Jump to content
 
  • entries
    13
  • comments
    13
  • views
    2,410

Dapol kit build

altone

Entry posted by altone

626 views

 Share

First model off the new workbench.

 

Well it's been a long time since I made any models, so here's the first.

 

A Dapol BR brake van, just one of an auction lot I bought.

 

First impression is how "messy" this kit is - lots of flash, bits broken off sprues

and the transfers look like they are well past their use by date.

 

 

IMG_0075_zpsbc1i9s7q.jpg

 

I decide not to bother pre painting or modifying the kit - just build as is.

 

So clean up all the parts and start glueing.

 

I'm using "Plastruct" plastic weld for the first time.

I'll be using the supplied brush for large surfaces and my chopstic needle for

smaller ones.

 

IMG_0094_zpsscexo5qx.jpg

 

You probably can't tell from the photo, but the end of the needle eye is ground off.

 

I'm pretty sure there are details of something similar already here on Rmweb.

If not, the Kadee catalog shows you how to make one.

 

So here's the first weld :)

 

IMG_0089_zpsodst4jno.jpg

 

Don't worry, I'm not going to be showing you step by step.

I'm sure you've all made plastic kits at some time.

Just remember to keep the glue away from visible surfaces as much as possible.

If the glue you're using says something like "excess solvent will evaporate and be unnoticable"

Let's just say their claims are umm optomistic?

 

The special modelling clamps I'm using cost $2 for 40 at a local Chinese variety store.

 

For card and fragile surfaces I use special soft jaw clamps that apparently

can be found in supermarkets.

I'm told they can also be used for drying clothes. Beats me how that works :)

 

IMG_0091_zpsyc25midu.jpg

 

I bought the LED magnifying lamp below recently from Ebay.

It came with a round pin plug, so I took it to my wife's desk to try it out as she has

a universal powerboard (fly's to China on a regular basis and has computer printer and chargers in their format)

 

I switch it on and she walks in and says "Oh thank you darling !"

 

So now I get to "borrow" it when she's not using it. <hmmph>

 

IMG_0095_zps7qxcmbga.jpg

 

No real progress today, only got 1/2 hour to myself and spent most of it on this blog entry.

 

Assembled kit - next post.

  • Like 5
 Share

2 Comments

Recommended Comments

rcmacchipilot

I just built a couple of these. I would have a look at how Bachmann's current offering has an area around the axle box cut out of the running boards, If you haven't contemplated modifying the kit. Also, its really easy to add hand rails to the kit, If you have time I would consider doing it, as it really adds another dimension to the kit. I can take some photos of mine for you if you are interested.

Link to comment
altone

Thanks rcmacchipilot

I decided to do this as an as is, because of my current lack of skill but also the fact that one of the solebars is badly warped.

 

This will be a paint test wagon and never hit the rails.

The handrails and security rails do help as you say, but for this one it just doesn't seem worth it.

 

The Triang/Hornby ones are very poor, I haven't checked out a Bachmann one yet.

 

I need say 4 of these so depending on the quality of the Bachmann I'll use it or the Dapol as a start point to do my decent BR brake vans - until then the Hornbys will suffice.

 

Which would you say are the better starting point - the Dapol or Bachmann?

Link to comment

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
×
×
  • Create New...