'Robot Converts to Jeep with Pull Back Action'
This cost reduced, more plastic version of the Dashbots Jeep is practically identical to the more metal build version. The main differences are the front of the robot's upper body is cast in green plastic not painted metal (less glossy) and being lighter. Chipped paint on that body section is a good indication.
The Jeep stands out as the most cobbled together of the Dashbots. While it follows the same mode change process as the other Dashbots cars, the reuse of the plastic front wheels sees them look way too small in the wheel arches. Although not confirmed, it's possible the sculpt originally came from a Japanese model kit as was the case for the Dune Buggy and Ferrari. Whomever manufactured them may have decided not to fabricate an extra set of front wheels just for the Jeep, or Merry Yard may have asked them not to in a cost saving measure.
There's also an unused socket in the Jeep's rear tray section. It's likely this would have been intended for a mounted machine gun making
it not dissimilar to its real world counterpart. As an accessory was never included it further hints that this Dashbot was possibly adapted from an existing toy or model kit.
It's a very solid toy with a decent amount of diecast metal making up the top half of the car. The Jeep was released a number of times and eventually in a cost reduced, all plastic version; see separate page on this site.
Like
all Dashbots, the Jeep features a powerful pull back, wind up motor that competently sends it dashing across the floor.
See Dashbots main index for further details.
Region Codes Used: US United States - Location codes only shown where items were known to be released.
This list is accurate yet likely to be incomplete. If you are able to confirm release in other regions please get in contact.
Dashbots US Merry Yard & Upright 1985 to early 90s
Faction The Jeep was listed on the first release, tray packaging as allied with the 'Evil Robots'.
Misleading Packaging The blister card text shows '3 IN 1' for what is clearly a two mode robot; unless they count the motor feature as one of the three. There were two blister card releases and while the second card still boasts 'Stick-On Decals', they were only supplied with the first carded version.
Stamped '(c) 1985 Merry Yard Toy Corp Pat. Pending Made in Taiwan'.
