This was the first toy produced by the company. It was marketed from 1946 through 1949 and built to 1:16 scale.
Although many slight changes occurred during its four-year production run, there are three significant versions of this toy. The most recognizable distinguishing characteristic is the wheel hub treatment. The photos below also highlight other differences.
Version #1 – 1946
I believe this very toy was the first 1946 Wooldridge produced at the factory. I call it “Adam.” As proof, see the insert photo and notice the missing rib.
The over all form of the first version is easy to recognize once you know what details to look for.
Insert detail used to support the “Adam” identification.
The first version wheel had a small hub integrally molded into the outer wheel disc.
The rear hook shown here is very rare. It is likely that only the very first toys had this feature.
This lever releases the bottom dump doors by moving back the spring steel latch.
Round-headed rivets were used to hold the spring steel latch mechanism to the dump bed.
Toys produced during the first two years used angle sheet stock for the front step.
Commonly referred to as “T-bar” steering, this feature appeared in 1946 and 1947.
Version #2 – 1947
Toys found in their original boxes are highly prized by collectors. They are also useful in documenting production characteristics for a given year.
This version still shares many traits with the 1946 release.
The wheels on this toy were held on by a flat disc-shaped cap, larger than the 1946 hub.
As mentioned above, the tow hook soon dis appeared from the rear cross member.
The dump lever remained unchanged from the previous year.
No changes here either.
The front step continued to be made with angle stock sheet metal.
The steering remained the same as 1946.
Doepke boxes are very hard to find, especially in good condition.
Notice the “47” date stamped on the bottom of the box manufacturer’s logo.