The MiniArt 35426 K-52 Trailer with Power Unit PE-95 is a 1/35 scale model kit that represents a WWII-era K-52 utility trailer paired with the PE-95 power unit, a portable generator used by U.S. military forces. This kit highlights the importance of logistical and engineering support in wartime operations, as the PE-95 was often deployed to supply power for communication equipment, lighting, and field operations. MiniArt’s reputation for intricate detailing is fully evident in this kit, offering an accurate and highly customizable model for dioramas or standalone builds.
Key Features:
- Scale: 1/35, perfect for displaying alongside other military vehicles or as part of a diorama.
- Highly Detailed K-52 Trailer:
- Includes fine details such as the trailer’s chassis, wheels, hitch, and side panels.
- Realistic weld seams, bolts, and wood-textured panels replicate the original trailer’s rugged construction.
- Authentic PE-95 Power Unit:
- Accurately reproduces the portable generator with detailed engine components, housing, and control panels.
- Includes intricate details like wiring, exhaust pipes, and fuel tanks.
- Photo-Etched (PE) Parts:
- PE components enhance precision for delicate features such as the grille, brackets, and clamps.
- Realistic Tires:
- Features molded rubber or plastic tires with accurate tread patterns and sidewall detailing.
- Optional Open or Closed Access Panels:
- The generator’s access panels can be displayed open to showcase internal details or closed for a transport-ready appearance.
- External Accessories and Stowage:
- Includes optional tools, jerry cans, and stowage items to enhance realism and customization.
- Chains and additional towing accessories are provided for a field-deployed look.
- Clear Parts for Lights and Gauges:
- Clear plastic components for lights and control gauges add a realistic touch.
- Decals and Marking Options:
- Provides markings for various U.S. Army units, allowing customization for different theaters of operation.
- Includes stencil details for the generator and trailer.
- Instruction Manual:
- Comprehensive instructions with detailed assembly steps and a painting guide, helping modelers achieve an authentic finish.
Historical Significance:
The PE-95 generator, mounted on the K-52 trailer, was a critical piece of support equipment during WWII, ensuring that power was readily available for communication devices, searchlights, and other essential military equipment in remote locations. These trailers were commonly seen alongside larger vehicles and in field encampments.
The MiniArt 35426 K-52 Trailer with Power Unit PE-95 is a finely crafted kit that celebrates the often-overlooked logistical elements of military operations. Its detailed construction and historical accuracy make it an excellent choice for modelers who enjoy building unique and specialized military equipment.
The Ben Hur K-52 trailer was a specialized two-wheeled trailer used by the United States military during World War II. Designed for the transportation of mobile field kitchens, it was officially designated the K-52 Kitchen Trailer and became an integral part of the logistical support for American and Allied forces. The trailer allowed for the preparation and distribution of hot meals to troops in the field, improving morale and sustaining the fighting effectiveness of soldiers during prolonged campaigns.
Design and Features
The K-52 trailer was based on the standard Ben Hur G-518 1-ton trailer but was specifically modified to house a fully equipped field kitchen. Constructed from durable steel, it featured a wooden cargo bed to support the weight of cooking equipment, fuel, and food supplies. The design prioritized functionality and mobility, ensuring it could be towed behind vehicles such as the 2½-ton GMC CCKW truck or the ¾-ton Dodge WC.
The trailer came equipped with essential kitchen equipment, including field stoves, food preparation surfaces, and storage compartments for utensils and cooking supplies. The stoves could be fueled by wood, coal, or gasoline, allowing for flexibility in various environments. A key feature of the K-52 was its retractable stabilizing legs, which provided a steady platform for cooking, even on uneven terrain. The trailer also included foldable shelves and racks for serving food and organizing supplies.
The entire setup was designed to be compact and portable, enabling rapid deployment and relocation. This was crucial for supporting mobile units engaged in fast-paced operations, where the ability to provide hot meals on short notice was vital.
Operational Use
The K-52 trailer was deployed across various theaters of World War II, from the beaches of Normandy to the islands of the Pacific. It played a critical role in maintaining troop morale, as hot meals were often the only comfort available to soldiers in harsh battlefield conditions. The trailer’s versatility allowed it to serve meals for large units, typically feeding up to 150 soldiers per session.
Its robust construction ensured it could withstand the rigors of combat zones, while its compact design allowed it to navigate rough terrain alongside advancing forces. The K-52 was often paired with mess personnel trained to operate under challenging conditions, ensuring that soldiers received consistent support.
Legacy
The Ben Hur K-52 trailer was more than just a piece of equipment; it symbolized the logistical ingenuity of the U.S. military during World War II. Its ability to provide a sense of normalcy through hot meals made it an essential tool in maintaining troop welfare and effectiveness. Today, the K-52 trailer remains a notable example of wartime engineering designed to meet both practical and human needs.
