acquiring the rest of the materials when visiting hobby stores and keeping an eye on the rubbish and recycling bins both at home and work. I find these smaller diecast modification projects just as rewarding as constructing the bigger 1:25th- and 1:24th-scale plastic kit sets. As well the low cost, there are other advantages: they are great for beginners, with faster construction, and the finished rig takes up a lot less room in the display cabinet. In this month’s issue, we will take the model from 6x4 fire appliance through to 8x4 rigid dry-goods truck ready for the paint shop. Next month, we will look at how to scratch-build a matching 5-axle trailer to complete the combination.