Building an iconic kit.

Just finished this iconic Airfix model which first appeared in 1963. It speaks volumes for the superb design of this kit, especially the JCB excavator, in that I was able to construct it with no problems, both then and now. I decided to add a few minor improvements to the original kit, such as cab glazing, styrene scotch on the outside of each tyre, and securing ropes. The Lowmac was brush painted with both enamels and acrylic paints. I replaced the Lowmac plastic wheels with metal wheels, and inserted brass top hat bearings into the rear of the axleboxes, fixing them in place with a hot soldering iron. The Lowmac was weighted with lead shot as shown in the photo. A styrene cover was applied to keep the lead shot in place, the said shot also having been affixed with superglue. Bachmann couplings were fitted. The decals are the kit originals and I'm very surprised that they are still usable after sixty or so years! This model will be appearing on my new layout 'London Road Sidings', and represents a new excavator on its way from the factory to a customer. A thoroughly enjoyable build. If anybody feels inclined to give this kit a try, I currently have one for sale on eBay (Uk only).

Terry

That's a nice kit Terry. It's amazing how these old kits survive  and still build into half decent  models.

Cheers

Matt

Thanks Matt.  Yes, with a few modifications, such as metal wheels, these old Airfix kits are comparible to modern offerings.  I note that Dapol include metal wheels in their production of these kits.

Terry

Nice looking model Terry - you wouldn't know it was  60 years old.

I'm intrigued by your comments about fitting the metal wheels and top-hat bearings.  How did you ensure the bearings were square and correctly lined up ?  I'm assuming you fitted them during construction before the sole bars were fixed to the deck……………

I have 3 or 4 of the Airfix guards vans (now Dapol) which did come with metal wheels but no brass bearings.  I'd like to retro fit some ………………………

Hello Peter.  Sorry for the late reply to your query.  I have only just noticed your last post.  I simply applied the soldering iron to the bearing and allowed it to sink into the plastic.  All done by eye.  HOWEVER, whilst doing the same with a subsequent build I made a complete hash of it with bearings pointing in all directions! I have since adopted the method of using a 2mm drill bit to open up the rear of the axlebox before assembly begins.  As to retro fitting, this might assist you:

Axlebox Bearing Cutting Tool for 4mm Wagons & Coaches

Terry

That does look good, Terry. As Peter said, you'd not think it was 60 years old and the transfer still work!

Thanks Pete.  Very kind of you.

Best wishes,

Terry

Excellent work! These old kits definitely still have life in them for those willing to build them - Airfix did a brilliant job with the molding overall. I can also relate to your experience with the transfers - the ones for my oil tankers also worked despite their age!

My turn to apologise for my tardy reply Terry ………………………..sadly, I don't spend as much time on here as I used to in the "good old days" so can often miss posts.

Thanks for the info on the axle bearing drill - I may well order one next time someone I know is visiting UK.  Post Brexit, ordering stuff from Blighty to ship to France usually ends up being a very expensive operation.