MUNCLE MIKES · CASTING GUIDE
Grass HopperThe later Jeep lost more than its roof
A white top and an engine at each end give the first Grass Hopper much of its charm. Later versions were deliberately simplified, so an open cabin or a missing-looking engine needs a little investigation before you call the car incomplete.
The first Grass Hopper carried more equipment
Larry Wood’s Jeep-inspired design arrived in 1971. The U.S.-made version has a black interior, lightly tinted glazing, a removable white plastic top and two exposed engines, one at the front and one in the bed. Molded equipment includes a shovel, pick, canteen and fuel can.
On this version, look at how the roof sits and whether its edges show cracks or glue. A replacement can make a loose car look complete on the shelf, but it belongs in the description.
1974 removed the rear engine and roof
The Hong Kong Flying Colors revision deleted the rear engine, plastic top and some of the body equipment. Its metal base and interior were simplified, through-hole wheels replaced the earlier wheel construction, and printed decoration was added. The front engine remained.
That makes a side-by-side comparison worthwhile. The open rear area on a later car should not be judged against a photograph of the first version and automatically called damaged.
1975 changed the front as well
The next revision omitted the front engine, altered the grille and front body, and changed the base to plastic. These were substantial production changes, not just another paint color.
An underside view is particularly helpful when a listing only says “vintage Grass Hopper.” Check the front body at the same time. If a part appears broken rather than intentionally omitted, ask for a close view before deciding which version you are looking at.
The Short Order guide covers another early custom truck with a moving part worth checking.
Gun Slinger adds the mounted gun
Gun Slinger is the military version of the Grass Hopper family, documented from 1975 through 1977 in Hong Kong production. Its standard finish is olive drab, with a black interior. The white star and U.S. Army lettering on the hood distinguish the photographed example from a plain green Grass Hopper.
Look closely where the barrel rests on the windshield frame. The support changed: the later arrangement has a round clip molded into the top of the frame. That detail is more useful than assuming every year title represents a different casting.
Check the barrel, mounting post and windshield-frame edges for breaks or glue. Ask for a close view of the support before testing any movement; a repaired clip should not be forced to demonstrate a fit. Record a replacement gun as a replacement even when the truck looks complete on the shelf.
An old body and a neatly fitted accessory do not prove an untouched combination. Keep the underside, decoration and equipment in the same photo record, and preserve the package history when it is known.
