I have started my 1/32 tam P-51d a few months ago and was almost “overwelmed” by the amount of work these “super models” take.
It is not a difficult kit to build, there is just so much of it and if feels like you are building for a week and nothing to show in terms of visual progress.
My way of dealing with these builds are to work for a few days or so then box it when I get tired of it and build something that is quick and easy just to get some “moejoe” back.
I was given a 1/24 Airfix Typhoon as a gift and this is a monster build! al most intimidating in the box…
I was wondering how you guys tackle these types of long term builds.
I have the Tamiya 1/32 f-16cj and look at all of the work as a chance to see what some of the inner works look like that alot of the 1/48 kits don’t have.It makes it a little more interesting.
I’m currently working on the Trumpeter Tigonderoga and have picked up several PE sets which is making my eyes cross to see the tiny pieces, besides trying to figure out how to properly bend them into shape. After a couple hours at the bench, I take a needed break…like 2 days or more. Love the added details of PE but it really slows me down.
I like to build just 1 model at a time and I don’t get in a hurry.
I am up against a wall now on my 1/48 TBF Avenger trying to figure out how to install a AM engine that doesn’t want to fit, but I keep it on the work bench and “in my face” as Modelcrazy has said . When I finally get that “ahhaa moment” I will get back to to it and finish it in due time.
I like to build a few models at a time. Ideally, when paint or glue is drying on one, I can be working on another. And it’s fun to have mulitple subjects on the bench at one time.
However, I don’t seem to lose my moejoe, because life always has it’s way of limiting my bench time. Granted there are times when a particular event during a build will deter me, but, that is why I have other builds to move to until I can work out those issues.
I really like to think of model building as a stress reliever, but, honestly, when I join a Group Build, I let the stress to finish get to me a little bit. Something I need to work on.
Most of the time it takes some major modifications to get am stuff to fit, even if advertised as “drop in” for the particular kit. Most of the time some heavy duty scraping and sanding will eventually make things fit.
Have you considered having the engine exposed with the cowl off? This way the resin detail will be visible. No sense closing up a well detailed engine.
I have built all 4 of Tamiya’s signature kits of 1:32 Planes. They are the F4U-Corsair, P-51 Mustang, Spitfire, and the Zero. The only 1:32 series I have yet to build is the new 1:32 Mosquito. Just as a note, I’ve built the Mustang and Corsair twice.
Now to answer your “High Intensity Build” question. Before I go on please note that each and every modeler will have their models built in a certain sequence or way. In my humble opinion, having to build one of the top 4 Tamiya kits, I have never stopped in the middle of my work. I just get way too excited to see the final product, hence my way of building consists of one kit at a time.
As for the Mosquito, Mrs. Toshi and I are also considering the Zukei Mura 1:32 Horten. I’ll wait and see how this turns out. Good luck on your build(s).
Yes I am planning to expose the engine by cutting the cowling etc. My problem with it is the engine mounts through a kit molded thin ring . I need to enlarge the inside mounting hole to accept the back of the engine wich in turn will make the mount way too fragile . I’m waiting for that ahhaa moment to figure this out.
I recently struggled with a bunch of resin updates made for the Revell He162 and none of it fit either. Took a lot to make things fit so I put it aside for a spell.
Hey, Jay Jay! Is it possible for you to scratch-build the needed ring mount? Maybe with some plastic rod that’s heated just enough to bend it into a circle…
You can also use solder wire which is very easy to bend and mold. It comes in different thicknesses at Home Depot or Radio Shack. I will be using it for the engine mount for a Bandai 1/24 George. Use Gorilla CA for attachment points.