One view of the third-version Barber-Greene Bucket Loader from 1948-49.
By far the most common of the Doepke Bucket Loaders is the third version. The only significant variation from the previous year was the relocation of the transport wheel from the left side to the right side of the toy.
The tower lift arms are connected by rivets to the transport wheel shaft, as on the 1946 version.
This 3.5-inch bolt with a square nut was used on all versions except the last.
Different boxes were used to package the Bucket Loaders in different positions. As shown above, this toy was shipped on its back.
This Fairfield Paper box is clearly marked for 1948.
Version #4 – 1950
One view of the fourth-version Bucket Loader from 1950.
The most obvious and distinguishing feature of Version #4 is its brightorange paint scheme. There were other differences as noted below.
The 3.5-inch bolt was replaced by two rivets.
A diagonal brace in the frame was eliminated.
The top of the box shows the price of $13.95. As shown above, the toy was shipped in the upright position.
Gaylord Container made this box for the No. 2001 Bucket Loader in 1950.
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