MINI BIG RIGS
Finally, a complete model replica of our subject matter – Ken Kirk’s Pilkington Automotive Glass Mercedes-Benz, circa 1992.
By Carl Kirkbeck
MAIDEN VOYAGE We have made it to the end of our Ken Kirk/Pilkington Automotive Glass Mercedes-Benz build. With just paint and a few finishing touches to add to the trailer, we can load up, tarp up and hit the road.
F
ollowing our scratchbuilding efforts on the flat deck last month, the trailer is ready for paint and final assembly. Let’s start with the main trailer chassis assembly. The first step is to paint the largest area first – the underside, including chassis, suspension and axle sets. Completely mask off the top side of the deck, the headache rack and the coaming rails. Doing this will make life a lot easier when painting the top side, as you will retain the fresh, clean,
white plastic surfaces and not have to paint over any overspray. Following the balance of step 2 in the instructions, we now assemble the wheel sets. The first part of this process is to detail-paint the inner hubs and outer rims, matching the black and white combination on the tractor unit. Allow the paint to dry completely, and then fit the tyres. Remember to run the tyre tread over coarse sandpaper for a scuffed finish that replicates the natural wear and tear of
the tread surface. setting it in place. So, a Once the underside is dry, steady hand and easy-doesremove the masking tape it is the way forward here. I from the top side and begin suggest only fitting the wheels assembly. The likes of our to one side at a time, allowing scratch-built underbelly tool them to dry thoroughly before locker can be fitted now, flipping over and fitting out then move on to fitting the the opposite side. This will wheels as per the instruction also help ensure you do not sheet. The one critical piece glue the wheels in place. of advice here is to be very Finally, apply the detail careful with applying the paint to the likes of the glue to the ends of the axles. headache rack, coaming rails Using too much glue runs and taillights. Modern acrylic the risk of it making its way hobby paints are much more 1/50 KW Drake 2x8 & 5x8forgiving, Low Loaderand you can add a in between theC509 axle&and “Centurion” at $649.50 Special Combo Deal! the wheel and permanently drop or two of clean water to
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