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This purpose-built vehicle was perfect for handling the criminal element in the late forties. Paddywagons had been around for a long time prior to the Suburban but none were any better suited to the task than this full-sized Chevy. Similarly, this isn’t the first FM Suburban but it certainly is a treat to have the Suburban line extended to such a specific and interesting calling. Originally issued, in October of 1999, FM offered us the ’46 Chevy Suburban Carryall. In green over black, it was outfitted as a sportsman’s vehicle. It came with a canoe and camping accessories. I had to have it. Then to spice things up a bit they followed up, in 2000, with a Ski Lodge version in Model 3105 Light Duty Panel Truck disguise. It carried everything the skier or rescue crew needed for a cold day’s outing.
A little over a year later, FM released their 1946 Suburban Carryall 3106 dressed up in red and green and ready to go to a Christmas party. It was designated as the 2001 Christmas Limited Edition. Four years passed before FM revived the image as a Suburban Carryall 3106 but this time in the livery of a red & white rescue ambulance. So maybe it was a forgone conclusion that the sheriff needed to enter the picture with the next obvious variation of the Suburban. This is one cool little customer. The Sheriff of Franklin County comes well armed to the diecast scene. He brings along a floor-mounted two-way radio, complete with wiring and coiled mike cord, a set of handcuffs on the front jump seat and a sheriff’s cap laid over a 12 gauge riot gun.
The model has a lot of nice features. Both seats flip forward. The windows slide up and down on both doors, FM built in a rotating driveshaft, photo-etched keyfob seen hanging from the ignition and there’s room for at least six bad guys in the back. Screening all around protects the sheriff and his passenger. You’ll find working suspension and a removable spare. The engine is finely wired and plumbed and fit and finish is superb. I can’t imagine what new variant may flow from this Suburban next but I sure can’t wait to see it!
(02/24/2008)
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