Chloe Zhang
Plastic model kits are a fun and absorbing hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With a tremendous amount of accuracy and detail, these kits allow you to fully customise your model car. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are endless ways to modify and improve your model car, from adding a spoiler to lowering the suspension. With the right tools and some creativity, patience, and accuracy, you can turn a box of moulded plastic parts into a museum-worthy masterpiece.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Model Car Type | Die-cast, plastic kits, build 'n' play, snap-together |
| Tools | Rotary tool, drill, knife, sandpaper, spray paint, clear tape, hobby/utility knife, superglue, staples, permanent marker, clear hard plastic packaging |
| Modifications | Repaint, add carbon-fiber hood/splitter/spoiler, lower the car, remove metal rivets, disassemble and reassemble parts |
| Tips | Always dry fit, measure accurately to avoid mistakes, sand off bubbles, remove as much paint as possible before repainting |
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What You'll Learn
Modifying suspension for lowering vehicles
Modifying suspension systems to lower vehicles is a common practice among model kit enthusiasts, as ride heights often look too high compared to their real-life counterparts. This process requires careful planning and execution to ensure the desired results are achieved.
The first step is to mock up the suspension using the desired wheels. This setup will provide a visual reference for the desired height reduction. It is recommended to use a tube or a rod, or any object that helps visualise how much the suspension needs to be lowered. Once the desired height is determined, the next step is to measure and mark the suspension components for modification.
The original suspension setup is then modified by cutting the top of the suspension part using a photo etch saw. After cutting, it is essential to clean up the cut surface to ensure a smooth finish. A flat surface can be achieved by using a fine nail file, which also prepares the surface for priming and painting.
The next step involves gluing a 1.6mm rod to the top of the modified suspension part. Clamps can be used to hold the rod in place while the glue dries. Once the glue has set, the loosely fitted part can be attached to the chassis to assess the height reduction at one corner of the vehicle.
To fill the gap between the suspension and the lower arm, a 3.2mm tube is glued to the suspension part. It is important to ensure that the edge of the tube is flat for a secure connection. After the glue has dried, the tube can be marked and cut to the appropriate length using the previously determined reference object. A round file can then be used to enlarge the opening of the lower arm, allowing the 1.6mm rod to fit through smoothly.
By following these steps, the suspension of the plastic model car can be successfully modified to achieve a lower ride height. This process enhances the realism of the model, bringing it closer to the appearance of its real-life inspiration.
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Removing paint with a knife and sandpaper
Removing paint from plastic model cars is an essential step in the modification process, as you need to start with a blank canvas to achieve the best results. Here are some detailed instructions on how to remove paint with a knife and sandpaper:
Start by finding the right supplies to avoid damaging your model. Choose a knife with a sharp edge that is comfortable to hold and manoeuvre. A craft knife or a hobby knife with interchangeable blades is ideal. You will also need sandpaper in varying grits, from coarse to fine. The coarse grit will be used for initial paint removal, while the finer grits will help smooth the surface and refine the finish.
Begin by scraping away the paint with your chosen knife. Work slowly and carefully to avoid scratching the underlying plastic surface. Take your time and try to remove as much paint as possible with the knife. Once you have removed the bulk of the paint, switch to the coarse-grit sandpaper and gently sand the surface to remove any remaining paint. Always sand in the direction of the grain, if applicable, and be mindful not to apply too much pressure, which could damage the plastic.
After the majority of the paint has been removed, move on to finer-grit sandpaper. This step will help you smooth out any scratches or marks left by the coarser grit. Again, work carefully and patiently, following the direction of the grain. Finally, finish the process by buffing the surface with an ultra-fine grit sandpaper. This last step will give your model a smooth, refined finish, ready for the next steps of your modification process.
Remember, removing paint with a knife and sandpaper requires patience and a gentle touch. Take your time to ensure you do not damage the plastic surface of your model car. With the right tools and dedication, you can achieve a beautiful, blank canvas to work on.
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Adding a spoiler with staples and glue
Adding a spoiler to a plastic model car can be done using staples and glue. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Prepare the Spoiler and the Car Surface:
Start by gathering the necessary materials: a spoiler, staples, glue, and, optionally, sandpaper and paint. If needed, lightly sand the area on the car body where the spoiler will be attached. This will create a rough surface for better glue adhesion. If the car body has a clear coat, consider using a clear paint, such as Tamiya acrylic brush-on clear paint, on the attachment area to avoid compatibility issues with the glue. You can also paint the bottom of the spoiler with a thin layer of clear paint to enhance adhesion.
Positioning the Spoiler:
Determine the exact position of the spoiler on the car body. If your spoiler has pre-applied adhesive tape, remove the protective backing and position the spoiler carefully, as the adhesive tape will be challenging to adjust once it makes contact with the surface. If using glue, apply a small amount to the bottom of the spoiler or the designated areas on the car body.
Attaching the Spoiler:
Firmly press the spoiler onto the car body, holding it in place for several minutes to ensure proper adhesion. If using adhesive tape, you can use a blow dryer to soften the adhesive before attachment and then again right after to enhance adhesion. Additionally, use painter's tape or masking tape to secure the spoiler further and hold it in place while the adhesive cures.
Securing with Staples:
While the glue or adhesive tape is curing, you can add extra security by carefully stapling the spoiler to the car body. Ensure the staples are firmly embedded in the body, but be cautious not to overshoot and damage any visible or functional parts of the model car.
Final Steps:
Once the glue or adhesive has cured, carefully remove the painter's tape or masking tape. Inspect the attachment, ensuring the spoiler is securely attached. If needed, apply additional glue or adhesive to any areas that seem unstable.
Remember, this is just one method of adding a spoiler to a plastic model car. Depending on the car's design and your personal preferences, you may also explore other attachment methods, such as adhesive tape or bolts, as mentioned in the MBWorld forums. Always handle your model car modifications with care and precision to achieve the best results.
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Drilling out metal rivets with a rotary tool
Next, select an appropriate drill bit for the job. There are special drill bits designed specifically for removing blind or pop rivets. Choose a drill bit that is smaller than the pin of the rivet. Place the drill bit against the divot in the centre of the rivet, applying steady pressure to hold the bit in place. It is important to maintain a low but steady speed while drilling through the rivet. Metal rivets require pressure rather than speed, so start slowly and maintain a consistent pace. Be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid slipping or bending the drill bit.
If the rivet starts to smoke or the drill bit struggles to maintain speed, apply more lubricant to the area. Continue drilling until the rivet head pops off. Once the head is removed, use a small punch and hammer to drive out the remaining shaft. Place the punch in the hole and tap it with a hammer to push the rivet body out.
For solid rivets, which are made of a single piece of metal clinched on both ends, the process may be more challenging. Consider using a hammer and chisel to break off the head of the rivet before drilling, or use a grinder to remove the head. Remember to always follow safety precautions and seek guidance from experts or manufacturer instructions when dealing with different types of rivets.
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Using snap-together kits for beginners
Plastic model kits are a fun and absorbing hobby for people of all ages. They are available in a variety of subjects, including cars and trucks, and can be purchased as "snap-together" kits or those requiring glue. Snap-together kits are a great way for beginners to get started with model-building.
Snap-together kits are perfect for beginners as they do not require any glue or paint for assembly and completion. They are slightly more challenging than Build 'N Play kits, which can be taken apart and rebuilt, but are still a good entry point for those new to model-building. These kits can be a fun way to spend time with kids, teaching them patience and hand-eye coordination.
The number of parts in a model kit and the difficulty of assembling them determine the skill level required for its construction. It is important to choose a kit that matches your skill level to ensure a fun and frustration-free experience. If you are a beginner, it is advisable to start with a snap-together kit before progressing to glue-together kits.
While snap-together kits do not require glue or paint, you will still need some basic tools to get started. A hobby knife and a pair of sprue cutters or "nippers" are essential for removing parts from the sprue and cleaning them up. Sprue cutters will help you remove the parts cleanly, while the knife can be used to remove "flash" (the small line of plastic where the two sides of the steel mould met) and shave down parts.
When choosing a snap-together kit, be sure to consider the size of the model. Different kits will have different scales, so the size of the completed model may vary. You can determine the size of the real-life vehicle and divide it by the scale to get an idea of the final model's size. Quick Build kits by Airfix are a great option for beginners, as they use brick-building technology similar to Lego but result in a smooth, curved exterior typical of model kits.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic model car kits are a great way to get started with this hobby. You can choose from a variety of skill levels, scales, and types of kits. The most basic kits are snap-together kits, which are more challenging to assemble but don't require glue or paint. The next step up is a glue-together kit, which is more permanent and can be painted.
Basic tools include a rotary tool with a drill and saw attachment, a sanding attachment, spray paint, clear tape, a hobby/utility knife, superglue, staples, a black permanent marker, and clear, hard packaging plastic.
To lower a plastic model car while retaining its turning function, you can cut the spindle and move it upwards. This method is easier with Revell models, while Fujimi and Tamiya models are more intricate due to their suspension design.
