1978 Hess fuel oil tanker

 

1978 Hess fuel oil tanker truck information

1) Historical overview

The 1978 Hess fuel oil tanker continues the modernized tanker style introduced the year before. For collectors, it’s best understood as a close companion to the 1977 release, sharing the same general design and play functions while adding an easy-to-spot branding change on the tanker body.

For year-to-year comparison, start with 1977 Hess fuel oil tanker, and for broader context within the decade use the Hess Truck Checklist: 1970s.

2) Features and play functions

The 1978 tanker retains the hands-on features that define the late-1970s fuel oil tanker design.

• Working lights: Headlights and taillights powered by batteries and controlled by a switch.
• Free-rolling wheels: Built for display and gentle tabletop play.
• Tanker configuration: A tractor-and-tanker layout modeled after real fuel-delivery vehicles.

3) Design and construction

Construction details are an important part of documentation, especially when comparing 1977 and 1978 side-by-side.

• Rear-side branding: The most commonly noted difference versus 1977 is a bolder Hess logo on the rear side of the tanker.
• Paint and trim: Traditional Hess colors with bright accents and chrome detailing.
• Battery compartment: Check for corrosion and photograph the compartment for your records.

4) Collectibility considerations

Collectors typically evaluate 1978 examples by overall condition, originality, and the operation/condition of any moving or electrical parts.

• Lighting system: If you test lights, document results; if not, still photograph the battery area.
• Lettering and markings: Confirm the rear-side tanker logo is present and readable.
• Reference support: For general research tools, see Hess Truck Books / Price Guide and the Hess Truck Value / Collector Reference.

1978 Hess fuel oil tanker – examples for sale

Listings can help you compare condition and completeness. Use the identification points above (especially the rear-side tanker logo) when reviewing photos.

1978 Hess Toy Tanker Truck Original Box with Inserts instructions & inserts

$118.00

Vintage 1977-‘78 Hess Toy Truck Gasoline Tanker NIB Complete w Battery Card

$239.98

Vintage Antique 1972-1978 Hess Toy Truck Parts

$4.00

5) Collector tips

• Photograph before cleaning: Capture all sides, close-ups of lettering, and the underside.
• Remove old batteries: Prevent leakage damage during storage.
• Use gentle cleaning: Avoid harsh cleaners that can lift decals or cloud plastic.
• Storage: Keep in a stable, dry environment; see How to Store Your Hess Trucks.

6) Optional FAQ

What is the easiest way to tell the 1978 tanker from the 1977 tanker?
They share the same overall design and working lights, but collectors often look for the bolder Hess logo on the rear side of the tanker on the 1978 release. Comparing photos against 1977 is the fastest way to confirm details.

Other Hess trucks from the 1970s