Tonka Chevron Service Pickup with Tire Rack, Model 2973, Late 1970s

A pressed-steel Tonka pickup produced as a regional promotional model for Chevron service stations, dating to the late 1970s (approximately 1977–1980). The tan body carries a white two-door cab with a yellow-tinted windshield, a roof-mounted red emergency light, and a bold Chevron shield decal on the driver's door. The chrome-look grille and front bumper carry the embossed Tonka name, and the truck rides on white-hubbed XR-101 tires. The tailgate is operable and embossed Tonka at the rear; the underside is maker-marked Tonka as well.

Tonka assigned this truck the Model 2973 designation, situating it within the company's late-1970s "private label" promotional program in which large corporate accounts — gas station chains among them — could commission livery-specific runs distributed through their own retail channels rather than toy stores. The Chevron version circulated through service stations on a regional basis, which limits the pool of survivors with original components intact. A complete example requires the white removable plastic tire rack seated in the bed and three matching spare tires — the parts most frequently lost to play or attrition. This lot includes the bed rack and three additional XR-101 wheels. The Chevron decal is intact and free of peeling or bubbling.

CONDITION

Very Good. No remarkable damage. Yellowing to the plastic windshield and a couple of visible scuffs to the body, with some scratched paint consistent with display and light handling. Decal remains crisp and well-adhered.

DIMENSIONS / SPECIFICATIONS

• Overall: 6 1/2" H × 14 1/4" W × 6 1/4" D
• Weight: 3 lbs 6 oz
• Model Number: 2973
• Construction: Pressed steel
• Maker Marked: Tonka (underside and front bumper)
• Tires: XR-101, white hub
• Includes: Bed tire rack and additional wheel
• Campbell's Soup Can (4" H) Shown for Scale — Not Included