1/12 Trumpeter Ford GT40 replacement decals..?

[512BB]

Originally Posted by MerlinPro

This is so true. Trump has $200 aircraft and ships which far surpass this effort. P-47's with complete supercharger and radial detail, Tomcats with every conceivable ordinance, radar and complete engines-almost all of which get closed unless you build a cut-away. And many others for the military modelers.

I was particularly sad because the 427 Sideoiler engine is so poor. I'm fortunate to have one and reference for me is very easy. Even though it's buried in the car I added better details and finishes.

I also have the Exoto 1/10 model of chassis 1015 (car #1, 2nd place LeMans ) This is a superb model and yes, the larger scale helps-but there are very few, very minor carps with this. I just don't want to try a disassembly to improve it because of it's value. But it looks fantastic to all but the most experienced GT-40 lovers.

Would like to see other builds and finished models. Bob-any interest?? Melchiori's build was a rush-job which cut many corners.

I am a little lucky for such 1/32 Tomcats only sell around $100 in my place, but still I know they have marked it much higher than they should be! Even though they are bargain comparing the price they sell in the western world, it is hard for us to accommodate those giants!

[Eric Cole]

Originally Posted by ZoomZoomMX-5

Nope; I don't build 1/12 scale (I was offered the review kit and passed), and the people I know who do are still figuring this beast out. If anyone I know who can do a great job with it and actually build it, it would likely be Eric Cole aka Mach I 2003. My personal passion is for the Gulf-livery LeMans winning car from '68 & '69. If the kit were that (and not nearly as compromised), I might consider it.

I should have the Tamiya Aston Martin DBS and McLaren Mercedes SLR 722 review kits on my bench early next week

Review kits have to be built OOB, so not much room for doing much with that kit other than showing it built as-is. I continue to be completely perplexed as to what Trumpeter is really trying to accomplish with model cars. They still seem to have little clue how to hit any sort of "sweet spot" whatsoever.

Ah yes, the 1/12th scale GT40 kit that sits in the corner of my room just waiting on me to start... someday. Actually, I really do want to build this thing but I want to do it right, within reason. Meaning, some modification to the kit without all out scratch building everything. Talk of the KA Detail set reminds me that I need to order/pay for mine.

[MerlinPro]

Originally Posted by mach1_2003

. Actually, I really do want to build this thing but I want to do it right, within reason. Meaning, some modification to the kit without all out scratch building everything. Talk of the KA Detail set reminds me that I need to order/pay for mine.

That's where I am with mine-"within reason" because there are still many un-fixable structures and sequences-unless you go totally scratch for most of the structure. The panels, shapes and contours are very well done and the parts fit is largely very good.

I have not had a "hands-on" look at the KA parts but I passed on it because what they created is largely cosmetic from what I saw on StradaSport's site. You will likely want to scratch your own coilovers, trailing arms, anti-roll bars and links, control arms, cockpit plumbing, ignition and brake lines and calipers. These parts are exposed and are worth the effort but it's my impression that KA did not address them. Tin panels and foiled parts are easy and do not add to the cost burden like KA's parts would. And the big thing is the tires-no KA parts for that. I spent a lot of time on a small belt sander giving them a softer shoulder and near slick tread area-well worn race tires. The letters should be more tan than bright white (I have these same Blue Streak rain tires 1:1) and removing the carrier film was tedious but worth it. The blue sidewall streak is done most easily with a toothpick and X-4 blue thinned with iso. Then a mist of gray/black/brown gets them and the wheels brake-dusted.

Please correct any errors I've made about the KA parts. My build is progressing satisfactorily and I'm just trying to stay within the limitations of my reference photos and the kits basic shortcomings.

Would love to see this one done by some of you prolific and talented modelers.