tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22125700416084887812024-03-16T18:52:22.462+00:00George Dent - Model MakerA Model Maker's DiaryGeorge Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.comBlogger730125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-70746379290749966082021-08-16T05:00:00.001+01:002021-08-16T05:00:00.205+01:00KENWORTH AERODYNE<p></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9oxst6vC7J_a6ZySsYQH0jvvNnpBQxS7K-fOnEtlzmZb9BfQ4gePzBiSw14-jsSU-96r86hxlZW_q5zQe1t3qnCAtmU3ARRiJ2N30XfYKvRAJh7q4xJT9HY22atNAoHH-1akGq533cI/s2048/Kenworth+fin+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2047" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9oxst6vC7J_a6ZySsYQH0jvvNnpBQxS7K-fOnEtlzmZb9BfQ4gePzBiSw14-jsSU-96r86hxlZW_q5zQe1t3qnCAtmU3ARRiJ2N30XfYKvRAJh7q4xJT9HY22atNAoHH-1akGq533cI/w640-h640/Kenworth+fin+1.jpg" width="640" /><br /></a></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">This 1:32 scale truck proved to be a labour of love. Based on the Revell kit, which amounts to a snap-together affair, countless hours were spent adding detail to the chassis frames and bodywork. The original kit parts were basic, to say the least, but after all the effort came the reward. A new set of wheels and tyres from Fujimi added the icing on the cake.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I'm especially pleased with the exhaust stacks, which are the original mouldings, shorn of the thick 'chrome' effect finish and patiently re-profiled and all those holes in the heat shields were drilled-out by hand. I certainly got good value from my RP Toolz hex bolt and washer punch and die sets - the extra detail relief on the chassis mainframes really makes a difference. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cTT0LRDU3pN_cdvPms_5yKMXNDUOHE5bh0PzQ1Nik9Dqa9UGGyLBfN8Ac7gi7qM-q42QJfR8eypBwo2vcBKxij7qW7N8T2szpNIBrgDojkx_GENQ8grWCrkdUj1duRDeIKre3Z51UVI/s2048/Kenworth+fin+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9cTT0LRDU3pN_cdvPms_5yKMXNDUOHE5bh0PzQ1Nik9Dqa9UGGyLBfN8Ac7gi7qM-q42QJfR8eypBwo2vcBKxij7qW7N8T2szpNIBrgDojkx_GENQ8grWCrkdUj1duRDeIKre3Z51UVI/w640-h640/Kenworth+fin+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvqVZkHqpA4tMarQN5h8Oyg1lVmyNLreXC0_2B8WuKh86RsKRVg56hRxEMWvcWlPlRMoLSiRCiNmFSQM5eNVIFcbTZMp5NTt6RwEHBc5BYArsyJmGlk0vvZBVXeCXB39QpO3XQnEqISc/s2048/334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1396" data-original-width="2048" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvqVZkHqpA4tMarQN5h8Oyg1lVmyNLreXC0_2B8WuKh86RsKRVg56hRxEMWvcWlPlRMoLSiRCiNmFSQM5eNVIFcbTZMp5NTt6RwEHBc5BYArsyJmGlk0vvZBVXeCXB39QpO3XQnEqISc/w400-h272/334.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDab2XeYOPy0TGz5sN3M9pQp1tvN-Np0OQn6t3XbBM87jourqf6k8jjEp7rA3nPrfpr3B0YFD-27PGp2DD7ai2m3cCTXs-T8JHsHABC53LumIj93ieUh3u2Hvg49emME4G4C7fEa5-8hE/s2048/289.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDab2XeYOPy0TGz5sN3M9pQp1tvN-Np0OQn6t3XbBM87jourqf6k8jjEp7rA3nPrfpr3B0YFD-27PGp2DD7ai2m3cCTXs-T8JHsHABC53LumIj93ieUh3u2Hvg49emME4G4C7fEa5-8hE/w640-h428/289.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiUrWPq1mnM21pYU_zwHrkMl-RSnAaOHulNWxuO8Uo8d6eQIwbKJUTB7TFWtKD4YXuHDj4ouqCcZh3sERWymi7_3BZ0OZQHLcFd9l4KVBd-D_aa-Elo9j1kss8cXw2t4IyHPW58VNIRw/s2048/291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiUrWPq1mnM21pYU_zwHrkMl-RSnAaOHulNWxuO8Uo8d6eQIwbKJUTB7TFWtKD4YXuHDj4ouqCcZh3sERWymi7_3BZ0OZQHLcFd9l4KVBd-D_aa-Elo9j1kss8cXw2t4IyHPW58VNIRw/w640-h428/291.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfHMxJqSNLY9M8xZY7J2iX2fcr0qCYGqKq-FC3r8rLCOOoQpv2LbdIyqJHDUEYz7rPWVTvBG7TfgPxZiMSJgVEtRLym-KhyphenhyphenvnHhGatutn3JdcfbE8_jCF5CkM4XtuVfXxDL7VGLdITaM/s2048/295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1364" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgfHMxJqSNLY9M8xZY7J2iX2fcr0qCYGqKq-FC3r8rLCOOoQpv2LbdIyqJHDUEYz7rPWVTvBG7TfgPxZiMSJgVEtRLym-KhyphenhyphenvnHhGatutn3JdcfbE8_jCF5CkM4XtuVfXxDL7VGLdITaM/w640-h426/295.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><div style="text-align: left;">Read all about this project and follow the whole assembly and upgrade process in my new book... on sale now from all good bookstores or direct from <a href="http://www.crowood.com">www.crowood.com</a> </div></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKgIi6uRfig0TQmyoVzxu_PEOCGfaLicklx3_kwaoLsU1nc4kAc8_dMHSU5EyJSVqy5bPFIcTlODQY6FeD2aro4i6Od-iJl0re9u5eJBNaCmYRj1Hra5EPhzpvkWucrRq5vqOL2mGOAg/s2048/Truck+cover+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1690" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRKgIi6uRfig0TQmyoVzxu_PEOCGfaLicklx3_kwaoLsU1nc4kAc8_dMHSU5EyJSVqy5bPFIcTlODQY6FeD2aro4i6Od-iJl0re9u5eJBNaCmYRj1Hra5EPhzpvkWucrRq5vqOL2mGOAg/w330-h400/Truck+cover+blog.jpg" width="330" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-6409999569411120002021-08-12T19:18:00.000+01:002021-08-12T19:18:23.605+01:00BUILDING AND PAINTING MODEL TRUCKS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xT1FZXOQ2wl8mguHC-XztvBIGoMg6x1aYS4caMtM-FlNXxq07xbJ5XKTk2FY9Bv244McNmkrllWGBv1Wk-e7PCVg9fNNPst0zy-LH2DZ0vv81ERDjKGQG22CmkS26AYqHhF_ZE4rTPQ/s2048/Ford+fin+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1434" data-original-width="2048" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xT1FZXOQ2wl8mguHC-XztvBIGoMg6x1aYS4caMtM-FlNXxq07xbJ5XKTk2FY9Bv244McNmkrllWGBv1Wk-e7PCVg9fNNPst0zy-LH2DZ0vv81ERDjKGQG22CmkS26AYqHhF_ZE4rTPQ/w640-h448/Ford+fin+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">After a few years of hard graft, I'm delighted to announce that my new book, <i>Building and Painting Model Trucks</i>, is about to be published by Crowood Press. </span></p><p style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The book offers a complete guide to building, detailing, painting and weathering a whole range of plastic truck kits from 1:76 to 1:24 scale. P</span><span style="font-family: arial;">acked with over 650 colour images, each stage of assembly and finishing is shown in clear, easy-to-follow steps. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqyu6cWjIQopIpRBtE_X-ISYIUL2KA2BBTAlKnPrF1Dn-fykTBZtywoNecGPuSb4XJCEcGVogP44ycEKuH-FliW-DIEcpsEksAai1Z3rIOPBbvfpZPVEb9IbmJYCk_UEt4VqTzv3DpTc/s2048/Truck+cover+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1690" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNqyu6cWjIQopIpRBtE_X-ISYIUL2KA2BBTAlKnPrF1Dn-fykTBZtywoNecGPuSb4XJCEcGVogP44ycEKuH-FliW-DIEcpsEksAai1Z3rIOPBbvfpZPVEb9IbmJYCk_UEt4VqTzv3DpTc/s320/Truck+cover+blog.jpg" width="264" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">I've tried to include as broad a mix of projects as possible, featuring European, North American, Russian and Asian trucks. There are plenty of tips for fitting off-the-shelf detailing and conversion parts, while I've also striven to get the best out of a kit's original components, so there should something for everyone with an interest in building and enhancing plastic vehicle kits. </span></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">The book goes on sale imminently and will be available from all good bookstores or direct from the publisher at <a href="http://www.crowood.com">www.crowood.com</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Baswj-FaVCToNKN0kMtlbLXyog2ovjJSYnsnwGM_IZ9RNLvHV1dxkgXpipiC50wyL2DuFsFdhIzkIKDBVtjPlLf2yqy1brltDUkFRMCX1j0J-8mPDgcTRjDJI4RuFg08beUm0i3qv_s/s2048/Ford+fin+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Baswj-FaVCToNKN0kMtlbLXyog2ovjJSYnsnwGM_IZ9RNLvHV1dxkgXpipiC50wyL2DuFsFdhIzkIKDBVtjPlLf2yqy1brltDUkFRMCX1j0J-8mPDgcTRjDJI4RuFg08beUm0i3qv_s/w640-h426/Ford+fin+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This is a good opportunity to showcase the book's cover star, a 1:24 scale Ford LTL9000 built from an Italeri kit. As featured in previous blog posts, this truck started out as a Wrecker, but has lost its sleeper cab and gained a crane. A number of extra detailing fittings have been added along the way, including resin wheels and fifth wheel from Kit Form Services, but much of the rest has been created from stock materials. The susie cables, for instance, are formed from copper jewellery wire.</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">This is perhaps the truck that I'm most proud of. Indeed, the trucks featured in the book are some of the best models I've ever built - which is kind of amusing, as I'm usually associated with model railways!</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Look out for more images of my truck models in the coming weeks, both here and on my Instagram account: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/dentmodelmaker/" target="_blank">@dentmodelmaker</a></span></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJQlzLOvdGRQ8iomScrKkeB_GXdwkMhBzIlEZbF71D-VtOBBcjhwOlnZX6qat6t0s2S2yt7TCQZYWc732s55ViNtHAhJFQawZtgroyBN_AAEUvliP21wvw5aopB5B9koQG8fp7RHOPNs/s2048/Ford+fin+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1479" data-original-width="2048" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJQlzLOvdGRQ8iomScrKkeB_GXdwkMhBzIlEZbF71D-VtOBBcjhwOlnZX6qat6t0s2S2yt7TCQZYWc732s55ViNtHAhJFQawZtgroyBN_AAEUvliP21wvw5aopB5B9koQG8fp7RHOPNs/w640-h462/Ford+fin+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxum0bPE40RTRYQXitObtU_TWm9sSQo8QGUac7U6OxxjeEtgBqe2nMmTLZTnw0ZLAbq-tFI9jofEpNN2yNblRydoGU8OVZ7uG8WgTWvNwE4_v2eM9Uve7AuXxtZZ7BEDRwL3EOiLLcEI/s2048/Ford+fin+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1452" data-original-width="2048" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPxum0bPE40RTRYQXitObtU_TWm9sSQo8QGUac7U6OxxjeEtgBqe2nMmTLZTnw0ZLAbq-tFI9jofEpNN2yNblRydoGU8OVZ7uG8WgTWvNwE4_v2eM9Uve7AuXxtZZ7BEDRwL3EOiLLcEI/w640-h454/Ford+fin+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><p></p></div>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-53042211665025839772021-04-26T12:29:00.002+01:002021-04-26T12:29:00.185+01:00FORD LTL9000 - NEARING COMPLETION <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8gGnVwUSaOnzmRZBgI40qySMGEaCwwjyyZsnK3JDtMKhaV_rsPKl5aXYMNXVWh7ewqFZ-uhXE3NtTD8dF2hS1Qo5kTxVwlVdD1bAP4U0pywpNw6eHUQACKl_ri4hd2g8of1yjbqekqQ/s2048/Ford+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI8gGnVwUSaOnzmRZBgI40qySMGEaCwwjyyZsnK3JDtMKhaV_rsPKl5aXYMNXVWh7ewqFZ-uhXE3NtTD8dF2hS1Qo5kTxVwlVdD1bAP4U0pywpNw6eHUQACKl_ri4hd2g8of1yjbqekqQ/w640-h428/Ford+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>My long-running 1:24 scale Ford LTL9000 project is now on the home straight. After finishing the bodywork and hydraulic crane, the various elements have been weathered separately before final assembly. It's only at this late stage, with the cab permanently in position, that I've been able to finish the detailing of the engine compartment. Lots of electrical cables have been added, along with a fusebox and various connections, including to the wiper motor and alternator. This alone took a few hours, creating the wiring looms from fine nickel jewellery wire, then painting and weathering them in situ.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUGuA4-dry9XJdLjLTGJJuu64GodE5dD-2dBZLgu6K4u9h-AaJnBEsB52SOYhnkkeLm2v5N8s14KIl8Mg1ZPxJrcWHXO9SBNQOlDfF1D-uZ6o8fYdEkHmq3NhyphenhyphenHeDSe48gaJy2KYWrY4/s2048/Ford+update+2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUGuA4-dry9XJdLjLTGJJuu64GodE5dD-2dBZLgu6K4u9h-AaJnBEsB52SOYhnkkeLm2v5N8s14KIl8Mg1ZPxJrcWHXO9SBNQOlDfF1D-uZ6o8fYdEkHmq3NhyphenhyphenHeDSe48gaJy2KYWrY4/w640-h428/Ford+update+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0tDD-mUL5X8xXwwKgR30OBZEXqhxOA0IqsTCBHBNcR6b6TN3KuVD0z2LCP0yPKJu6j6U4GrqNFiRFhMntKi_JJZcptvAWWSK4RPqdy4bEKJfP_cFX_E6XhXgwvUcbkkmQYdq-msDGZk/s2048/Ford+update+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc0tDD-mUL5X8xXwwKgR30OBZEXqhxOA0IqsTCBHBNcR6b6TN3KuVD0z2LCP0yPKJu6j6U4GrqNFiRFhMntKi_JJZcptvAWWSK4RPqdy4bEKJfP_cFX_E6XhXgwvUcbkkmQYdq-msDGZk/w640-h480/Ford+update+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">I then realised that the bulkhead was still missing a few things, like a washer reservoir, so I fashioned a couple of tanks, brackets and filler caps, from scrap bits of styrene, fixed them in place and plumbed them in with flexible hose. Again, painted and weathered after installation, they look pretty convincing, whether or not all this is 100% prototypical.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3bMjAc8OAUONKoYcRw2mk4L5ibAx7FzApJMv07IZagFMgdpxJnNjiBukVk0f-179Y9u0197hurWWlFFLuBMfBAfePAH6cj_7ESUbtchUxR1c5lupyYSv6QDfD9qwrhiGZgn8rd5x_QU/s2048/Ford+update+3.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr3bMjAc8OAUONKoYcRw2mk4L5ibAx7FzApJMv07IZagFMgdpxJnNjiBukVk0f-179Y9u0197hurWWlFFLuBMfBAfePAH6cj_7ESUbtchUxR1c5lupyYSv6QDfD9qwrhiGZgn8rd5x_QU/w640-h426/Ford+update+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to close the hood... once the front fender is installed, this view won't be possible again, as the hood will only open partially unless the hinge brackets are modified.</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0c549N_cZKmdoBmcYth9l60Y76aO9lsxDlA02hZpQp_d4Ky87kjXXDrsc-m-d8X7-A5yjUl0NanJQOSx4SDw7XLXS9lOe4D1QEwYUvJ1xn0et4Z1Hcb8nOJPX-R4_2mGp2InVIn23iA0/s2048/Ford+update+4.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0c549N_cZKmdoBmcYth9l60Y76aO9lsxDlA02hZpQp_d4Ky87kjXXDrsc-m-d8X7-A5yjUl0NanJQOSx4SDw7XLXS9lOe4D1QEwYUvJ1xn0et4Z1Hcb8nOJPX-R4_2mGp2InVIn23iA0/w640-h480/Ford+update+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Italeri crane took an age to paint and weather, with the extra details and hydraulic hoses adding to the challenge. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaLPYMZNGW7DCbQkPUYXKzjTv440YcRpVLuN8NslN62Ccj_NXete90z40h23VSS6mNVavae7CI4bLJml3VZ6Rx_nNnavcrI3NX9hblvBIpVMyl35ObvR9s6_HEF8tqM74jygIOvbSYYqM/s2048/Ford+update+5.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaLPYMZNGW7DCbQkPUYXKzjTv440YcRpVLuN8NslN62Ccj_NXete90z40h23VSS6mNVavae7CI4bLJml3VZ6Rx_nNnavcrI3NX9hblvBIpVMyl35ObvR9s6_HEF8tqM74jygIOvbSYYqM/w640-h480/Ford+update+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The exhaust stacks have been added and the various pipe joints filled and touched-in as neatly as possible. Heat shields and grab handles still need adding before the crane can be fixed to the chassis.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />So, what's next? Just final assembly of the crane and rear platform, plus the hood, front fender and wing mirrors. I also need to create some appropriate Illinois licence plates. It'll certainly feel momentous when this project is complete, but it's already feeling like one of the best jobs of my career so far.<p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-17740722284947185252021-04-20T07:00:00.001+01:002021-04-20T07:00:00.190+01:00NCB 16XX<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWj_m2VsRJ37SVk9zgrHofwwTNGAcPwWvNa3-j7VRoT9pVaaTiWQ7Y60oqA8FTqx2mrYmoPbUnXmwG7z7q0PFYobH8L-Ffl62DIVymeAuz1fxvsKZ6siAMK5-M9mRJdAG5Lg1FvarPQU/s2048/16xx+fin+insta+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1638" data-original-width="2048" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNWj_m2VsRJ37SVk9zgrHofwwTNGAcPwWvNa3-j7VRoT9pVaaTiWQ7Y60oqA8FTqx2mrYmoPbUnXmwG7z7q0PFYobH8L-Ffl62DIVymeAuz1fxvsKZ6siAMK5-M9mRJdAG5Lg1FvarPQU/w640-h512/16xx+fin+insta+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>I've been musing recently over future layout building projects...</p><p>I'm still a little upset about having to dispose of Maudetown Colliery a couple of years ago, so the urge to build another coal mine-themed layout is proving very strong. Especially since getting my hands on a couple of Model Rail/Rapido's new 16XX models. These OO gauge 0-6-0Ts are rather lovely and reward closer scrutiny as there is so much detail to enjoy, much of which can be missed at first glance. </p><p>Start poking around inside the fully-appointed cab, however, and you'll see a couple of mash tins on the shelf above the firebox. There's also cosmetic valve and piston gear between the frames, just visible under the boiler barrel. The wealth of surface relief really comes to the fore after a weathering job like the one displayed here, where the grime sits around the rivet heads and panel seams.</p><p></p><p>Apart from a final finessing with an airbrush, this weathering job was done almost entirely by hand, using oil paints and weathering powders. The full process was explained in the April 2021 issue of <b><i><a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail </a></i></b>magazine (MR285), which also contained a full lowdown on the range of exclusive 16XX models and an overview of the prototype fleet. </p><p>I'm still unsure about which of my various layout plans to pursue first, although two of the leading contenders do have a coal theme, so maybe I should just give in to my obsession...?!</p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7W7Ek97LcUGzX_NqzqZ4s7w_F0TvuNKqIwbJBWe5Y13Vnu3oT_VxDhLEyHqGPv-xwEvos5Sh8omL58nyso8JTwKrofIqtyPk8Ouakrtv6CEQVSTplR3jOLbRkQxhkDB6pHGtMz_x0mg8/s2048/16xx+fin+insta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1675" data-original-width="2048" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7W7Ek97LcUGzX_NqzqZ4s7w_F0TvuNKqIwbJBWe5Y13Vnu3oT_VxDhLEyHqGPv-xwEvos5Sh8omL58nyso8JTwKrofIqtyPk8Ouakrtv6CEQVSTplR3jOLbRkQxhkDB6pHGtMz_x0mg8/w640-h524/16xx+fin+insta.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My 16XX has been greatly enhanced by the addition of a realistic footplate crew and oil cans, courtesy of Hardy's Hobbies. The 3D printed figures fit perfectly within the cab and, after painting, really look the part. The real coal load also helps, along with the fire irons (supplied with the 16XX).</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfe0YUE_kdpa0pm9eJbtjv5v0tWpioFyr_kjCDcA-pMO3e3uHZY9bMqhScLKiMmtPTEQIqNYelKO-mNDkiBVhPYNwrvsfLIBz_qLZ4jHQIGUgRp27NWUb7Am0Hq7zGdbfc6hsSVlB45o/s2048/NCB16xx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEfe0YUE_kdpa0pm9eJbtjv5v0tWpioFyr_kjCDcA-pMO3e3uHZY9bMqhScLKiMmtPTEQIqNYelKO-mNDkiBVhPYNwrvsfLIBz_qLZ4jHQIGUgRp27NWUb7Am0Hq7zGdbfc6hsSVlB45o/w640-h426/NCB16xx.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Model Rail/Rapido 16XX models have been proving very popular. There are 22 different versions to choose from and you can order yours from <a href="http://www.modelrailoffers.co.uk">www.modelrailoffers.co.uk</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-11895273982244985712021-04-17T12:01:00.000+01:002021-04-17T12:01:07.498+01:00REACHING A PEAK<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLP66zOtAZdaSYFhA5YhUzP3Sw-1nUnuRTGY-jFFv1k3OtNXY6NQe5uSRh-bQW5q9u8oLIeEzHTpJzfPZ9uRPIzFXluRkf6XyBC-3nZLMJwqQnuh22h125008_lHB0lq66n0X9gXTeRik/s2048/Peak+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="2048" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLP66zOtAZdaSYFhA5YhUzP3Sw-1nUnuRTGY-jFFv1k3OtNXY6NQe5uSRh-bQW5q9u8oLIeEzHTpJzfPZ9uRPIzFXluRkf6XyBC-3nZLMJwqQnuh22h125008_lHB0lq66n0X9gXTeRik/w640-h344/Peak+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The current issue of <b><i><a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail</a></i></b> magazine (MR286, May 2021), includes a Masterclass feature detailing the history of the pioneer 'Peak' locomotives. The Class 44s may only have enjoyed a brief Top Link passenger career, before being relegated to freight work, but they paved the way for the successful Class 45/46 fleet, along with the evergreen Class 47s.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrbWEWcpNQ4wsxb-wGOxP66PX6UKjryMyK-iDdLpAH7On15hd0lhdGy0A_Y7ODOrvPS97Y3o4yrG5upEZSLDqcH6mc9NZ1tv3LGelfyT5eQXK44ckIi6iEjgm8AM54fhAs54AQnqNHYw/s2048/peak+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1108" data-original-width="2048" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrbWEWcpNQ4wsxb-wGOxP66PX6UKjryMyK-iDdLpAH7On15hd0lhdGy0A_Y7ODOrvPS97Y3o4yrG5upEZSLDqcH6mc9NZ1tv3LGelfyT5eQXK44ckIi6iEjgm8AM54fhAs54AQnqNHYw/w640-h346/peak+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p>To compliment Pip Dunn's historical notes, I decided to try and create the unique 44009 <i>Snowdon</i>, which not only wore a different set of bodyside grilles (along with 44010), but also carried odd nose ends after collision repairs. Some surgery was required, using a donor Class 45 bodyshell, while an etched brass grille pack was employed, courtesy of PH Designs. </p><p>It took quite a bit of work, especially grafting the new nose end on as seamlessly as possible. But the hard work paid off and I'm really pleased to finally have '009 in my OO gauge collection, to compliment my other 'Peaks', especially 44010 - a model I converted in the late noughties. </p><p>Furthermore, it's been a while since I've done a job of this kind, so it was great fun to rekindle memories of cutting-and-shutting locomotive bodyshells and adding lots of etched grilles. I realised how much I'd missed it, especially the sense of satisfaction when the coats of paint start to build up and the model takes on its new identity. Maybe I should do more in the future...? </p><p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iZTKa4yL5u_gBykxQpxZVcx9nq8VarzW-2GTYrDN88ssLlnQhJMxyWi4OcgF7HFUW-RAdP5kOuRgDBCh83KFeGnTn5E4-TjO3zpAw0tN2PH3j0GQLPMbi96BmyJBk-wzlywXOqO966I/s2048/Peak+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1415" data-original-width="2048" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-iZTKa4yL5u_gBykxQpxZVcx9nq8VarzW-2GTYrDN88ssLlnQhJMxyWi4OcgF7HFUW-RAdP5kOuRgDBCh83KFeGnTn5E4-TjO3zpAw0tN2PH3j0GQLPMbi96BmyJBk-wzlywXOqO966I/w400-h276/Peak+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once the Class 45 nose end had been installed, it was a case of tidying up the joint as much as possible, with filler and abrasive pads. I also scribed the horizontal seam, which is missing from the Bachmann models.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DmVkWMTdf4UPNNFmJG9CDJUY0zYWhpsC5LqBaCbQU876-nwtRjd22SSbSq3sBB29fZPFQtmva3TYIuttJjfsDMNeQ2CSJtx9FCGTDuUKCW6ZKzcBGR-Y5eTk1gMdKKdh5t7fDDSHzxs/s2048/Peak+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1410" data-original-width="2048" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5DmVkWMTdf4UPNNFmJG9CDJUY0zYWhpsC5LqBaCbQU876-nwtRjd22SSbSq3sBB29fZPFQtmva3TYIuttJjfsDMNeQ2CSJtx9FCGTDuUKCW6ZKzcBGR-Y5eTk1gMdKKdh5t7fDDSHzxs/w400-h275/Peak+5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flattening the moulded grilles was another time-consuming (and messy) job. Lots of abrading followed to get the bodysides smooth and blemish-free, before the new grilles were fixed in place.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR6NdYRLbxLatrxUID5RSAvc6fkTYK4zojHlHo7lFPJT1uHeSxeAsHfkNafzs20TrthXfNhVWfSul5i2JxqnjDX8gxeKt-Dw_2474_FEFKrfi6MolwKGL-KzabOvGNA0Drb7c9BDtxbY/s2048/Peak+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="2048" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVR6NdYRLbxLatrxUID5RSAvc6fkTYK4zojHlHo7lFPJT1uHeSxeAsHfkNafzs20TrthXfNhVWfSul5i2JxqnjDX8gxeKt-Dw_2474_FEFKrfi6MolwKGL-KzabOvGNA0Drb7c9BDtxbY/w640-h374/Peak+6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready for the paint shop. Other details added included a new roof fan grille (from <a href="http://www.shawplan.com" target="_blank">Shawplan</a>), boiler step plates, handrails, lamp brackets, buffers and brake hoses. The roof of the boiler compartment was also modified.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39OACY_nhP3qn3EEMjxRYtfJhK832uR8DX6Js_ZE_-KmvpH3JpxLzEZE2TmMvud_glGnlQ4Fy7by1MRzjti8arLlyKqVumZMT3qq-9rvG05tqe4e6g_Wqq_MHL0KeinHTHNW8IZSEUGg/s2703/peak+7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="2703" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39OACY_nhP3qn3EEMjxRYtfJhK832uR8DX6Js_ZE_-KmvpH3JpxLzEZE2TmMvud_glGnlQ4Fy7by1MRzjti8arLlyKqVumZMT3qq-9rvG05tqe4e6g_Wqq_MHL0KeinHTHNW8IZSEUGg/w640-h276/peak+7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">44009 has joined 44010, a model I created in 2008/9.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCxn4GZddJBoq3RejKQ17U6sRMCj4AyoAFAKbxtcoDqQ4rQK0bLhqQubCiNtSofWAisieYu2DNe8jeWY5vcLUDr4qrrRs2xdf2d8BO0GiXM-8l6Beo3YiKNovGtYsgnWazlAAxorlS-0/s844/MR286+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="609" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoCxn4GZddJBoq3RejKQ17U6sRMCj4AyoAFAKbxtcoDqQ4rQK0bLhqQubCiNtSofWAisieYu2DNe8jeWY5vcLUDr4qrrRs2xdf2d8BO0GiXM-8l6Beo3YiKNovGtYsgnWazlAAxorlS-0/s320/MR286+cover.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The full modelling demo and Class 44 prototype feature can be found in the new issue of <i><b><a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail</a></b></i> magazine, on sale now!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /> </p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-26718242591654933782021-03-14T09:53:00.000+00:002021-03-14T09:53:52.695+00:00TRESTLE WAGON UPGRADE<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvFBnL2ld69rK-C4dCRGBCCpy2vzEnVyAaHA7tUMtTupfIJJqR8tQL-otq9iI6TDxyfV92qQlN2nuMYaWrMWjbQhLbPQDT4xcfh_TMFoj7t0fK8DT_PsYFEmBTiBn3pntT55ROKYRMOo/s2048/Trestle+wagon+blog+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvFBnL2ld69rK-C4dCRGBCCpy2vzEnVyAaHA7tUMtTupfIJJqR8tQL-otq9iI6TDxyfV92qQlN2nuMYaWrMWjbQhLbPQDT4xcfh_TMFoj7t0fK8DT_PsYFEmBTiBn3pntT55ROKYRMOo/w640-h640/Trestle+wagon+blog+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The next issue of <b><i><a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail </a></i></b>magazine - on sale March 18th - includes a demo of how I upgraded this OO gauge Parkside plastic wagon kit, by scratch-building a set of wooden trestles. The real timber replaced the plastic components, providing authentic texture and colouring, something that plastic seldom captures. The load of sheet metal was also created from scratch, using more 'real' material, in this case lead sheet.</p><p>The finished wagon is an eye-catching addition to my late-1960s/early 1970s era freight stock and the project proved very enjoyable. I've built a couple of these now, with another quartet still to do, so they should keep me busy for the next few weeks. </p><p>Since taking over as Editor of <b><i>Model Rail</i></b> last year, it's been difficult to find time to do all the modelling projects I'd originally planned for the upcoming year. That said, at least I now get the final say on what projects I prioritise, so it's not all bad!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUZxcpKE-0N7wGULIuFnLOt6OE5_CmqiyIZSgQIWLKriq7B6M25CxjerRvhyxofiKwVN5_dS88O6Kp5WmRpk-afJW87no2VLk3pNuUTcH7Ahzfg97xi_FBCzi1VLehoy6m5AxdduSNiQ/s2048/Trestle+wagon+blog+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaUZxcpKE-0N7wGULIuFnLOt6OE5_CmqiyIZSgQIWLKriq7B6M25CxjerRvhyxofiKwVN5_dS88O6Kp5WmRpk-afJW87no2VLk3pNuUTcH7Ahzfg97xi_FBCzi1VLehoy6m5AxdduSNiQ/w640-h640/Trestle+wagon+blog+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-21815538165036556382021-02-26T19:41:00.001+00:002021-02-26T19:41:22.157+00:00UNIMOG ODYSSEY. Part 5 <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc70nSEjVxbWaQ5pH76RQ7YIMoFvZgHJ9DDjY2xyvTIj1EUwC90c4hef6PBQPSAMbT-4sIy-e9NtunnNXOANqVyl4hAMfL_q5sNxXyufQjmSln8OW6FfmH5rlYm2v4682A6xghb6T0AwY/s2048/Unimog+blog+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="2048" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc70nSEjVxbWaQ5pH76RQ7YIMoFvZgHJ9DDjY2xyvTIj1EUwC90c4hef6PBQPSAMbT-4sIy-e9NtunnNXOANqVyl4hAMfL_q5sNxXyufQjmSln8OW6FfmH5rlYm2v4682A6xghb6T0AwY/w640-h456/Unimog+blog+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>It might have taken well over two years, but I've finally finished my 1:24 scale Mercedes Benz Unimog snowplough. Funnily enough, I added the finishing touches while snowed-in at home a few weeks ago, when I could have done with a 1:1 scale version. </div><div>As mentioned in previous posts, this has been a challenging project, as the Revell kit is great in many respects, but lacking in others. Having to fabricate the front and rear windscreens from clear plastic wasn't something I appreciated having to do, but it worked out ok in the end. I would've liked to put a bit more work into the weathering stage but sometimes you just have to make a few compromises in order to get the job finished. </div><div>As a fun personal project that gently 'ticked over', with bursts of activity crammed in between many other jobs, it has been a rewarding exercise. This, and various other trucks that I've built over the past couple years, will appear in my next book, published by Crowood Press, which should be out later this year. Watch this space...</div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZP5OyV7Baj9yHBf5msC2S8PJqv0Jz2JFlNvZGIlzSR1SO3bw9Jt_ZrICuiLOrX3SVlR0DAERFgNPQrX45BaszeoiENkSJ2hwbf4HgfR-ld_VEoF9oQq6LaG8y6ckQLvELjLcnoUCH50/s2048/Unimog+blog+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1344" data-original-width="2048" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikZP5OyV7Baj9yHBf5msC2S8PJqv0Jz2JFlNvZGIlzSR1SO3bw9Jt_ZrICuiLOrX3SVlR0DAERFgNPQrX45BaszeoiENkSJ2hwbf4HgfR-ld_VEoF9oQq6LaG8y6ckQLvELjLcnoUCH50/w640-h420/Unimog+blog+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILivGBnUeyThXRvHmSPnOQQx1YUGSsbKMc74mNhnaSrFqBTgVLWL_8e0tyGRXwHDRY7fRJ4yz5RYa57upEOpPtgDP0R76lgdws1Pry7qzGVmiWxJ5apYZP7S7WyMOvorkooC3hVJK1jc/s2048/Unimog+blog+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1414" data-original-width="2048" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILivGBnUeyThXRvHmSPnOQQx1YUGSsbKMc74mNhnaSrFqBTgVLWL_8e0tyGRXwHDRY7fRJ4yz5RYa57upEOpPtgDP0R76lgdws1Pry7qzGVmiWxJ5apYZP7S7WyMOvorkooC3hVJK1jc/w640-h442/Unimog+blog+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-40098502910622262492020-09-30T06:00:00.038+01:002020-09-30T06:00:04.294+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 7 - FINALE<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQV5YRwF5B-3_OHgwCV0sMw3GhHAnyQwJqvvaZyHPXMpQLJJs_xKJTK0VsQkUyKoSzFOKXIPary1oHMO98yllijAkbrOw7QSc-j0WNaAyTs_FxpSrYN_bn9hxuHUCJ9flY9X97CdYDlRE/s1918/DAF+Blog+1a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1918" data-original-width="1918" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQV5YRwF5B-3_OHgwCV0sMw3GhHAnyQwJqvvaZyHPXMpQLJJs_xKJTK0VsQkUyKoSzFOKXIPary1oHMO98yllijAkbrOw7QSc-j0WNaAyTs_FxpSrYN_bn9hxuHUCJ9flY9X97CdYDlRE/w500-h500/DAF+Blog+1a.jpg" width="500" /></a></div>I feel like there should be a drum roll and the sound of trumpets at this point, such is the momentousness of the occasion... Finally, my build of the Italeri 1:24 scale DAF 95 kit is now complete. After countless hours, a few aborted paint jobs and two house moves, I'm really pleased with the outcome, not least with the amount of extra work I've put into getting the truck looking as good as possible. <div><br /></div><div>Despite keeping the amount of extra detailing work to a minimum - mostly confined to new wheels and an enhanced cab interior - the truck still looks impressive, which is testament to the quality of the kit's components, despite the moulds being a few decades old. I'm especially pleased with the lining and logos on the cab and canvas body, which were improvised mostly from a number of model railway decal packs, as explained in a <a href="http://georgedentmodelmaker.blogspot.com/2020/08/i-must-be-daft-5.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqDIFzRY7gGqnLIq9Zqca9_t4B5ahPlxry01kWHvAJeS2Gt5YjqHrD98htrgocrpRhgykgpUNEnBM6etUJ1n5rnu2JMCpZB9eN-4xTZFeDw4RGQdLJFpnpwK2vzjGOd3bi1dXlo13zUc/s2048/DAF+Blog+INsta.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqDIFzRY7gGqnLIq9Zqca9_t4B5ahPlxry01kWHvAJeS2Gt5YjqHrD98htrgocrpRhgykgpUNEnBM6etUJ1n5rnu2JMCpZB9eN-4xTZFeDw4RGQdLJFpnpwK2vzjGOd3bi1dXlo13zUc/w400-h400/DAF+Blog+INsta.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>I need to take some better portrait photographs when I get a chance, those above were taken with my phone. The finished truck is big, so I'll need to clear some space on the display shelf to show it off...<br /> <p></p></div>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-41000896984580903002020-09-28T17:13:00.006+01:002020-09-28T17:13:55.638+01:00CLASS 56 AT WORK<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5RpClizdfQJFAfF9c8wl7Dc_nLK08J6M0w3blGoLvKvWb6vidPQoYpTiL6PhGUKmvdbRALfqf5uR2pGQdXmyQpy7-jnN3eVww_078QmbxMqUeSK0D9zlm1Mxr-Ii69Teh-yMxHbd-g8/s2048/Class+56+pic+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw5RpClizdfQJFAfF9c8wl7Dc_nLK08J6M0w3blGoLvKvWb6vidPQoYpTiL6PhGUKmvdbRALfqf5uR2pGQdXmyQpy7-jnN3eVww_078QmbxMqUeSK0D9zlm1Mxr-Ii69Teh-yMxHbd-g8/w640-h452/Class+56+pic+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The new issue of <b><a href="www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail</a></b> magazine goes on sale this week (MR279), containing my step-by-step guide to repainting and weathering a OO gauge diesel locomotive - using this Hornby Class 56 as the subject. As mentioned elsewhere, this has been my first full loco repaint for some time, so it feels great to see the finished loco at work, especially with my collection of detailed and weathered HAA hoppers. </p><p>I'm sure many will agree that this livery really suited the Class 56s, so I'm chuffed to have added a large logo example to my Type 5 fleet. Especially such a low-numbered example, as not many of the earlier builds received the scheme (is this the lowest number 56?). I depicted this Doncaster-built loco in early-1980s condition, without the orange cantrail stripe and red diamond coupling code decals, so it will look at home beside my plain blue Romanian 56s. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlBa73udCxWWrZkeNfoDekavH4ymCfmpsMBHvBUrUfHTdsblp4i5I3_aXrRRv6lJtzRZqo7xCeSRlEUzHY_PML3p61EcIHkWZuMMG3bX-7JQcaKPUcsWssB_0xXA_nzFtMKBDrdT9r4g/s2048/Class+56+pic+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1341" data-original-width="2048" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirlBa73udCxWWrZkeNfoDekavH4ymCfmpsMBHvBUrUfHTdsblp4i5I3_aXrRRv6lJtzRZqo7xCeSRlEUzHY_PML3p61EcIHkWZuMMG3bX-7JQcaKPUcsWssB_0xXA_nzFtMKBDrdT9r4g/w640-h420/Class+56+pic+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKOk2ozLkpXAepZlDzQ393khSHNCsLTXIWN9cgnYmba0NMX1LyHRuPaqjpTwE85ApxRQfmGjRU8qaVwzL4Zl9c44FuFpoxEBWVi_9WIMY9EsOGlKsXSEZh8sc0mKpo7XfZzbDpmuw7bg/s2048/Class+56+pic+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCKOk2ozLkpXAepZlDzQ393khSHNCsLTXIWN9cgnYmba0NMX1LyHRuPaqjpTwE85ApxRQfmGjRU8qaVwzL4Zl9c44FuFpoxEBWVi_9WIMY9EsOGlKsXSEZh8sc0mKpo7XfZzbDpmuw7bg/w400-h266/Class+56+pic+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The Class 56 was repainted using Lifecolor's acrylic paints, Fox Transfers logos and numbers, plus a set of data panels from Replica Railways. I didn't add any extra detailing parts, just those supplied with the Hornby model. However, a footplate crew was installed - at both ends - using figures from the Aidan Campbell range. The weathering process consisted of a number of individual stages, beginning with enamel weathering washes and ending with minimal work with the airbrush and Railmatch enamels. Read about the whole project in Model Rail issue 279!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAd9sYpse-atyuf8oGxAHVq_tbrcagX2WRoPnMxbAr1gs0QWml5CB25OzWJRsJ_taQ2VbzUZC14HXsCSuYRRBSqMnJ3GqxftzGEw7HywbjWLqZ5MZUQQJlUuUCQYxEZg-Mjl2hXGepXxY/s2048/Class+56+pic+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1430" data-original-width="2048" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAd9sYpse-atyuf8oGxAHVq_tbrcagX2WRoPnMxbAr1gs0QWml5CB25OzWJRsJ_taQ2VbzUZC14HXsCSuYRRBSqMnJ3GqxftzGEw7HywbjWLqZ5MZUQQJlUuUCQYxEZg-Mjl2hXGepXxY/w640-h446/Class+56+pic+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-39204991655632084582020-09-04T07:00:00.040+01:002020-09-04T07:00:01.782+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 6<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguC9t6UeNVHRNaygeEzjXzbDufQ8ll4q32zwFzQmaWX54Alb812jCVR7XFf6_5t-p75LPZLyNeRen58rFivfUfyiqWKP78e5IT0CI2GkNwezbzSkFTI-6ulvxBn-JParOON41sOai75Ac/s2048/DAF+Blog+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1405" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguC9t6UeNVHRNaygeEzjXzbDufQ8ll4q32zwFzQmaWX54Alb812jCVR7XFf6_5t-p75LPZLyNeRen58rFivfUfyiqWKP78e5IT0CI2GkNwezbzSkFTI-6ulvxBn-JParOON41sOai75Ac/s640/DAF+Blog+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Things are getting exciting, with final assembly of the DAF 95 well under way. The cab has been installed onto the frames, after modifying the tilting mechanism slightly, and the front fender fixed in place. The resin wheels are also in position, having been weathered and the tyres fitted. There has been some touching-in of the paintwork and weathering to ensure everything appears seamless, especially while the chassis is still accessible. Next job is to finish and install the rear canvas body, which is well advanced. <p></p><p>There's something incredibly rewarding about getting to this stage with a 1:24 scale truck kit. With so many individual components and the need to work on lots of separate sub-assemblies, it can take an age before everything comes together but, when the end finally comes into view, there's a rising sense of euphoria.</p><p>I'm especially happy with the livery, after a few false starts. This is actually the third attempt, with the previous two shades of green being deemed unsuitable. Having to rub down the paintwork and starting again can be soul destroying, but I'm glad I persevered and insisted on getting things right. There's a slight irony to the fact that the shade of green I eventually settled upon is British Railways Standard Locomotive green, while all of the livery decals are also taken from model railway packs. Building trucks as a means of switching off from the day job hasn't quite allowed me to escape from the influence of trains... </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc1oTgGBjJFDVJ-FZSzpMwumGMp3pDzHyBBijqns_xj3RirOP27o8vvzwtSsnqbvxeLnUoAxJO_L5VKZ85NK1k9KFxo8BDBqojlkCqTTGMsQN2uAKH6WwwzBaGYYOEDknaWrWGaM9BNs/s2048/DAF+blog+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1411" data-original-width="2048" height="441" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghc1oTgGBjJFDVJ-FZSzpMwumGMp3pDzHyBBijqns_xj3RirOP27o8vvzwtSsnqbvxeLnUoAxJO_L5VKZ85NK1k9KFxo8BDBqojlkCqTTGMsQN2uAKH6WwwzBaGYYOEDknaWrWGaM9BNs/w640-h441/DAF+blog+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU8pv_XpUxPZ2S-mNGiLt10u80jWsppUArWxcyAQGMMKZGK73cWDbKKLHSwUk93mqUeMuB4W76uZfUUNi0Aj6Y9zblSEEfvhqsz0HmUWNdJ7yXUcCalFZRAjPjwWZx2ceHrdUQ8x1Rws/s2048/DAF+blog+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDU8pv_XpUxPZ2S-mNGiLt10u80jWsppUArWxcyAQGMMKZGK73cWDbKKLHSwUk93mqUeMuB4W76uZfUUNi0Aj6Y9zblSEEfvhqsz0HmUWNdJ7yXUcCalFZRAjPjwWZx2ceHrdUQ8x1Rws/s640/DAF+blog+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-51963254158937802372020-09-01T07:00:00.114+01:002020-09-01T07:40:05.900+01:00LARGE LOGO '56' & a '25/9'<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRC4-NcYKpdiV6YtuVOCiNjj66_iIJfh4IDgr6ezVL2__OXIR9H_0Ic73Cez9_Yq9AE3GTKU8lvUlirzQLXSXkzHPzJqgF7nufZ3wshMPzY2RL8lmzVFwXV2iBSHD_ZLKVJmzE57U_9U/s2048/Cl56_1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1137" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyRC4-NcYKpdiV6YtuVOCiNjj66_iIJfh4IDgr6ezVL2__OXIR9H_0Ic73Cez9_Yq9AE3GTKU8lvUlirzQLXSXkzHPzJqgF7nufZ3wshMPzY2RL8lmzVFwXV2iBSHD_ZLKVJmzE57U_9U/s640/Cl56_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>This is a project I've been meaning to do for years and I can't quite believe it has taken so long to come to fruition. Finally, five years after I stripped the original paintwork from the bodyshell, this Hornby Class 56 has gained a new paint job in the form of the splendid BR 'Large Logo' blue livery. Despite a large chunk of the Class 56 production being turned out in this scheme from new, it's not a livery that has featured in Hornby's plans for the revamped Type 5 model. Yet the old, 1980s-era Mainline/Dapol/Hornby version had regularly appeared in 'large logo' over the years. </p><p>Whatever the whys and wherefores, this colour scheme really suited the Class 56 and it's how I remember seeing them, along with plain blue versions. They were never this clean and shiny, though, being invariably covered in coal dust and grime as they trudged back and forth from collieries to power stations in the North and Midlands.</p><p>The loco has been painted using Lifecolor acrylics and, while I write this, has just received a final coat of clear gloss to seal the decals in place. When that has cured completely, I can start on the weathering process, which should have a dramatic effect and create a (hopefully) much more lifelike appearance. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dL4wTwnCGPqPZ3AwzJuHi2mCKTBwtwwIL7Fa7hHbEnjhdoxWH7vxsj9WiCwvDp1k5yw6oo8BpPVmGXklHxGXpOSEBWZTFixa3L0FpzDnYJY3i5S2MtVRlyOuwJH4NeUNccko_8rSR3M/s2048/Cl56_2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4dL4wTwnCGPqPZ3AwzJuHi2mCKTBwtwwIL7Fa7hHbEnjhdoxWH7vxsj9WiCwvDp1k5yw6oo8BpPVmGXklHxGXpOSEBWZTFixa3L0FpzDnYJY3i5S2MtVRlyOuwJH4NeUNccko_8rSR3M/s640/Cl56_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>This is my first proper loco repaint job for well over a year, so I felt a little rusty to begin with. But, just like buses, you wait an age for something, then two turn up at once.... It made sense to maximise my time in the spray booth, so I've also been working on a Heljan Class 25/3, using a pre-production sample that was supplied unpainted. I struggled to remove the glazed windscreens, so had to resort to masking them in situ and I've added some etched details from a Brassmasters kit (aimed at the Bachmann '25') to ensure that the boiler grille and access steps were plated over, as per my chosen prototype.</p><p>I'd initially thought of recreating 25312<i> Tamworth Castle</i>, in her infamous 'ice cream van' livery, but I've plumped for 25902 instead, as I remember seeing the real loco working at Arpley Junction in the last few months before final withdrawal. She's also due an extensive weathering job, as '902 was looking pretty shabby towards the end. Incidentally, the Heljan 25 looks to be an attractive model and I'm looking forward both to getting this sample complete, but also to seeing the production models in the flesh. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR_PUh4325z_u9sgpwk-AFrQB7L3TrGtkSSNAbJysiOwOV7DPfoClKfTVd2RtP-pNr-8UC1fwMlSFM_qUw0i21xl_AZ6nxtIKU43Thp0AVv8LYqUEVkesXC0UotrxiD2UV_mN8LEY2nE/s2048/Cl56_3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1413" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR_PUh4325z_u9sgpwk-AFrQB7L3TrGtkSSNAbJysiOwOV7DPfoClKfTVd2RtP-pNr-8UC1fwMlSFM_qUw0i21xl_AZ6nxtIKU43Thp0AVv8LYqUEVkesXC0UotrxiD2UV_mN8LEY2nE/s640/Cl56_3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>The repainting process will be described in issue 279 of <b><i><span style="color: red;"><a href="www.model-rail.co.uk" target="_blank">Model Rail</a></span></i></b> magazine, on sale October 1st. </p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvfpVJ1jSvKQXlVf5uluXy5TbXLb6FGYTuDhKc4k_cTA0ytri_pV4xwNs8GPu8TjpawxNTeAkf7T-2iZ4WzNvAPhJ1P8c_zHwIQYlIvP6ZWlEe_fXyhNsjCZFBsNAgpq-ReX1UMeikZA/s2048/Cl56_4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1353" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbvfpVJ1jSvKQXlVf5uluXy5TbXLb6FGYTuDhKc4k_cTA0ytri_pV4xwNs8GPu8TjpawxNTeAkf7T-2iZ4WzNvAPhJ1P8c_zHwIQYlIvP6ZWlEe_fXyhNsjCZFBsNAgpq-ReX1UMeikZA/s640/Cl56_4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-88038565444130578392020-08-31T20:46:00.001+01:002020-08-31T20:46:49.256+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 5<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlXUCaB4rhVNF3UTE-JB-12iIV51Sw1ewsB9m1KouKasDv7JUcr8iT0Jz8eH2ZjfWoAXyKs5MTDBTFQr6VtnlLUUV4vnIrKjc-jODtGH9j4Anz0f6lUE7UBc0m5nGr50szLZERYfJQXs/s2048/DAF+cab.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBlXUCaB4rhVNF3UTE-JB-12iIV51Sw1ewsB9m1KouKasDv7JUcr8iT0Jz8eH2ZjfWoAXyKs5MTDBTFQr6VtnlLUUV4vnIrKjc-jODtGH9j4Anz0f6lUE7UBc0m5nGr50szLZERYfJQXs/s640/DAF+cab.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The cab and chassis of the 1:24 scale DAF 95 is now virtually complete, thanks to some improvisation with a pack of 4mm scale Highland Railway decals. After lining-out the cab in yellow, I needed some logos for a fictional UK haulage firm and managed to create Ray Haigh - a convincing-sounding name for a small-scale haulier - from the shaded Highland Railway lettering. I'm really pleased with the outcome, not least as it saved me the hassle and expense of tracking down existing 1:24 decals or commissioning a bespoke set. All that's needed now is to fill in the lower side panels with a phone number and I've just found some likely yellow digits from another pack of railway decals, this time for a modern intermodal container. It goes to show that you should never throw spare decals away, as you never know when they might come in handy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Once the cab is complete, it can be weathered and final assembly commence. The replacement wheels and hubs have been painted and are also due for the weathering treatment before being installed onto the chassis. That will just leave the rear cargo body and I'm currently undecided about whether to use the kit's canvas body or create something a little different, such as a scratch-built flatbed...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">... after starting the DAF over 18months ago, I'm tempted to stick with the kit body in an effort to get the model finished sooner. Then, I can move on to finishing some of the other projects I have on the go.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKPvRS63P3ziUcK0jgC-RQGrPORc77a3LWMpYHq0jEVN5WWgDfF2yD5m82iCWGquOfD3M4dPW9I2Y96YqSk6rU3D5-gqOvmPV0b4A1-RRrW-mCzl-jMtcEAGrbcGwxSosSpx8dxOi0C4/s2048/DAF95+pic+75.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1509" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEKPvRS63P3ziUcK0jgC-RQGrPORc77a3LWMpYHq0jEVN5WWgDfF2yD5m82iCWGquOfD3M4dPW9I2Y96YqSk6rU3D5-gqOvmPV0b4A1-RRrW-mCzl-jMtcEAGrbcGwxSosSpx8dxOi0C4/s640/DAF95+pic+75.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-77528180840691304832020-08-28T13:44:00.002+01:002020-08-28T13:44:25.428+01:00RUST TRIALS<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwk64LSG4QPQ4Ma0lTtxkwD5BKrgy8CnQWVpzWXCc5mfanv8kGYbLszfRcAJ0Du7WEJQpypfOdcBYHdub-F9V2HDmd4osZ5XwFELZJzfNdUaIJO3yf_jb8x6oxcCW-Bqp-7u8qlv0evU/s2048/Rust+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" height="535" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixwk64LSG4QPQ4Ma0lTtxkwD5BKrgy8CnQWVpzWXCc5mfanv8kGYbLszfRcAJ0Du7WEJQpypfOdcBYHdub-F9V2HDmd4osZ5XwFELZJzfNdUaIJO3yf_jb8x6oxcCW-Bqp-7u8qlv0evU/w800-h535/Rust+1.jpg" width="800" /></a></div><p>Yesterday, I managed to find a spare couple of hours to play around with a useful stencil set from the Artool range. My aim was to produce layers of random rust/corrosion effects on a sheet of plastic, with an eye on creating realistic loads of sheet steel for an 'O' gauge railway wagon. I've had this Artool stencil for a while now, but haven't had much time to fully explore its potential until now and, after a few different attempts, I think I'm getting to grips with it.</p><p>After preparing the plastic with a red oxide primer, a random mix of rust and brown shades were airbrushed over the surface. When it was touch-dry, the stencil was placed on top and slightly different shades of paint were airbrushed through it, in a fine misting action. By moving the stencil around and altering the paint shades, an endlessly random array of shapes and tones can be created.</p><p>The effect (seen above) looks a little strange to begin with. However, once the paint has dried, the finish can be refined - and extra texture introduced - with careful use of dry pigments, applied by hand with a variety of different brush sizes. </p><p>My first attempt is illustrated here and I'm fairly pleased with the results. The beauty of the Artool stencil and the various paint shades employed, means that no two workpieces are likely to look the same, which is just what I'm hoping for. I can see this method proving useful for all manner of weathering jobs, especially for industrial buildings and scenes. </p><p>A large range of airbrush stencils are available in the Artool range, distributed in the UK by <a href="www.airbrushes.com" target="_blank">The Airbrush Company</a>.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5MBTywyODcMXqwgN6AMvTpCNVRb1k8nsg2taH5rvA2v3-mLtqf_LEW7X5gqQ1tHv_RpY2hHxw0cvO7qGxyx7hdPgY1jyyoMw-K7hB4t23K_IwXcHP40X51b0LJBAZLkCFpcqMHXCxkQ/s2048/Rust+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5MBTywyODcMXqwgN6AMvTpCNVRb1k8nsg2taH5rvA2v3-mLtqf_LEW7X5gqQ1tHv_RpY2hHxw0cvO7qGxyx7hdPgY1jyyoMw-K7hB4t23K_IwXcHP40X51b0LJBAZLkCFpcqMHXCxkQ/s640/Rust+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEx2MnmjXaSJZV40i-itxsMswpbsM957uq5IRogNmtQiSdygYtDZydRSYTn20PCSFcGw5SfZmm76lhvbyVaoL2LBf02U2599U-7vVdVyLEK8plug2EGaAhUpepXbb_KqK-fW9xoB8z_Nc/s2048/Rust+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1371" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEx2MnmjXaSJZV40i-itxsMswpbsM957uq5IRogNmtQiSdygYtDZydRSYTn20PCSFcGw5SfZmm76lhvbyVaoL2LBf02U2599U-7vVdVyLEK8plug2EGaAhUpepXbb_KqK-fW9xoB8z_Nc/s640/Rust+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-77779681860032779922020-08-13T09:53:00.000+01:002020-08-13T09:53:10.211+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 4<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhhqqeI29pzdS9u5kA-O7IhrSw-U7rRCtaV91HbEDuQUs4kbICuQj5D225WlRRpl097y4-x883_DMZFDiZTc80rq5VjHDhs-h1v1omG42za3IM2ShKeqAG2KM365wz8LKBk-mMstnLYM/s2048/DAF95+pic+65+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1519" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIhhqqeI29pzdS9u5kA-O7IhrSw-U7rRCtaV91HbEDuQUs4kbICuQj5D225WlRRpl097y4-x883_DMZFDiZTc80rq5VjHDhs-h1v1omG42za3IM2ShKeqAG2KM365wz8LKBk-mMstnLYM/s640/DAF95+pic+65+blog.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p>Another progress update on my DAF 95 project:</p><p>The chassis is coming along well, with a set of resin replacement wheels prepared for painting and the fuel tank finally completed and ready for fitting to the frames. The tank took quite a lot of work to get right, as the various separate elements (it's made up of 9 different parts) didn't fit together very well. So, lots of filling and sanding and filling and sanding... you get the picture! Metallic finishes can be unforgiving, so it was important to put the work into getting the surfaces as neat and smooth as possible. I've also weathered it before fitting it to the chassis, to make life easier.</p><p>The resin wheel rims and hubs are from <a href="https://www.kitformservices.com/" target="_blank">Kit Form Service</a>s and they're far superior to the original kit parts. The driving axle hubs even have DAF logos in the centre, so I'm looking forward to getting these painted, weathered and installed.</p><p>As the image above shows, I've also been working on the cab interior, which has been converted to right-hand drive, courtesy of a resin casting (also from KFS) and a detailed dashboard. Check out the tasteful seat and bunk covers! I've also made my own miniature maps and newspapers and magazines. I'm thinking of adding some other bits and pieces, such as folded blankets, a flask and so on.</p><p>The exterior of the cab is taking shape and is currently being decorated, but more about that at a later date...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzSEpwgTlcQPRDwY_L9Ufkbi2Z4dTwnpL43JaZW2TUhXB-SR3kPtM4DPKn9Q1RDVBBXZJHS7rQIF8SsObK1pxLzKiojak3_qGUuRwnl8a2j-Sis6EiMAd7xtIz6Sy7JyFzPaLsMc5oU0/s2048/DAF95+pic+68x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1590" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkzSEpwgTlcQPRDwY_L9Ufkbi2Z4dTwnpL43JaZW2TUhXB-SR3kPtM4DPKn9Q1RDVBBXZJHS7rQIF8SsObK1pxLzKiojak3_qGUuRwnl8a2j-Sis6EiMAd7xtIz6Sy7JyFzPaLsMc5oU0/s640/DAF95+pic+68x.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzx2TegD9ZPq4b9USGnRpbm06mfNxrQOqUEZk65Dy8tvb_mauFx2ok6G63nP4j_HKSbzSpIJ1GnlMaxJ-uR2Ez4WLPytIqOwRjMUM2Tf_8JB0MSL_dHp97LnuJmfJriEvt9TgiILAwYb0/s2048/DAF95+pic+71x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1508" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzx2TegD9ZPq4b9USGnRpbm06mfNxrQOqUEZk65Dy8tvb_mauFx2ok6G63nP4j_HKSbzSpIJ1GnlMaxJ-uR2Ez4WLPytIqOwRjMUM2Tf_8JB0MSL_dHp97LnuJmfJriEvt9TgiILAwYb0/s640/DAF95+pic+71x.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3GBG4zU0Yrcs-WMGPq_U2Povbs5VvpoJ7s-xX02ejuNzjcLEiw47R-kycMO3XISjlpcYnmbDJuIRHEBINWXhZCGam3Qvk3uh1tq6naSLPS5lvBQ5xYObBu_oTHDpxbpr8ZT4s7YmBec/s2048/DAF95+pic+72x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1565" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz3GBG4zU0Yrcs-WMGPq_U2Povbs5VvpoJ7s-xX02ejuNzjcLEiw47R-kycMO3XISjlpcYnmbDJuIRHEBINWXhZCGam3Qvk3uh1tq6naSLPS5lvBQ5xYObBu_oTHDpxbpr8ZT4s7YmBec/s640/DAF95+pic+72x.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <p></p>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-44837730212461933962020-08-07T06:00:00.001+01:002020-08-07T06:00:03.421+01:00MERCEDES ACTROS MP3 COMPLETE<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveH0J32X7QHZtqQKsPnzsRAiXWp3oNmFdqZgF4EKEJkLTcH43gb4RevepEggQDJSJBuWnYVw6__RXmOe-Yai9bzV5lM9Ey9w1phckprCOGPrwDoS0y0iSuptjbk-3U-eLIRn7NPcwS7s/s2048/Actros+fin+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1556" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhveH0J32X7QHZtqQKsPnzsRAiXWp3oNmFdqZgF4EKEJkLTcH43gb4RevepEggQDJSJBuWnYVw6__RXmOe-Yai9bzV5lM9Ey9w1phckprCOGPrwDoS0y0iSuptjbk-3U-eLIRn7NPcwS7s/s640/Actros+fin+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Having described the chassis in a <a href="https://georgedentmodelmaker.blogspot.com/2020/08/mercedes-actros.html" target="_blank">previous post</a>, here's a selection of images of the finished Actros MP3. The native American decals were supplied with the <a href="https://www.revell.de/en/home/" target="_blank">Revell</a> kit and are, perhaps, a little incongruous on a German truck, but they do look fabulous. As someone with a passion for horses, the imagery definitely appeals to me. The decals took the best part of a day to apply, having to be cut into sections to cope with the door panels more effectively. I also flirted with disaster at one point, as the final clear coats were applied using a formula that I'd never tried before - never a good idea - and the medium didn't behave as anticipated. Thankfully, I managed to rescue the situation and, helped by Tamiya's range of polishing compounds - which I intended to use anyway - the cab's finish is virtually flawless. </div><div><br /></div><div>Oh, and don't ask me about the windscreen that snapped in half during installation. Thank heavens I had a second kit in stock. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJ_i66mnRK6-q-6hA8pp_bSaJHKi0O5LQGqPxim1GAJoHKQ-jkiVuAcgPVx3uaNQkxKRWOXtAiOeFCskvD5Zsk2Ph-qm19kUV3SLfjAZdtHdIOH7c2OpOnLHWW_-3Ne7o4xIZqvIXN50/s2048/Actros+fin+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1480" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJ_i66mnRK6-q-6hA8pp_bSaJHKi0O5LQGqPxim1GAJoHKQ-jkiVuAcgPVx3uaNQkxKRWOXtAiOeFCskvD5Zsk2Ph-qm19kUV3SLfjAZdtHdIOH7c2OpOnLHWW_-3Ne7o4xIZqvIXN50/s640/Actros+fin+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Given the challenging circumstances of the UK lockdown and interrupted access to my workshop, I'm extremely pleased with how this project turned out. The small enhancements to the Revell kit, such as the resin tyres and customised tread panels atop the chassis, plus the home-made suzie cables and plugs, have added an extra touch of class to what is already a top-class kit. </div><div><br /></div><div>Now I really must finish those other truck kits...</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3MZNNiPV53tMjiGMHHy8vVUhCC5ik7HVK2onj9jd6kUvfOm0Aj6P8NnrfkDLZhuwWMwpMODUGOV92iciUTgR1ZushdaJVnG-htC9fQ8_dwl4fBl9WD5WpSQbIPhFKJ0KTp17xrTG07c/s2048/Actros+fin+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1463" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc3MZNNiPV53tMjiGMHHy8vVUhCC5ik7HVK2onj9jd6kUvfOm0Aj6P8NnrfkDLZhuwWMwpMODUGOV92iciUTgR1ZushdaJVnG-htC9fQ8_dwl4fBl9WD5WpSQbIPhFKJ0KTp17xrTG07c/s640/Actros+fin+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNT9NdwdC6gkFGciJoTP1kQMZ9iQ6UvY9ozj7o20sRCUm5KNxnffFJpT9xGxe1jAzPVry1MUwxE555fI3GFg4MYrfP5u0VPFaYDDD5YnUmFPmTr8cynfeublO8bOl19hGfM_WrtERZDvo/s2048/Actros+fin+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1614" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNT9NdwdC6gkFGciJoTP1kQMZ9iQ6UvY9ozj7o20sRCUm5KNxnffFJpT9xGxe1jAzPVry1MUwxE555fI3GFg4MYrfP5u0VPFaYDDD5YnUmFPmTr8cynfeublO8bOl19hGfM_WrtERZDvo/s640/Actros+fin+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-87927292993614289232020-08-04T12:01:00.001+01:002020-08-04T12:01:26.218+01:00MERCEDES ACTROS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2lZkmXRHCLlBhbpzdEbsDKsY8f0enEQSp6VMkXGweMUir9XA0cDnjTXr6Wk8-_KIQFX-NU8c_y_RGJQZefXvaSaOBxTZ09xNj9_zWFoayTH-K3XhjYLX3Zt3i4li89YCCcmHpNPHKjM/s2048/Actros+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2lZkmXRHCLlBhbpzdEbsDKsY8f0enEQSp6VMkXGweMUir9XA0cDnjTXr6Wk8-_KIQFX-NU8c_y_RGJQZefXvaSaOBxTZ09xNj9_zWFoayTH-K3XhjYLX3Zt3i4li89YCCcmHpNPHKjM/s640/Actros+2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Another of my 1:24 truck building projects is nearing completion. In contrast to others I could mention, which have been ongoing for a couple of years, this one has been more of a concentrated effort. Indeed, work has been going on for about two months so far, on and off. The subject is <a href="https://www.revell.de/en/home/" target="_blank">Revell's</a> Mercedes Actros MP3 kit (also available in <a href="https://www.italeri.com/" target="_blank">Italeri's</a> range), which is a superb package. My brief was to build the Actros in showroom condition, with a metallic silver paint job to the cab and using the amazing decals supplied with this particular release, which feature a variety of native American figures and scenes (more about that in a later post). </div><div><br /></div><div>However, here are some images of the various chassis and engine sub-assemblies, before and after they were fixed together. An awful lot of work has gone into these elements, especially in terms of creating subtle contrasts between the various metallic finishes. The engine alone was treated with half a dozen different Alclad2 and Darkstar metallic paints. And the fuel tank seemed to take an age to get right, eliminating the unsightly seam between the two halves completely. Pristine, shiny metallic finishes can be unforgiving of any surface imperfections and I'm not going to be able to use weathering as a 'cure' for any tardiness.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8rjd2tqHwLNSGQONGhMMH28DEuKDPHDHlvvWeyrY9CKNBtZ95p3s_fW2LSTQgxG8f_KG-B9TgaNl92RI6cu7Ts7Xhzm-taAaVwMgPdY5nszdiy11QseZt3IdqdadhCCgIpca1A5nFOM/s2048/Actros+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1663" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8rjd2tqHwLNSGQONGhMMH28DEuKDPHDHlvvWeyrY9CKNBtZ95p3s_fW2LSTQgxG8f_KG-B9TgaNl92RI6cu7Ts7Xhzm-taAaVwMgPdY5nszdiy11QseZt3IdqdadhCCgIpca1A5nFOM/s640/Actros+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Funnily enough, the fuel tank will be largely hidden by the air-smoothing skirts and tread panel in due course, but if a job's worth doing, it's worth doing well, as they say. Things always get exciting once a truck chassis nears completion and the replacement resin tyres (from <a href="https://www.kitformservices.com/" target="_blank">KFS</a>) look fantastic. My usual preference is to install an array of pipework and cabling to the frames, but that wasn't specified for this particular job. There's also an issue regarding a lack of an AdBlue tank with this kit. While this could've been scratch built or a resin casting obtained, again, this wasn't in my brief, so I haven't had to worry about it. </div><div><br /></div><div>Next job is to get the cab ready and install it... watch this space.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVcylhpkLlLnlXMNe_npfynb4BN1l2UTftFnQHIzPWyNWinhR4vvYS0DNgjBeXZSPdsobQiNlMszdybdxojNEb75Py64JF80RhM5fj09XV0llyK8YjDgqcVAOJ1qjpMe9HmqqCwZpTQE/s2048/Actros+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1457" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKVcylhpkLlLnlXMNe_npfynb4BN1l2UTftFnQHIzPWyNWinhR4vvYS0DNgjBeXZSPdsobQiNlMszdybdxojNEb75Py64JF80RhM5fj09XV0llyK8YjDgqcVAOJ1qjpMe9HmqqCwZpTQE/s640/Actros+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJydi2wF4wVCn3Xwb1_T2iMP6OdNfQ_mnL3pCnHF1rYtWZKzCC6kyMSdsjItcromoKLyu6X3ZNSyJsAJkveU5mbYqsdNU-oQXaKSdw2NdOCPkZFaoqR-dnQGvOoVzOrk2XhvnrIozrGq0/s2048/Actros+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1549" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJydi2wF4wVCn3Xwb1_T2iMP6OdNfQ_mnL3pCnHF1rYtWZKzCC6kyMSdsjItcromoKLyu6X3ZNSyJsAJkveU5mbYqsdNU-oQXaKSdw2NdOCPkZFaoqR-dnQGvOoVzOrk2XhvnrIozrGq0/s640/Actros+5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-85688271650790323752020-07-22T08:11:00.000+01:002020-07-22T08:11:37.281+01:00A WATER MILL DIORAMA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQYdoW_msRHHnjxhY-vzOflqJNv5iNY-KrdGqvQVLglgHI-sRs7R7YuhRRuK-EiRk-TPgAd1GDA6X7roLnlA_8A4RJNTEK4kagblpIgehrJO1IR6jxVXu-IpgXQVRjqD_rnZn4Q3Zao8/s1600/Mill+fin+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1190" data-original-width="1600" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQYdoW_msRHHnjxhY-vzOflqJNv5iNY-KrdGqvQVLglgHI-sRs7R7YuhRRuK-EiRk-TPgAd1GDA6X7roLnlA_8A4RJNTEK4kagblpIgehrJO1IR6jxVXu-IpgXQVRjqD_rnZn4Q3Zao8/s640/Mill+fin+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I don't seem to have done much modelling for <a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk/" target="_blank">Model Rail </a>mag recently, with my time being taken up with lots of editorial/admin/planning stuff. So it's been good to get a bit of practical work under my belt over the past month, in the form of this little water mill diorama. Rendered in 'OO' gauge, it uses a Wills plastic kit as the basis - which provides materials to build the mill, walls, sluice gates and footbridge. After assembling and painting those elements, I set about sculpting a suitable landform and riverbed from layers of foam board and plaster.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxXWbOrbOI3dYVV9fyumqmhaCNUF1gPTn-VrRElIu2jSt-nQsKm0m5pODQlGgCZND6w-Mieps2t1Zzs27yf6uIrPqMvfEoNBX30-tKyyKYdvudwPHghG2A6FOK412PBNEPF0XFszBWi8/s1600/IMG_20200717_142853_627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVxXWbOrbOI3dYVV9fyumqmhaCNUF1gPTn-VrRElIu2jSt-nQsKm0m5pODQlGgCZND6w-Mieps2t1Zzs27yf6uIrPqMvfEoNBX30-tKyyKYdvudwPHghG2A6FOK412PBNEPF0XFszBWi8/s640/IMG_20200717_142853_627.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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The river is on two levels, with the sluice gates acting as a dam, so there was the need for some white water effects around the gates and water wheel. Modelling water is something I do very rarely, so it proved to be a welcome challenge. The 'base' water was formed with <a href="https://deluxematerials.co.uk/" target="_blank">Deluxe Materials</a>' Aqua Magic, poured in several layers, with a few days in between for hardening. The torrents, waves and splashing effects were created with Scenic Fibres and Making Waves (also <a href="https://deluxematerials.co.uk/" target="_blank">Deluxe Materials</a>).<br />
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There was a lot of time and effort involved, with long waits needed while the various layers of 'water' cured, but I'm really pleased with the final results. Certainly the best water scene I've done so far!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC587-m4RzfcCTXV-z-2KImLLLuZ9mzcxZslJbZCgIemfXBj-zgUhbHR8Nyg5rzDz4Hi2n5nmApVv2SbM3QFfQPV4YmcVF0bNKC8dl5Fq7nbYL_pUfQPh52x0csR9SfAnzh1edK95q0c/s1600/Mill+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1233" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZC587-m4RzfcCTXV-z-2KImLLLuZ9mzcxZslJbZCgIemfXBj-zgUhbHR8Nyg5rzDz4Hi2n5nmApVv2SbM3QFfQPV4YmcVF0bNKC8dl5Fq7nbYL_pUfQPh52x0csR9SfAnzh1edK95q0c/s640/Mill+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Eagle-eyed readers may recognise the mill building from Model Rail magazine, issue 276 (July 2020), as I built it for the Skills Station section. Being one of Wills' 'Constructor' kits, it's basically just a set of building materials, leaving the modeller to cut the walls to shape and form all of the apertures before everything is brought together. Sort of an aid-to-scratchbuilding rather than a 'proper' kit. Having spent a few weeks on this building, it's satisfying to see it on a diorama rather than simply disappearing into a box.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHIqt97RKFxpcaXJ1Rf4eQAUv1FE4zJVoP3_pKSnp85Tw2UHANYxu7O8JX8PXuBPgbX1XbQBgI8rgAVAekeJ0W9Hh5mjzDinKGeM-qrINKxUxtg3u1H0gv_lGI6VEW5dPfxpDazORIHw/s1600/Mill+fin+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1115" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCHIqt97RKFxpcaXJ1Rf4eQAUv1FE4zJVoP3_pKSnp85Tw2UHANYxu7O8JX8PXuBPgbX1XbQBgI8rgAVAekeJ0W9Hh5mjzDinKGeM-qrINKxUxtg3u1H0gv_lGI6VEW5dPfxpDazORIHw/s640/Mill+fin+2.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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You can see the full demo of how I made this diorama in the next issue of <a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk/" target="_blank">Model Rail</a> magazine (MR277), on sale August 6th.<br />
<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-43661175509072865782020-07-20T04:00:00.000+01:002020-07-20T04:00:01.432+01:00FORD LTL9000 PROGRESS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZFvsFIPixX-0AKHG4csDpp8uezlq7aL5FYtX8I5JxFXLwwqtn58gjD14WKO4iH9ZCRGaxuVfN3igAnfbZbruK9qWe9AdWWwPhupCIDed8GiSXIc9QABi7RQ5R8H7MLUceZlkA5NE7LU/s1600/Ford+1+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1087" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ZFvsFIPixX-0AKHG4csDpp8uezlq7aL5FYtX8I5JxFXLwwqtn58gjD14WKO4iH9ZCRGaxuVfN3igAnfbZbruK9qWe9AdWWwPhupCIDed8GiSXIc9QABi7RQ5R8H7MLUceZlkA5NE7LU/s640/Ford+1+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Like the DAF 95 kit mentioned in recent weeks, this is another 1:24 Italeri kit that got packed up last summer before we moved house. This is a Ford LTL9000 and, since unpacking it a few weeks back, I've managed to get the chassis finished, adding mud guards and fuel tank, as well as finishing off the resin replacement wheels (which look fantastic!). Work has now turned to the bodywork and the cab interior is complete, while the exterior shell and bonnet are almost ready for painting.<br />
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Originally, the kit was a recovery/wrecker truck, but I'm building it as a modified tractor unit, minus the sleeper cab and with a hydraulic crane. Eventually I'd like to build a flat bed trailer to accompany the truck and give the crane something to lift! But that's a long term goal. The crane took a little time to get right, with hydraulic hoses added from flexible cable. Painting it should be interesting - I couldn't decide whether it would be easier to paint it in sections before final assembly, or as a whole unit. As you can see, I decided to try the latter approach... I hope I don't regret it.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-39495772362988006452020-07-17T08:00:00.000+01:002020-07-17T08:00:19.487+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well, I did say recently that I was determined to finish some of my part-built kits, so I'm pleased to report more progress on the Italeri 1:24 scale DAF 95 truck. The chassis weathering is virtually complete and engine, transmission, cooling and exhaust systems installed permanently. It's getting exciting now, seeing all of these sub-assemblies coming together after so long, especially as most of them have been built in different parts of the country, over an 18month period. Indeed, one of the aspects of these big kits that I enjoy is the ability to spend plenty of time concentrating on a small element, as a weekend/holiday/hotel-room-on-a-works-trip project, providing some welcome distraction.<br />
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The chassis weathering consisted of various stages, featuring various oil and enamel washes, dry pigments, dry-brushing and some targeted airbrush work, taking about 20hours in total. Next jobs include finishing off the fuel tank and the wheels, then my attention can turn to the cab.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-28978112004848614392020-07-15T18:26:00.000+01:002020-07-15T18:26:11.250+01:00I MUST BE DAF(T) 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Doesn't time fly? I started this Italeri DAF 95 truck kit well over a year ago, although everything ground to a halt due to our relocation last summer. The extensive chassis had been built and the engine detailed, but that's as far as I got. However, I've been slowly working through some of my unfinished projects and have managed to get the frames painted and a start made on the weathering process. There's so much work to put into these large scale truck kits, with an endless list of separate parts to prepare, enhance, paint and weather. Now that I've got a bit of momentum going, I'm determined to get this - and a few other part-built kits - finished over the coming months.<br />
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I've also been busy moving workshop over the past few weeks, upgrading to a larger space, so there's finally room for these projects to remain accessible while I continue with my day job, providing me with some welcome variety.<br />
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The shiny red frames are slowly disappearing under a layer of grime and I've posed them with a few of the kit wheels for now. I'm replacing these with a mix of resin rims and hubs, which should look far superior. Most of the weathering needs to be done before many of the sub assemblies are installed properly, including the engine/gearbox, fuel tank, air cleaner etc, with each being treated in isolation.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-33592984996083387342020-06-16T10:12:00.000+01:002020-06-16T10:12:13.020+01:00ZIL-131<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've had a longstanding interest in Soviet era trucks and have been stashing away various kits over the years. What better time to start building kits than now?!<br />
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This is a 1:72 scale ICM kit, of a ZIL-131, a very important prototype that entered production in the 1960s. Designed with military use in mind, it was also pitched at civilian users and featured a six-wheel drive transmission and an incredibly flexible suspension system. All manner of variants appeared, from tankers to tractor units and production numbers were impressive for both the home and export markets.<br />
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The ICM kit is really good, with the parts cleanly moulded and featuring a wealth of detail. There's no engine, save for an outline of the underside that protrudes from the chassis, but the cab interior is nicely appointed and the complex suspension and transmission is rendered in full.<br />
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The colour scheme was applied with Tamiya aerosol paints - not an approach I usually follow on smaller models, as its easy to drown fine detail under a heavy coat of paint. However, a very careful application of light coats proved successful and a subtle weathering job finished things off nicely.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-52608868245813598902020-06-11T08:13:00.000+01:002020-06-11T08:13:00.180+01:00CROSFIELDS CROSSING 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This scratch-built 4mm scale signal box is now complete. I haven't built anything like this from scratch for a few years, so it's been an interesting project which has also brought back some memories of the real location. I can almost smell the soap powder from Crosfields Works... Having set myself the task of building this signal box, in a fairly short time, using only what materials I had to hand, I think it's turned out really well. There's a few elements I'd like to improve at some point, especially the interior, once I've done a little more research, but it's an important first step towards a small model railway project based on Crosfields works. Next job, is to start thinking about potential track plans.</div>
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The building of this signal box, with a little prototype history, appears in the new issue of <a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk/" target="_blank">Model Rail</a> magazine (issue 275), out now.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-62620556652555436462020-06-08T07:58:00.000+01:002020-06-08T07:59:48.535+01:00CROSFIELDS CROSSING 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Having abandoned my original plan for fabricating individual window panels, I stumbled across a sheet of printed acetate glazing from a Hornby motive power depot kit. The vertical glazing bars are the correct spacing, so I've added the missing horizontal elements using white electrical insulation tape cut into thin strips. Having painted and weathered the scratch-built signal box first, the glazing has now been installed. I created separate sliding panels on the sides, so I could pose some of them open, but time is running out and the large aperture has received a single panel. However, I've only tacked the glazing in place for now as I'm thinking of commissioning a set of laser-cut plastic or etched brass windows in future, which will look so much better. <br />
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Work has shifted to the interior, with a close, straight-grained hardwood veneer employed for the flooring and a Wills interior kit assembled and painted. I've had to guess most of the interior layout for now but, again, everything can be changed in future once I've had time to do a little more research, but the onus now is on getting the thing finished.<br />
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A set of finials for the gable ends have been crafted from epoxy putty, cocktail sticks and plastic strip and a name sign fabricated from individual plastic letters (Slaters). Just a few little things to add now before the roof can be slotted in position. Can you spot the obligatory cat...?<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-51868073416644090452020-06-04T07:42:00.000+01:002020-06-08T08:00:09.209+01:00CROSFIELDS CROSSING 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Me and my <a href="http://www.model-rail.co.uk/" target="_blank">Model Rail</a> magazine colleagues had been discussing ideas for our 'dream' layouts recently. My longstanding dream has been to recreate Warrington Bank Quay and the adjacent Arpley Yard, as this was where I did most of my trainspotting in the 1980s. But that requires an enormous amount of space. However, I did start to think about the low level line that runs underneath Bank Quay station towards Ditton/Widnes in the west. Freight-only since the 1960s, it was busy with coal trains to Fiddlers Ferry power station until very recently. Indeed, I used to walk and cycle parallel to this line for many years and have strong memories of the trains and local architecture.<br />
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Recreating part of this line, with the canal running beside it would be fun. Moreover, there was a swing bridge over the canal at Sankey Bridges which would make a very interesting layout feature. Next, the line passed Monks Hall steel works and, after that, it ran through the middle of Crosfields soap works. A public right of way has also existed through the works, on the banks of the River Mersey, so I often used to hang around and watch the coal trains weave amongst the pipes and factory buildings, passing a number of signal boxes and level crossings in quick succession.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b1/Crosfields_Crossing_(2321838855).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" height="512" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b1/Crosfields_Crossing_(2321838855).jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Wikimedia Commons - Credit: Ingy The Wingy (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)</td></tr>
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With a bit of creative thinking, Crosfields Crossing could form the centre point for a compact layout, with the factory buildings providing a striking backdrop. There was once a few sidings here too, which could be included and a variety of freight trains could pass through the scene, including coal, steel, cement and chemical traffic.<br />
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The more I thought about this idea, the more I wanted to have a go. Without time and space to start building baseboards at the moment, a start was made on a scratch-built rendition of the signal box, based largely on photographs found online. I know that the ex-LNWR structure boasts 6ft tall windows, so the rest of the building's proportions weren't too difficult to work out. Luckily, I had all the necessary stock materials already, although a few extra bits and pieces have had to be improvised.<br />
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Built around a basic plastic card structure, textured overlay sheets have been added for the brick and timber sections. I took care to ensure that the brick courses tally at each corner, with the aid of a profile cutting tool. The same tool also allowed me to create my own tongue-and-groove timber doors and panels. Roof tiles are laser-cut, self-adhesive strips from <a href="http://www.yorkmodelrail.com/" target="_blank">York Modelmaking</a>.<br />
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Everything went along swimmingly until I came to fabricate the windows. My original plan of joining strips of plastic, using a simple jig, worked ok, but the process proved too slow (and tedious). Also, they look overly thick, so I'm looking at an alternative approach. As the magazine deadline is imminent, I need to get my skates on.<br />
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<br />George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2212570041608488781.post-31168691057171003102020-06-01T08:51:00.000+01:002020-06-01T08:51:36.371+01:00BIG MERCEDES 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After about 6 weeks of hobby time, this Italeri 1:24 scale Mercedes Benz 2238 is now complete. As explained in previous posts, there have been a few challenges along the way, in terms of the kit and my improvised working arrangements of the past two months. Without access to most of my usual tools, paints and materials, things probably took a little longer, but I'm very happy with the results, especially in terms of the finish (achieved almost entirely without an airbrush) and all the extra scratch-built details.<br />
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I'd have liked to created a more relevant identity for the truck, with logos and markings, rather than using a variety of spare decals from other kits. But, to be honest, I was getting impatient to finish the truck and the whole project had been undertaken with a spirit of fun rather than slavishly recreating a specific prototype.<br />
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Aside from 'day job' projects currently on the go, I'm also trying to finish another 1:24 truck - a <a href="http://georgedentmodelmaker.blogspot.com/2019/02/i-must-be-daft.html" target="_blank">DAF 95</a>, featuring a scratch-built flat bed conversion. More of that anon...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-FOeunIErRCp_0K67S8kIjYP3sACs4s2tdp4-qlBq3BcQsdGzeSQRFSXNZaR8coewzywNxWCAErThMHeqLvYSN3E18_nVHrodJQdcKhcFsUZUW7rKU41QhTBbdkO2V89oOc4sPkeyLU/s1600/Pi+2+blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_-FOeunIErRCp_0K67S8kIjYP3sACs4s2tdp4-qlBq3BcQsdGzeSQRFSXNZaR8coewzywNxWCAErThMHeqLvYSN3E18_nVHrodJQdcKhcFsUZUW7rKU41QhTBbdkO2V89oOc4sPkeyLU/s640/Pi+2+blog.jpg" width="640" /></a>George Denthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13636120634078363608noreply@blogger.com9