Matchbox
1935 Ford Matchbox DIY Kit: Plan the 10 mm / 12 mm Build
The MM 1935 Ford Model A Pick Up DIY Matchbox kit is a prepared build project, not a finished custom truck. Its listing describes a genuine Matchbox casting stripped and ready to paint, with 10 mm front and 12 mm rear factory wheel sizes. Use those figures as the starting reference for this kit, then verify the actual replacement-wheel fit before painting and final assembly.
Write the parts plan before checkout
| Item | What the kit description establishes | What to confirm separately |
|---|---|---|
| Casting | 1935 Ford Model A Pick Up; prepared for paint | The current offer and photographed components |
| Wheel-size reference | 10 mm front / 12 mm rear factory sizes | Replacement tire width, axle length and clearance |
| Assembly | Designed to click together | The fit of your actual build |
| Variation | Wheel style, interior and window color may differ | Any component color essential to your plan |
| Supplies | No blanket upgrade-parts promise | Wheels, tires, axles, paint, decals, tools and adhesive contents |
Do not read “kit” as automatically including every item needed for your chosen custom. Confirm the package contents on the current product page or ask about a component before ordering it. The listing's variation note also means the pictured interior or window color should not be treated as a guaranteed color specification.
Dry fit before applying finish
Lay out the received components and check their condition. Bring the body, base and interior together gently without final adhesive to understand the fit. Stop if a component resists; forcing it can damage the project or hide a mismatch you need to resolve.
Compare front and rear wheel positions separately. A staggered reference means you should not automatically order four identical tires. Outside tire diameter is only one measurement: width, axle length, retention and the body clearance also affect whether the finished truck can sit and roll correctly.
Choose the finish system deliberately
Decide whether you want one body color or a more detailed scheme before opening the paint. Follow the paint and primer manufacturers' compatibility, application and curing instructions for the materials involved. Test a chosen system on a spare piece when possible, and keep paint away from fit-critical contact areas unless the system and assembly plan allow for it.
A thick coating can reduce clearance at a joint or wheel opening. Do not solve a poor fit by forcing the finished parts together. Check the cause and preserve a light, even finish consistent with the product instructions.
Assemble after the finish is ready
The listing says the kit is designed to click together and that model glue or rubber cement may be used for extra hold. Select an adhesive compatible with the actual materials and painted surfaces, following its instructions. First complete a gentle fit check; extra adhesive cannot correct a wrong axle length or rubbing tire.
After assembly, confirm the truck sits level and that the wheels have the freedom you intended. Keep a record of the wheel dimensions, paint system and any changed parts. If you prefer a truck with the wheel swap already fitted, compare the completed satin green 1935 Ford custom. It is a separate finished product, not the guaranteed outcome or contents of this DIY kit.
Find your next Matchbox project
Explore MM custom Matchbox cars and Matchbox DIY kits, checking each listing for the parts included. For original loose and vintage models, browse loose Matchbox cars or vintage Lesney Matchbox. Return to the Matchbox collector hub for more guides.
