Firetruck Will Keep The Kids Entertained All Year Long

What child hasn’t dreamed of becoming a firefighter, driving a big red firetruck and answering the call to adventure?

This do-it-yourself version of an old-time firetruck is meant for kids aged four to eight. Foot-powered and sturdy, it is designed to be inexpensive and simple to build. Among its realistic touches are reflectors, which stand in for emergency lights, and a hose and reel.

The required materials should be available at a local home center. They include two sheets of exterior plywood, a steel rod, a wooden dowel, three lengths of pipe, four wheels, a hose, reflectors and assorted hardware, along with bright red, silver, black and yellow paint.

Although it has a lot of neat details, this project is designed for do-it-yourselfers of all skill levels. Traceable patterns make sizing the parts a snap: After tracing the pieces onto plywood, just saw them and sand them. Assembly calls for gluing and nailing the pieces together. To finish, paint and add accessories.

The completed truck measures about 36 inches long by 24 inches wide by 21 inches tall.

The firetruck plan, No. 634, is $6.50 and includes complete step-by-step directions with photos, full size traceable patterns, diagrams, a shopping list and painting tips.

A package of four plans for toy vehicles, No. C69, is $18.95 and includes plans for the firetruck as well as for a dump truck, jeep and tractor. Prices include sales tax, postage and handling (for first-class mail, add $1 per item).

MEMO: To order, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. Please specify plan numbers.