Navigation

1965 Tonka Gas Turbine Trucks

Odd looking. Futuristic. Definitely different. But one that kept Tonka, if not the leader in toy truck design, at least among the industry front runners. The 1965 line of Tonka Toys included the new standard-size (Regular) futuristic trucks with a new modern COE . To ensure lasting play value, Tonka Toys were manufactured of automobile gauge steel. Surfaces were protected by two coats of real truck paint - Dupont "Delux" vehicle enamel. Prior to painting, the steel components were immersed in a special phosphatizing solution that minimized chipping and scratching after the components were painted. Prior to 1965, rubber tires were used on standard-size (Regular) trucks. 1965 saw the introduction of the TX-500 injection molded plastic tire. The TX-500 tire was advertised as "guaranteed for life" and "lifetime".

1965 first year Tonka Toys Turbine models were the red #620 Cement Mixer, #840 Car Carrier, #926 Pumper, #998 Aerial Ladder and the #2175 Construction Set. The yellow Cement Mixer was only available in the #2175 Construction Set. It was not sold individually.

OBSERVATION: Model #620 Cement Mixer was the first Regular series toy manufactured with the new "Gas Turbine" cab.

OBSERVATION: The over-sized windshield was very susceptible to cracking, especially from 1965 through 1970. Beginning in 1971, a more resilient plastic was used.

CHANGES FROM LAST YEAR: The single extension ladder and two auxiliary side ladders included with the 1965 and 1966 model #998 Aerial Ladder are made of natural finish aluminum. This will change in 1967.

CHANGES FROM LAST YEAR: The ladder on the 1965 model #926 Pumper was stamped (pressed) steel and painted red. The ladder remained red in 1966. Some historical trivia you need to know, ladders for Pumpers manufactured since 1956, were stamped (pressed) out of aluminum. Steel replaced aluminum in 1963 as the material of choice for Pumper ladders.

CHANGES FROM LAST YEAR: The load on the 1965 #840 Car Carrier consisted of one blue Falcon sedan, one white Falcon sedan and one red Ranchero.

OBSERVATION: The yellow Mixer featured in the Model #2175 Construction Set would be one of the more collectible Gas Turbine trucks as it was only available for one year.