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The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (second edition) makes the usual distinction between light and dark GPW. Variation 11-2D appears to be a GPW r/a model with the oblong hole at the rear and no side-tank trim but without the cab-to-tank brace. If proven (and it is plausible), this would become the new Nick Jones variation code 8a. The listing also mentions KGPW (but only for a single model) in addition to GPW (which must be Nick's 8 x 18). Does any member have a model with wheels which would fit this description? Variation code 11-2J (r/a, round hole, cab-to-tank brace, no side-tank trim, GPW) is noted as having a decal with a blue rather than a dark blue surround. Can anyone confirm the existence of a significant colour difference on the decal?
The AIM's “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) has an unlisted casting variation as variation 11-2f. This is Nick's variation code 12 (GPW, r/a/ 2.5 mm brace, both holes, cab-to-tank brace, no side-tank trim) but with a flat rather than a half-round cross-brace on the base. Fortunately this variation was also identified by Rob Newson in U.K. Matchbox and illustrated.Having inspected my own examples, it is clear that AIM's listing is wrong. This crossbrace is normally flat on both sides, but there is a single issue where quarter-round strengthening was added to the forward face. (I would suggest that this was simply an intermediate step between the 2.5 mm and 4 mm wide versions.) Can any Member provide a photograph of what should be Nick's new variation code 12a?
Neither Stannard nor Houghton list any variations not already captured by Nick. However Leake ("Concise Catalogue of 75 Series Matchbox Toys by Lesney" (4th edition, reprinted 2006)) tantalisingly lists the model as being either with or without ridge in his 'base detail variations'. Can anyone clarify?
U.K. Matchbox examined the model in vol. 3 no. 8 (Oct. '79) p 146, identifying the unlisted intermediate crossbrace variation discussed above.

Idris wrote: Variation 11-2D appears to be a GPW r/a model with the oblong hole at the rear and no side-tank trim but without the cab-to-tank brace. If proven (and it is plausible), this would become the new Nick Jones variation code 8a. U.K. .

Yes Hugh, I can confirm this variation.
Antonin

Idris wrote: Variation code 11-2J (r/a, round hole, cab-to-tank brace, no side-tank trim, GPW) is noted as having a decal with a blue rather than a dark blue surround. Can anyone confirm the existence of a significant colour difference on the decal?

Yes, there is slight difference in the decal dark blue/ blue surround.

Pretty rare variation with gold trim, but with dome head crimped axles

one unlisted variation with MS rear silver trim

Another unlisted variation with BPW ø8x18, MS silver trim applied to grill and headlights only, 2,5mm wide cross brace, with closed oblong and round hole

And another unlisted variation:
a) rear brace with step
b) rear brace without step
Antonin

I think that in Stannard´s list ist a mistake. There is mentioned a variation with SPW ø8x18. In my opinion, the SPW ø8x18 never existed.
Antonin

Diecast wrote:And another unlisted variation:
a) rear brace with step
b) rear brace without step

That might well be Leake's 'ridge' variation

Diecast wrote:I think that in Stannard´s list ist a mistake. There is mentioned a variation with SPW ø8x18. In my opinion, the SPW ø8x18 never existed.

The SPW variant is listed in most catalogues. What is unclear is whether they simply copied from each other (and therefore, ultimately, from a single incorrect original source) or whether several different SPW examples exist and have been catalogued independently.