History

The Fordson Thames Flat Truck was released by Dinky in 1951 based on the real truck produced by the Ford Motor Co through its UK production division.

I have included a photo of the real truck and it is easy to see the Meccano designers eye for detail.

Released initially as a small commercial by Dinky, it was sold in a trade box of 6 under its initial coding ’30r’.

As with many models re-numbering took place in 1954 and became ‘422’, being given its own individual box. Its run came to an end in 1960.

As far as I am aware there were only four colours released two shades of green, red and the rarest brown. The very last models produced and I have seen very few, came with ‘M’ tyres but, more importantly, occasionally the late black shiny base plate.

Models will display their early or second life numbering on the underside but some models are un-numbered.

1951-54

All models had smooth tyres and standard base plate.

Sold from a trade box of 6.

  • Green with matching wheels.
  • Red with matching wheels.
  • Brown with maroon wheels.
  • Dark green with green wheels.

1954

Transitional re-numbering period. All above models can be found with un-numbered bases and dual individual boxes.

1954-1960

All models repeated but now with usually ‘422’ on base and their own ‘422’ box.

Valuation guide for Mint and near mint boxes;

  • ’30r’ un-boxed. Green, Dark green, or Red ——— £80-£100
  • Brown with maroon wheels ————————– £225-£300

Boxed items either dual or ‘422’ guide.

  • Green, Dark green, or Red ————————— £140-£180
  • Brown with maroon wheels dual box only, base can be either ’30r’ or un-numbered ———- £300-£350

Aprox. 1960

Late models produced using ‘M’ Tyres with a black gloss shiny base.

These are uncommon and therefore may achieve a higher than guided price.

Rare Issue in Brown with maroon wheels
Dark Green with green wheels