353: Shado 2 Mobile

DINKY 353 SHADO 2 MOBILE (1971-1980):

Three models were released by Dinky, licensed from Anderson’s and Century 21 production of U.F.O., a live action and real people series rather than made in Supermarionation i.e. puppets, broadcast between 1970 and 1972. Accompanying the Shado 2 Mobile was the 351 UFO Interceptor and 352 Ed Straker’s Car.

Group UFO.JPG

Dinky first released the Shado 2 Mobile in 1971. It was initially issued in a military olive green colour, designed to appeal both as a TV and a military toy. The last versions released from 1978 to 1980 were in metallic blue.

First and last versions of Dinky 353 Shado 2
Green and the later blue version of the Dinky 353 Shado 2 Mobile

The very first models probably had the smooth roofs which would have been more prone to bending and these were soon replaced by ribbed or grilled roofs. The majority of the smooth roofs were olive green although some were painted black. Once the ribbed roof became standard, they were mostly green although there are black versions. The black colour ribbed roof was standard  for the later blue versions. The first versions had an orange missile base (the underneath of the revolving roof), a red interior, black grill, light green base, large red brown wheels with silver tracks and a white missile with a red tip.

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353 A Side.JPG
353 A Front Back.png
353 A Top.3JPG.jpg
353 A Top.4JPG.jpg
353 A Bottom.JPG

The model featured a firing rocket launcher hidden underneath a swivelling roof activated by a radar shaped switch on the roof. Note the six holes on the base stanchions /pillars at the rear of the model. These were only on the first brown wheeled models (see below for more details)

IN THE TV SERIES:

The SHADO all purpose multi-terrain tracked vehicles were designed for all conditions. They were used to transport men and equipment to the site of UFO landings. and were armed with depth charges, rocket-launchers and turret mounted machine guns.

Shado's Multi Purpose All Terrain Vehicle in action

PROP v ACTUAL:

The model was a reasonably accurate rendition of the original vehicle, apart from the colours used. It had an accurate cab design with windscreen wipers although the body had a more square shape than the curved original. The weapon on the model was a missile rather than a machine gun and mortar launcher on the prop.

Prop v Actual.png
Prop v Actual2.png

GREEN VARIANTS:

Further releases of the GREEN version had different interiors, wheel colours and sizes, track colours, vehicle and missile base colours and bases and of course boxes. There is no clear timeline as to what variation was released when, except that the green wheels came later than the brown ones. The green wheels were also used on other later military models such as the Chieftain and Scorpion Tanks (large size) and the Leopard Tank (small size)

ROOFS:

There were four roof variants for the GREEN issues; green/smooth, green/ribbed and black/smooth and a black/ribbed version which was later used on the BLUE variants.

INTERIORS:

Six known interior colours were used, Red, Yellow, White, Cream, Pale Blue and Grey.

Interiors x 4 3.jpg
Yellow, Red, Pale Blue and White interiors
353_Cream COMP.png
Cream interior with white one for comparison. Image: Matthew Trbuhovic

MISSILE BASE:

The missile base colours were orange, black or green.

353 missile bases.png

Dignos Nostalgic Collections sold a version with a red base (?)

353 Red Base2

BASE COLOUR:

The base of the 353 GREEN variants came in three colours, black (shared with the Blue version), olive green and light green. There are some references to a white or cream version but this is tbc.

Shado 2 Green base variants
Black, olive green and light green bases

WHEELS:

The GREEN Shado 2 model had 6 wheel variations. The earliest models had brown wheels presumably to simulate a mud caked appearance and then after military models such as 692 Leopard Tank and 683 Chieftain tank were introduced the green wheel variants, which were similar to those used on these models, were introduced.

353 Wheel variations

All the larger wheels were 16mm in diameter and the smaller ones were 11.6mm. The 683 Chieftain tank arrived in 1972, sporting the larger green wheels and the 692 Leopard tank in 1975 with the smaller wheels.

Wheels 6L COMP.png
683 Chieftain Tank, 353 Shado 2 Mobile, 690 Scorpion tank and 691 Striker anti-tank vehicle
Wheels 6S COMP.png

692 Leopard tank and 353 Shado 2 Mobile

WHEELS:

The Green 352 Shado 2 had seven wheel different wheels. The most common large wheels were made in two shades of brown and two shades of green. Later models used a mixture of the large wheels and smaller ones, again in two shades of green and the final version had the small wheel type only.

TRACKS:

Early variants had silver tracks and later versions could have either silver or black ones. The BLUE variants always had black. The six small wheel version used the smaller diameter 672 Leopard tank tracks as the standard size ones were too big.

Tracks COMP.png
Silver and black standard tracks and smaller black size for six smaller wheeled version

BASES:

The base of the model changed early on in the production run. The first bases had six holes on the rear stanchions and no internal strengtheners.

rear view x 2.jpg
(L) Very early models had holes on the rear struts

Later green models including later versions of the brown wheeled type had a modified base. It looks a bit thicker and had two internal cross pieces. This looks like it’s for strengthening the base. Possibly because as the toy was heavy, if it was dropped or manhandled at the factory or at home this may have distorted the frame.

Rear side COMP.png
The base is extended a little and is thicker on later models
Bases only COMP.jpg
The base on the right is the later version, which did not have holes at the rear, and had two additional cross pieces to add strength

Another minor variant, spotted by Ian Senior, was different lettering on the plastic canopies. Early models had the letter ‘A’ up to (so far!) later models having an ‘F’ stamp. “B’s and ‘C’ have been seen so it’s likely that A to exist plus more? These can only be seen if the model is dismantled. These letters probably refer to different moulds used over the production run.

ALL GREEN :

An all green version is owned by a UK collector and is the first one seen by this site. If there are others please get in contact. Was it a Friday afternoon job when the black paint ran out or an actual variant?

All green COMP.png
Image: Gary Cooper

BLUE VARIANTS:

The later BLUE variant of the Shado 2 mobile was painted a metallic blue, closer to the actual model which was powder blue, but in no way accurate. The TV series had long finished and the change of colour could be charitably attributed to wanting to freshen up the model or more cynically because they had a lot of blue paint lying around that needed to be used. This version was released in 1978 and was around until the factory closed. BLUE Shado 2s are relatively rare.

Box blu model.png

All the variants had black roofs and missile bases, white interiors and a  silver front grill. The most common variant had six large black wheels, a black base and green Shado 2 stickers

353 B Side.JPG
353 B Front Back.png
353 B Top3.png
353 B Top4.jpg
353 B Bottom.JPG

Other variants had two large and four small wheel combinations, these could be green and would have a light green base or black with a black base.

Bases Blue COMP.png
BLUE variants could have black or light green bases

All the larger wheels were 16mm in diameter and the smaller ones were 11.6mm.

Wheels Blue COMP.png

The last variants had no Shado 2 stickers presumably because they had run out of them. Although blue stickers are on sale nowadays these were never used on the original models.

The five known BLUE variants are shown below. Note the last one had a lighter blue colour and no stickers. The wheel variants are clearly being produced to use up existing stocks before the factory closure.

353 Blue_Var2.png

The first missile used on the GREEN version was the red and white version. The BLUE versions used the yellow and black version. The missiles were the same as the ones used with the 100 FAB one and the 361 Galactic and War chariots.

missiles COMP.png

ODDITIES AND RARITIES:

LATER MISSILE PLATFORM VARIANT:

A pre-production technical drawing from an ISOSHADO member has recently surfaced showing a Blue Shado 2 fitted with the later missile platform. This platform was used on the 361 Zygon War Chariot and the 368 Zygon Marauder. The part started life as a Meccano piece number 460.

Copy of original Dinky Design document Image: ISOSHADO

There are a number of dates on the drawing referring to previous iterations since the original (?) was created on 20th April 1970. The colours specified are, blue body , black base, black roof with black tracks, in fact the only difference to the most common blue 353 version was a yellow interior specified which was normally white. Like the 361 War Chariot, the missile base evolved from an all metal version to an all plastic one, cheaper to manufacture and readily available. Its likely that this Shado 2 was a final version, designed but not put into production before the factory closed. Here’s a photo mock up of what it would have looked like. The only technical modification would have been to change the fitting on the roof to accept the new missile launcher mounting.

Photo mock up of a preproduction 353 version

ADDITIONAL COLOUR VARIANTS:

The Dinky 1978 trade catalogue featured a WHITE variant of the Shado Mobile but this was never commercially released.

White version3.png
CODE 3 version Shado 2

According to the Great Book of Dinky Toys, two colour variants were rescued from the Binns Road factory by Mike Richardson, a sand coloured and a light green metallic version. In the book there is a reference to a yellow plastic underpan for the Shado 2 which is possibly attached to the the green version below.

These models were later sold at Christie’s in July 2002.

Sand coloured3.jpg
Two colour samples of later green wheeled models from The Great Book of Dinky Toys
Sand coloured 353 edt.jpg
Image: Martin Gainsford

TROOP TRANSPORTER:

A Dinky Shado 2 Troop Transporter prototype using a Shado 2 body with the rear cut down to accept purpose made metal canopy. The model had a machine gun (?) mount on the roof and was painted in a military green & black camouflage. There are two  figures in the cab and decals. Model sold by Vectis Auctions.

Prototype Tropp Transporter.png
Prototype based on 353 Shado Mobile sold by Vectis Auctions

SHADO CONTROL:

A prototype or possibly a one-off special has been sent in by Will, whose Uncle Eddie worked for Dinky in the late 60’s and early 70’s.  He gave Will a new version of the Shado 2 Mobile in 1976, which had a radar dish in place of the firing rocket, although they both had the same base. The radar could flip in and out of the roof just like the rocket.

Prototype COMP2
Image: Will

Leopard tank wheels and even tracks were used on some of the last 353s so this modification is not an unexpected try out for a new version although the play value of a firing rocket versus a radar was probably why it never went into production.

Prototype COMP 3
Image: Will

In the TV series, there was a Shado 2 Control with a radar dish, so it’s understandable that a Dinky  would look at creating this new version. They appear to have used the radar from the 696 Leopard Anti-Aircraft Tank (1975-1980), with a bit chopped off the end of the radar receiver.

shado and 696 COMP

CAVEAT EMPTOR:  LET THE BUYER BEWARE! Only one of these 353s was made and the owner has said he will not be selling it any time soon! So if one of these Shado Controls pops up on eBay or any other auction site then it’s a Code 3 and any price paid should reflect that. 

Follow this link here to see some CODE 3 builds from contributors to this site.

BOXES:

From 1971 to 1980 three box types were used for the model. The first box was a pictorial card box featuring a graphically illustrated model and instructions.

Box COMP .png
Shado 2 1st box
Packing piece and instructions

The second box was a bubble pack with a blue or white base.

box bubble 6.jpg
box bubble blue base.jpg

Later bubble boxes got the Health and Safety bug with multiple messages asking small boys not to fire missiles at their siblings. That would have worked.

box bubble blue base2.jpg
bubble base 1 white edt

Initially the bubble box base had lid removing instructions, then in later versions these were omitted. Note also the base card template changes from square to semi-circular holes.

bubble base bottoms COMP

Different fonts and sizes were used on the bubble box bases.

box bubble variations COMP.png

And the final box was the cardboard hanging boxed used for the green and the blue variants, the latter only being packed in this box. The polystyrene insert was made in one piece and snapped in half to fit.

Box Window green .jpg
Box Window Poly .jpg
Box Window Blue .jpg

The window box above featured a lunar scene although the Shado 2 was Earth based. The rear of the box also featured the moon but this time with the 351 Interceptor which was Moon based.

box bubble back.jpg

ACCESSORY PACKS:

Pack 031 had 12 spare tracks and Pack 755/756 had 6 spare rockets.

Accessory packs.jpg

CATALOGUES:

Although released in 1971, it did not feature in the catalogue until the following year and was ever present till the last consumer catalogue release in 1979. The BLUE variant was never featured presumably as existing photography, featuring a GREEN variant,  was used in the last catalogues.

Catalogue UK 1972.png
Dinky 1972 consumer catalogue
1973 UK C 351_352_353.png
Dinky 1973 UK consumer catalogue
1974 UK T 102_351_352_353.png
Dinky 1974 UK consumer catalogue
1975 UK C 351_352_353.jpg
Dinky 1975 UK Catalogue
1976 UK C US C 351_353_602.png
Dinky 1976 UK consumer catalogue
1977 UK T 101_351_353_357_358_359_360_602.png
Dinky 1977 UK trade catalogue
1977 UK C 351_353_359_360.jpg
Dinky 1977 UK consumer catalogue

In the 1978 trade catalogue the Shado 2 appeared in a all white paint job which was never commercially released. The consumer catalogue of the same year reverted the model back to its usual green livery.

1978 UK T 353_361_362_367_602.png
Dinky 1978 trade catalogue
1978 UK C 351_353.jpg
Dinky 1978 UK consumer catalogue
1979 UK T 353_361_362_364_367.png
Dinky 1979 consumer catalogue

ADVERTS:

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Dinky Ad 6.jpg

Ed Bishop, who starred in U.F.O. as Colonel Ed Straker was employed to market the Dinky Toys licensed from the series but not strangely the 352 Ed Straker’s Car.

Ed bishop 351 353.jpg
Dinky Ad 1972.png
Advert 1972

216 thoughts on “353: Shado 2 Mobile”

  1. Pingback: 353 Shado 2 Mobile – the rarest version? – Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials
  2. Pingback: DINKY 353 SHADO 2 MOBILE – Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials

  3. Hello Shado 2 collector, I am one too. And have a quick question for you, where did they stow or put the extra missile on the bubble and later the shelf cellophane box types? I have never seen the extra missile displayed other than lately on only two examples and still not sure if that is the way it was displayed. Due to they were from the same owner. I really appreciate your response on this question. Thank you for listening! Respectfully
    Matt Fellow shado 2 collector

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    1. Hi Matt, A very interesting question but I don’t think I can give you a definitive answer. The 353s I purchased had one missile attached to the rocket launcher and the other loose or taped (by the seller) in the box. I believe the bubble pack versions had the missile(s) taped to the underneath of the base whilst the window boxes had space to tape the missile(s) to the polystyrene or insert the missile(s) in the gap between the back and bottom of the polystyrene inner. Where have you seen them displayed? Cheers Kevin

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    2. I have a Shado 2 in bubble top that I received xmas 1973 or 1974. One missile was in the firing position and I remember not being able to find the spare until I gave it a shake. Rattle rattle. The spare was inside – just turn the flip top round a bit whilst holding the shado upside down and out it dropped. I have kept the spare inside ever since. Whether all were like this or not, who knows?

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      1. Hi Martin,

        Thank you for letting me know where they kept the spare one on the bubble pack type. I remember myself very faintly too. Do you by chance know where they kept it on the all cardboard box type? I think, not sure, that they also were inside the vehicle too. What is neat is the final cellophane box or window box form. It was taped, as if firing out along the styrofoam. I have seen three examples from different dealers/countries. Thank you for sharing friend!
        Respectfully,
        Matt fellow collector

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      2. Hi Matt,
        Sorry can’t help with the box version. The only boxed dinky I remember getting was the 104 SPV and I think the spare missile was loose in the box. Can’t really be sure though as it was Xmas 1970 and I was only 7 then! It was, however, the shortest lived of my dinkys as the rear track unit came away from the body within about 10 mins of me getting it out the box.
        For an answer for missile placement we really need someone who worked on the line. My bubble box is the untabbed, taped on version; so if missiles were put in at boxing up time I can see them as being taped to the inner surface of box or bubble, or as with mine shoved inside the shado. Different people could have put the missiles in, so there may be no definitive answer.
        They do fly a looooong way though!
        Cheers
        Martin

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      3. Hi Martin,

        Thank you for your quick response to my questions!!! I really appreciate it friend! O’boy, do the fly far! The spring in the mechanism is engineered wonderfully. Even after nearly half a century. These models were created with such love, care and thought. Nothing like the poorly engineered and even less thought of today’s toys. I really miss the creativity and deep thought of yesterday’s products. What the heck happened? I better stay focused on our hobby or I will write volumes on disappointing toys. I will say that there is nothing like the weight and feel of heavy die-cast. Built to last and has style. Will we ever see Atlas Dinky create a Shado 2 again? Maybe they will enlarge the radar. I will keep dreaming for now buddy.
        Respectfully,
        Matt

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    3. Matt theres a couple on ebay uk at the moment that are both the hanging box variety. Both have the spare missile taped in. One has BOTH missiles taped in. Item numbers 401625593105 and 401625593279. (Or search dinky 353 and sort highest to lowest price – one is £330 and the other just a few places down i think for£265)

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      1. Hi Martin,

        Thanks for the tip on eBay friend. The order of how to affix the extra missile seems totally out of order. I agree with you about most probably just tossed it inside the vehicle.
        Regards,
        Matt

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  4. Howdy Kevin,
    I saw 2 examples from a seller in the UK and one from Italy. Both had the extra missile displayed taped as if they were already fired from the launcher. Here are the pics friend. I will attempt to attach them.
    Regards,
    Matt fellow Shado 2 collector

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      1. Hi Kevin,
        Great! I will attempt to attach pics however, I am a Neanderthal with technology! So here goes buddy.

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  6. Howdy Kevin,
    I believe I was successful in my caveman attempts to send the pics buddy.
    Regards
    Matt Fellow Shado 2 collector

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  7. Hi Kevin,
    Another question, can you tell if they taped across the missile to hold it on the styrofoam or is it doubled taped on the back of the missile? I really can’t see it to well friend. Thank you!
    Really appreciate it!
    Regards,
    Matt

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  8. Hi Kevin,
    I hope you received the pics finally? I do have another quick question about the extra missile. You mentioned that the bubble pack type you believe had the extra missile taped underneath the base. Was it underneath the vehicle base or the cardboard box base since, it was indented on the bottom for such possible items? Also, where was the extra missile in first version cardboard box type as well friend? I do appreciate it buddy! Many thanks!!!!
    Regards,
    Matt
    P. S.
    That was my quick question I’m sure you probably don’t want to read my long questions 😀

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    1. Hi Alan,
      Not sure but try Steve flowers website for reproduction parts for corgi and dinky. Maybe Acme 3000. Too friend.
      Matt

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    2. Hi Alan,
      It is Matt again, maybe you can ask these two reproduction dealers. One is called “Toy Recovery USA. But he is located in Australia. Funny right? The other guy is in England and he is Steve flowers. There is also a third one called Acme 3000. I will try to attach the eBay screen shot. But I probably can’t. Don’t know if it will work. Just ask them too. I will for you as well. Hopefully, they get one of ours.
      Regards,
      Matt

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      1. Hi thanks I do use acme and Steve but I have never asked them just assumed they don’t as when it shows all bits for shadow never the little springs sham as I need 11 but will ask them Thanks Alan

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    3. On Sun, Jan 27, 2019 at 12:45 PM Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials wrote:

      > Alan gibbs commented: “Hi does anyone no wear I can by the springs for the > flip roof on the shadow 2 Thanks Alan” >

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      2. Hi Alan,
        Just sent you a reply. However not sure if you are receiving them? I’m a Neanderthal on texting with technology buddy. So just Incase you haven’t received them. The guy downunder said he might have one. So if he does just sent me your email address and I shall forward to him. His name is Tony.
        Kind regards
        Matt fellow collector

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    6. Hey Alan I just remembered, the dinky galactic war chariot has the exact rocket mechanism as the Shado 2. Maybe get one of those and take it apart and use it to replace yours. Matt

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  10. Hi Alan,
    I just remembered something for it.
    Try to get a dinky galactic war chariot. It uses exact same rocket mechanism unit.
    Matt

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  11. Hi Alan,

    Steve Flowers just responded but no luck with him. However, Tony did say he had one laying around somewhere.
    Regards,
    Matt

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  12. Hi, Seriously great blog and resource. I have 5 in various variants. One is original, I am refurbishing the others as they were so beaten up. I actually think the wear is a great thing as it means that the models were truely used and obviously loved. I myself never owned one as a kid but I remember stairing longingly at them on the shelf at a young age. Any idea on the best Drab Olive Colour?

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    1. Hi Mark, Thank you for your kind comment about the blog and I’m glad its been helpful. I agree that although ‘shop stock’ models are very desirable, a few knocks and scratches create character. Many of my models have obviously had fun during their long lives. Re your paint question Model Supplies do a Sherwood Green #75 which matches the green Shado2. http://www.model-supplies.co.uk/computer_matched_paints.htm and the Dinky Club also have a selection https://dinkyclub.com/dinky-toys-computer-matched-brush-paint-50ml-paints-453-c.asp. Also worth going to sites like Talk Model Toys for help and advice. I’m not an expert 🙂
      Cheers Kevin

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  13. Hi, another additional piece of information worth sharing ( I have photos if you need them) is that the rears on the Mobiles differed towards the end. Look at the blue/black variant you have on your site. It has the later rear end. The difference is the two vertical parts on the lower rear hull. Original production versions had a series of small vertical holes on the rear edges (see your images of the green Mobile at the top of your site). The last? production versions have these holes missing (see the all blue Mobile rear image) and it is also a lot more thicker e.g. they extended these vertical parts further backwards. I’m not sure why they did that as the first version is more accurate. Possible damage to the mould or it made it easier to produce. I havent been able to figure that one out. I do think though it may have been an attempt to alter the design to avoid copyright if Dinky had lost the rights to produce under licence?
    Cheers Shane

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    1. Hi Kevin
      Wow, your right kool! I just noticed it. It must be copyright or molding issues. Absolutely fantastic observation buddy!

      Regards,
      Fellow collector
      Matt

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      2. All good. I’m always curious about the subtle changes they did to the moulds and why. None of them seem to make any structural changes that I can see e.g. to make something more robust. They all seem to be after they stopped stamping the 21st Century mark although I think that logic doesn’t apply to the Captain Scarlet SPC which has it on all versions.
        Cheers
        Shane

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  14. Hi Shane,
    It also seems to have been a permanent molding change for any future Shado 2’s. Due to the forecasted 1980 models which were to be produced in desert tan colors. See the two models sold at Christie’s in 2002 on this blog.
    Regards,
    Matt

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  15. Hi Shane,

    One more observation, it also seems to be a return to the standard size road wheels to this vehicle. Thank God! At least they realized something positive from the original model. Never did fancy much the rekey dink small leopard tank road wheels on such a stout vehicle. It seemed off, if not just a engineering mistake. I’m of course basing this on the futuristic vehicles in the Christie’s photo.
    Regards,
    Matt

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  16. Hi Shane, Good spot! You are absolutely right, the rear of the bases can be different. In my collection the brown wheeled versions all have holes on the rear vertical struts whilst the green wheeled and the later blue bodied versions all have plain struts. The side angle of the castings are also slightly different. Thanks for sharing. Cheers Kevin

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    1. Howdy Shane and Kevin,
      I think the blog needs to update the different versions of missiles that were issued with Shado 2 vehicles. I have and also seen several orange and grey tipped missiles that are originals. Not reproductions either. Not sure, if they were intended for the other Anderson vehicles? But with one of my originals it came with a orange tipped type.
      Respectfully,
      Matt

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    2. Hi Matt
      My brown wheeled versions (white interiors) have the vertical struts with the holes. My green wheeled versions have the solid, thicker vertical struts. I think you are right that from the green wheeled version onwards (my green wheeled versions are all large wheels. I dont have any of the smaller road wheeled versions) seemed to have deleted the holes on the rear. Again I wish I knew WHY they did it. Seems a pointless alteration that really doesnt add anything to the vehicle other than to make it ‘different’.

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      1. Hi Shane,

        Yes, I agree about struts, it seems totally pointless! They could have made another alteration like enlarge the radar. That would have been nice! The radar is so small. I at first thought only it a switch only. Nice talking to you!
        Respectfully,
        Matt

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  17. Hi Kevin,
    Just to add to further comments on the holes that are molded to the rear struts. In my collection, it appears that only the original red cabin versions possess the holes on the struts. Strangely enough, I do have on white cabin version with a black roof that also contains it. I however, do not know if it was modified? I can only speak for my originals which I have always been in my keeping as a youth!
    Respectfully,
    Matt

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  18. Hi Matt A, Thanks for your insights. Regarding the missiles, I am going to revise this part as a number of new missile colour variants for not only the 353 Shado 2 but also the 360 War Chariots and and of course FAB1, which all had the same missile, have appeared. Where the production dates overlapped there is no reason why a missile used on one toy would not have been used on another.

    To your observation on Shado 2 holed struts, I have brown wheeled versions with red and white interiors and with green ridged and green and black smooth roofs. All of these have holed struts. None of my green wheeled or blue painted version s have holes. So I think the smooth version may have appeared when they swapped to green wheels. Cheers Kevin

    Update: Since I wrote this I’ve had a quick check on eBay and there are a number of brown versions with smooth rear struts. So I suppose we can say, holed struts are an indicator of an early version but any further evidence to define the actual changeover would be gratefully received.

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    1. Howdy Kevin,
      Thank you for clarifying the struts. And thank you for updating the missiles too friend. I Look forward to the changes and the great hobby conversations!
      Respectfully,
      Matt

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      1. Hi Shane,

        Totally agree pointless to make that alteration, should have enlarged the radar!
        Respectfully,
        Matt

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  19. Hi
    I just purchased a Mobile from France in near mint condition. However, this one is unusual in that there are two pilot figures in the cockpit seats. They sort of even look like the actual UFO space suits. Was there ever any versions made with pilots?
    Cheers
    Shane

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    1. Hi Shane To your question of figures, I have only see figures in the Shado from the prototype which was camouflaged. Which is on this blog website. Also, the new 2005 Gerry Anderson UFO Shado by product enterprise in a bluish with camo brown pattern. But it is not Dinky and is much larger than our beloved models. It sounds like a code 3 buddy? But I wonder what others will say? Regards, Matt

      On Fri, Mar 29, 2019 at 10:32 AM Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials wrote:

      > KO commented: “I’ve never seen a 353 with a pilot or two pilots! I think > this is a code 3 sorry! Cheers Kevin” >

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      1. Hi
        Yeah I figured it might have been a code 3. I have to say the pilots actually look ok in it but I’ll probably replace the cockpit with a new one given its the white cockpit which I have an original spare.
        Cheers

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      2. Hi Shane and Kevin,

        I just a comment but don’t know if it sent. So here it is again. I know it is very disappointing that dinky didn’t make any figures to accompany the vehicle. However, I use the corgi mechanics which are around to 1/43 rd scale from the Holmes wrecker vehicle, motorway vehicle and racetrack garage personnel etc. They are a perfect combination I believe. They come in blue, white or green jumpsuits/overalls and are excitingly busy working. I pick them up on eBay for around 12$ each. Try them out. I have a motor pool of several Shado’ s with mechanic crews servicing them and it is a brilliant scene I believe. So give them a try friends. Best Regards, Matt

        On Fri, Mar 29, 2019 at 6:29 PM Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials wrote:

        > Shane commented: “Hi Yeah I figured it might have been a code 3. I have to > say the pilots actually look ok in it but I’ll probably replace the cockpit > with a new one given its the white cockpit which I have an original spare. > Cheers” >

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      3. Hello again guys, Sorry I can’t seem to figure out how to attach pics to blog. So send me your emails please. Matt

        Like

  21. Hi Shane and Kevin,

    I know it was disappointing that dinky didn’t make pilots or drivers for the mobiles, however I use the corgi Holmes wrecker mechanics to service my vehicles. Or any other garage mechanics they made. They are almost to perfect scale around 1/43 and wear blue, white or green jump suits/overalls. They work pretty well my friends. I will send you a pic or two on my motor pool
    In action.
    Best Regards,
    Matt

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  22. Hi Kevin,
    I found your email, you had sent it awhile back friend. So I will try to send you pics bud. Just needs yours Shane.
    Hope you like the pic.
    Enjoy,
    Matt

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  23. Re: all green variant. Theres one on ebay as at 7/4/19 item number 183765291558. Theres no picture of the missile base but otherwise looks identical to the one you show (white interior, dark green wheels, black tracks and crosshead screws). The seller has several different variants for sale.

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    1. Hi Martin,
      Very interesting friend. I have seen that taped to the polystrene or styrofoam on several from the UK and an Italian seller. So, I don’t think they copied each other on that. So, I reckon it must be genuine. Like you said, until we speak with someone who actually worked on the assembly line we can only speculate about it. That is the fun part, the hunt of truth in our hobby.
      Regards,
      Matt

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    2. Hi Martin, Thanks for heads up – I’m actually looking for even more green! The version I want to confirm the credentials for has a green ‘air intake’ at the front – usually black on the green 353 and silver on the blue one. Cheers Kevin

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      1. Oh yes. Missed that bit. Total greenyness required. I’ll keep a lookout during my hunt for cheap ones to repaint in series colours.
        I have noticed that cross head screws only seem to start appearing with dark green wheels and that nearly all the blue 353s have cross heads (and most of them look like posidrives). On the 351 I’ve looked at roughly half have slot screwheads whereas on the 359/360 I havn’t seen any with slot heads ( although the space 1999 catacombs site says the earliest models of the 359 did have slotheads). I’m not sure when dinky started using cross heads but it must have been 74 or 75.

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  24. Howdy To All,

    Your earlier comment on the all green versions is also supported by the model seen in the last runs of Shado’s. See the Christie’s pics. It depicts an all green metallic air intake version. However, the chassis is yellow and made of plastic. We can only speculate what is the color of the desert painted vehicle that lies next to it.
    Regards,
    Matt

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  25. Howdy To All,

    I also noticed that the tread or tracks on the all metallic green version is a type used for the leopard tanks. But I thought it only fit the mainly the small wheeled versions? That was the main reason for changing them. Besides, trying to use up old stock. And the desert tan version has standard black tracks like the later green ones.

    Regards,
    Matt

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  26. hi. just started collecting Dinky again, and manged to pick up a nice boxed green one. On E-bay a seller has got a white one for sale in a bubble box. According to your site it was never released. I guess its a repro?

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    1. Hi Geraint,

      Affirmative buddy! They never produced a white version, other than just a prototype. But they do look darn kool! I wish to acquire one too soon. Happy collecting!!!
      Regards,
      Matt

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  27. Welcome back to the world of Dinky collecting, it will make you much happier but a lot poorer 🙂 ! To answer your question, yes the white Shado 2 was never commercially released and to be fair the eBay seller has said it is a ‘restored’ i.e. code 3 version. The asking price is very high!. Hopefully you’ll continue find this site helpful and please ask away if you need more information. Cheers Kevin

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  28. Hi – just a query re the rare all green version. I’m in New Zealand and recently purchase a Shado 2 that appears to be the all green version. It is boxed and has yellowed plastic – but vehicle is in excellent as new condition. Has 2 missiles – white with black tip. When I look into the base its painted green – and not the unpainted silver of other ones I have. The plinth is the 1975 one with the “do not point missiles at people”. I purchased it from an x military person who was stationed in Singapore in early 70’s and collected Dinky toys. When I look into the interior its painted green – I have another green version which just has metallic inside. So my boxed one appears to be another ‘all green version.” Does anyone know what other ID features confirm the rare all green version. Cheers Martin Williams

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  29. Hi Martin, thank you for your information about your 353. The usual base colour for the 353 is a light green but there are later all green and black base versions which are rarer (see above). I have personally never seen an unpainted base so this is also unusual. When you say the interior is green is this all green? There will always be overspray but as the models were mounted on rotating stalks as they moved through the paint spray area it would again be unlikely that all of the interior surfaces would be painted green. Perhaps other readers can also advise here? If you have any pictures that you could share that would be great! Cheers Kevin

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  30. Hi KO – I have sent an email with photos of what appears to be the rare all green version – as mentioned my other 2 models have the silver interior base (when you look inside the missile bay) – this one has green painted surfaces. Cheers

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    1. Hi Martin,

      Yes, I concur with Kevin that a painted green interior is indeed a very rare, if not, an unusual accent to the vehicle. I too would enjoy seeing a pic. Please send me one friend. Most are just over sprayed from the factory. Not intentionally painted. Also very strange that you mentioned a silver chassis?
      Regards,
      Matt a fellow collector

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      1. Hi Matt – thanks for your comments – have send a set of pictures to KO using the DCMTVSPACE@virginmedia.com email address. I’m sure he can post the pictures as I’m struggling this end. If you have any handy hints on how to attach pictures to this forum let me know, whenever I try just gives a link and nothing else (see below).

        IMG_20190926_105358

        FYI the silver chassis was probably not the best description – I was meaning my other Shado 2 mobiles have a unpainted chassis (when you look down into the interior – whereas the one I have is painted green – reason why I thought it was one of the rare ‘all green versions.’ Anyway hoping KO get my email and photos and post them or provides some insight to the model I have. Cheers fellow collector – Martin Williams (Gisborne, New Zealand).

        Like

      2. Hi Martin,
        Sorry mate, I’m not very technologically inclined. So, I forwarded to Kevin several of my jewels of pics of my collections. Would love to see yours friend. I just hope that the unethical way of trying to attach my pics worked? I am hard headed/old school and tried several different avenues that are probably creative but not technically correct! But I have faith. Can’t wait to see yours and Kevin’s too!
        Regards,
        Fellow collector,
        Matt

        Like

    1. Hi Kevin and Martin, Hi fellows, its good to hear from you guys. Anything new? I’m not having any problems with pics. How are your collections going? I’m still looking for a code 3 white Shado 2. So if you come across any please let me know guys. Many thanks! Kind regards, Matt

      On Sun, Nov 17, 2019 at 6:46 AM Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials wrote:

      > Martin Williams commented: “Hi KO – having problems sending photos to the > site email: dinkytvspace@virginmedia.com. Is this still current? If you > want just reply to me and I’ll attach photos – my email is > martin.chris.williams@gmail.com or send an email contact address – cheers > M” >

      Liked by 1 person

      Reply

  32. Hi Martin
    Many thanks for your photos which I’ve now received. I don’t think it is possible to upload photos directly to the site.

    Your 353 looks great but unfortunately its not the ‘all green version’ I refer to on my site. This version has the ‘air intake’ at the front painted green and not the usual black. Your base interior is unusual but could well be overspray, its difficult to tell from the photos and probably only properly visible if the model is dissembled.

    I misread your original post and thought that you were referring to the outside and visible part of the base section which on yours is green and not unpainted (my error). What you have is a late model green version, one of the last versions before the blue one was released and in great condition. Possibly worth investing in a reproduction bubble cover to set it off.

    Thanks again for taking the time to contribute, this is the only way the site is going to become more accurate. Cheers Kevin

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    1. Hi I’m trying to find out how much my one is worth as I would like to sell it . It seems there Is a massive variations in the prices people are asking .
      Any help would be greatly appreciated
      Teresa

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  33. Hi Matt, if you send me your email via the site address dcmtvspace (at) virginmedia.com I can send you the images. Better to contact me via this address rather than reply on this site with your email address as it can be picked up by spam bots!

    Cheers

    Kevin

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    2. Hi Kevin,
      Please just email me friend the pics. I sent you another text, don’t know if it sent. Will try to send you a couple of my collections. Send me your email too buddy.
      Regards,
      Matt

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    5. Hi Kevin,
      I just sent you several pics friend. I hope you received them. I tried several unethical/creative ways technology speaking. Please forward them to Martin, if successful my earlier efforts.
      Regards,
      Matt

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  34. Hi guys I buy and restore shado2 and have just perchesd 4 two smooth roof two rigged one of which is white should have by tuesday

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  35. Hi I also have a Shado 2 Dinky Toy with two original missiles . It’s all green with light green base . I’m keen to sell this . It’s in near mint condition , bubble top has yellowed , I can send photos

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  36. Hi I’ve been reading all the messages regarding the shadow 2 dinky toy . I have one myself , was my husbands as a child and it has two missiles and is green with light green base . Do you know how much these go for . Mine is in mint condition bubble boxed but the top clear bubble has yellowed over the years . Would love some info on this model, very hard to know the value of this .
    Kind regards
    Teresa

    Sent

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    1. Hi Teresa,
      I normally don’t like to price things, but conservatively speaking, if it is mint and in the bubble pack from the period of mid 70’s aka 1975ish , from my experience on eBay without pictures to see conditions , it could go for anywhere from 150$-200$and up. Depends of course on condition and wear. I hope I helped.
      Respectfully,
      Fellow collector

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      1. Thank you for your advice , really kind of you to help , one last question, many people restore these back to their original mint condition , the one I have is already in very good condition but the top of the bubble box has yellowed and has a few tears cracks in the packaging , would it be worth me getting a new top , or selling as it is . I’m just not sure of the best option . Before selling mine .
        Many Thanks
        Teresa

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      2. Hi Teresa,

        For the most part, collectors like to buy original not reproduction. So it may look old or damaged slightly but for the collector eyes it is acceptable, usually if slightly damaged. Condition is important however, original is best!
        Good luck!
        Fellow Collector

        Like

      3. Hi Teresa,

        Just a few more words of advice. After you sell it you may want to pack the the bubble box separately from the model. One in bubble wrap in one small box the other in another box then, place both inside the actual shipping box using a good amount of bubble wrap or styrofoam peanuts. That way no further damage to the bubble top box. I requested one in the past that I had purchased and it arrived safely. Shipping was a little more but well worth it as a Collector! Good luck once again,
        Respectfully,
        Fellow collector,
        Matt

        Like

  37. Hi Kevin,

    I received a interceptor with the most unusual hue of metallic green. It appears not repainted and most original. However, the shade or hue is a slightly darker type. It is missing decals. Which can give us a window into the past of its original color/hue. But you can see even over time the color and hue is exactly the same, just a richer hue where the decals were once placed. Which makes perfect since being hidden from sunlight etc. Very interesting to say the lest. Have you ever seen this shade in your great knowledge and experience of our precise models? I appreciate your insight friend.
    Kind regards,
    Matt A.
    P.S.
    I will try to attach pics. If not here to your other email address.

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  38. Hello all,

    Firstly and foremost may i pay respect to all contributors and i’m dead chuffed (not sure if this is an American site or English as i see some prices given in dollars but spelling in English – colour) that i found the site. I am using it as my go-to bible whilst at Toy Fairs to see who’s telling true on rarities and who’s tellin’ Porky Pies! I have a few questions to ask on various models but will try and keep them limited to the correct feeds so in connection to the SHADO 2, can someone please enlighten me on the following….. Having seemingly appeared, at least in recollection to have noticed MANY more first issue bases (drilled struts on the back) than flat roofs, i assumed in my head that the flat roof variant finished way before the first issue base but i have recently seen a flat black roof on a second release base and i am certain of its originality. Therefore i ask if anyone can tell me if i’m wrong, what best guess percentage is the split of flat roof to second (un-strengthened) base and if i’m correct, is this a peculiarly uncommon variant. Thanks again and LOVE the site.
    Daryl

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    1. Hi Daryl,

      Firstly, welcome to the site friend! Secondly, this site has many fellow collectors from around the world. Some are from like myself US and Australia which use dollars of course. But Kevin’s site is based I believe from UK. That would explain the rainbow of colors or colours. Lastly, to your original inquiry, I’m not an expert like Kevin however I will throw in my 2 bits. I concur also, that the flat and even black flat roofs must have been finished long before the strengthening of the bases. Also, another way to check is what color or colour are your cabin seats? Should still be red and road wheels brown with gray/silver tracks friend. Those were the very first types as you know probably. Once again, great question that Kevin might enlighten you further. And welcome to this outstanding site for our Shado’s.
      Respectfully,
      Fellow Collector,
      Matt A.

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  39. Hi Daryl, Thanks for your support and fyi its an English site! Regarding your questions about flat roofs, both green and black, all the ones I have seen are on the brown wheels variant and with the first base version, with the drilled struts. The flat roof versions are less common and the black version the rarest. It’s possible that the flat roof was the very first version and it was replaced with the ribbed version because the latter was more prone to bending but this is a theory only and so many be incorrect. Your version with a black flat roof and a second variation base is unusual and may well be genuine but it would be easy to recreate so I don’t think it would have much impact on its value.

    The research above is based on the models I’ve seen (quite a lot!) but so many were made its still just a snapshot. Perhaps other readers can add to this. Cheers Kevin

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  41. Hi Paul, If the ‘air intake’ above the cabin is green (it’s usually black) then this seems to be a rare variant if you’re sure it’s not a repaint. There is a picture of this variant above. Cheers Kevin

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      1. That’s definitely a rarer variant. I’d really like to see some pics if possible. Could you send them via dcmtvspace(at) virgin media.com? Thanks Kevin

        Like

  42. I collected ALL the different variants around 35 years ago when they were £5-10 each (blue ones were £12), I got most of these (never saw the blue one with stickers on), but there is also an early Third Base design that’s quite different (internally) to the pair shown.

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    1. Hi Ian, Amazing prices, even allowing for inflation that would still be around £15-£30. Are any other variants you collected missing from this site? I’d like to keep these pages as accurate as possible. And if you could send a pic or two of the missing base design that would would be brilliant. Thank you for sharing this information. Cheers Kevin

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  43. Pingback: Christie’s Action July 2002 – Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials

  44. Hi, my uncle used to work for dinky back in the late 60’s and early 70’s and every birthday and Christmas I got a new dinky toy, so I have a large collection of all the Gerry Anderson series toys, captain scarlet, thunderbirds, UFO, space1999, but did you know that their was a prototype shado command mobile made, from what my uncle told me they used the rocket launcher and instead of the missile they install a radar dome which looked like the real one from the tv series and it rotated inside like the standard shado 2, so when you look at it, it looks like a shado 2 but when you turn the switch the roof flips and there is the radar dome, his son now has his collection

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    1. Hi Will,
      Thanks for sharing this. A lot of us wished we’d had relatives in really important jobs like your uncle had :-), your GA collection must be fantastic.
      To be honest I have never heard of the the prototype you mention and its interesting because its more accurate as a model than the commercially produced version, which although the right overall design, had a firing rocket that had nothing to do with the TV Series prop. I suspect though that the missile firing version had more play value than the radar prototype you describe and so it never went into production. I would love to use a picture of this variant on the site if that was at all possible! Cheers Kevin

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  45. Hi Kevin,

    I love the idea that they made a prototype with the Radar instead of the missile on the Shado 2. Always thought they could have and should have easily made a command version. I always thought as I mentioned before, that the flip switch/supposed radar, was inherently too small! I didn’t even know it was a radar until your website had mentioned it! I certainly can’t wait to see it as well. I figured they could easily change it out for something else like a decent size radar or other purposes. Did you receive yet a picture from Will? And if so, when will you post it friend?

    Respectfully,
    Matt Adams

    Liked by 1 person

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  47. Good morning everyone, I have a Dinky Shado 2 that has lost the spring of the rocket firing mechanism. Could anyone please give me the measurements of this spring? Thanks Marco

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  48. Hi Kevin,

    Are there any other views that you have of the prototype Shado 2 Troop Transporter? And have you any pictures yet of Will’s Uncle prototype?
    Many thanks,
    Matt

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      1. Thank you friend! I will cross my fingers too.

        On Tue, Jun 23, 2020 at 5:54 AM Dinky Toys: TV Shows, Space and Specials wrote:

        > KO commented: “Hi Matt, Sadly the answer to both your questions is no but > still hopeful for the latter! Cheers Kevin” >

        Like

      2. I have been in contact with my uncle and he will take a few pictures of it and I will then send them to you.. question!! where do I send it to??
        Will

        Like

  49. Hi Will,

    That would be outstanding!!!! I believe I can speak for all of us die hard Shado 2 collectors!!! Truly appreciate it friend! Looking forward to your pics!!!
    Respectfully,
    Matt a Fellow Shado 2 collector

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  50. Hi Kevin and Will,

    Once again I want to say thank you for the pics of that pretty cool prototype!!! It is really brilliantly done!! Yes, I concur that they combined the radar from the German 696 flak tank. Obviously to save $. I want to make my own code 3 of it now. I hope to see the pics of yours on the website under further prototypes. Really appreciate it!!!
    Regards,
    Matt Adams

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