This is my first (and probably my only) major custom based on the recently introduced Playmobil fire engines. It's a Heavy Rescue Unit/Incident Support Unit and, currently, it is only finished externally as the interior is still to be fitted out and there are still some specialist items to finish. However, I thought I would show it so far as it may be some time yet before I will have time to complete it.
Some general information to start with.
I've always thought since it first came out that the 4821 would make a good rescue vehicle or emergency tender. On klickywelt, a couple of members have already done such a conversion and one member there, grisu112, added a fourth equipment locker to his version, just like the real German rescue vehicles.
I built the vehicle from parts bought from DS as this was cheaper and easier than buying another new 4821 and also meant that I didn't buy bits I didn't want.
The rescue vehicle will be turned out in the following circumstances:
- a road traffic accident involving more than two vehicles
- any road traffic accident involving heavy commercial or passenger vehicles, e.g. a coach
- railway accidents
- aircraft incidents.
plus other incidents as appropriate (this is its Incident Support Unit role).
Now some photos, starting with a front view which is basically unchanged:
A side view, too, at first glance suggests little change:
A top view shows that two floodlight masts are carried rather than one:
These are the working ones available at first with the 3178 fire trailer and now from DS. Unfortunately, there is no room to carry the battery pack on the top.
A view now with the lighting masts extended:
A rear view shows the only major external change, a high visibility directional warning sign taken from the construction trailer:
At first, I planned to buy this part from DS, but found out it was cheaper to buy the whole construction trailer set, which also gave me a spare construction trailer.
Finally for this post, a photo of the warning sign in operation:
Next week, I hope to add photos showing the battery stowage for the rear warning sign.
