The 8252 Beach Buster, along with its brothers 8253 and 8255, make up a set of modular, reconfigurable rescue vehicles. Each feature a number of detachable modules which can be recombined in multiple ways either within the set, or with each other. Somewhat like 8244, the idea is a good one for play variety but suffers due to the fact the most of the possible alternate configurations don't really make any sense. Still, if you should want to put landing skids on your motorcycle or off-road wheels under your rotor, you can. The instructions for each model featured photos of some of the other possible configurations.
These sets were clearly made with a very young audience in mind. The parts came sorted into many different bags inside the box, one bag for each module even though only 20 parts may be required.
This particular set makes use of white and blue, both colors which were in short supply at the time. The flexible parts were particularly welcome.
This model has a total of 3 modules. The front and rear axles are very similar to each other, but not identical The central unit is for the driver. The modules are connected together with the unique transparent connector blocks (blue in this set) and double pins (white in this set). Each connector block can be used in one of three orthogonal orientations.
The suspension and steering of this model are inexorably linked. Steering arms are used in both the front and back and are connected by steering racks even though they are not driven by pinions. Instead, the modules are installed on the chassis at an angle. When the body is rolled to either side, this causes the wheels to lean into the turn. This 4 wheel steering is quite effective. A pair of rubber bands return to the model to level. This configuration is nearly identical to that used in 8226.
The steering really only works when the modules are in their primary configuration. If the axles are moved to different parts of the vehicle, then the geometry is not right.
Caught on camera long before Baywatch, David Hasselhoff is ready to cruise the beach and he is well equipped to do so. His utility belt has a 2-way radio and some handcuffs. What that strapped to his leg? Is it a sidearm, a flare gun, or some bear repellent? We may never know.
This figure appears only in this set. There is a shield printed on the unique helmet.
This set uses 4 of the 43.2x28 small balloon tires and wheels.
By Technicopedia