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1960 Chevy "Hard Luck" Impala


David G.

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I started this kit back in 2011. When I opened it I found that the roof had been squished and twisted to one side. So I began having problems, literally, right out of the box. As I recall, it took several days to correct. I used scalding water to soften the plastic "A" pillars just enough to allow them to be moved into the proper position and held there and quenched in cool water to fix them into position. This process had to be repeated probably a couple of dozen times to gradually coax the plastic into recalling its rightful place in the universe.

I had nothing but trouble with this kit from the day I started it. For those who don't know the whole history, here is a link to the build thread . With all the time and trouble I went through on this project, I made what I feel is a suitable vanity plate for the car.

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I know, it has no wipers. But it's an Arizona car and in Phoenix wipers are only needed about six days out of the year. Actually I lost them sometime during the past six or seven years and I don't have the patience to locate, paint and install another set.

 

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It's a shame that this is such a challenging kit as it really is a beautiful car.

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It's one of those designs that look like it's moving at 70 mph when it's sitting still.

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More evidence of the interior, chassis and body fit issues.

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I've always enjoyed working on the grittier details. Looks like I need to jiggle the rear wheel a little.

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At least it looks pretty good in the display case.

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As always, thanks for taking the time to look and please feel free to comment.

David G.

 

 

 

Edited by David G.
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My favorite year Chevy and in my color too !  With all of the issues you had you can be proud of the finished model , it looks fabulous ! 

They look like they're going 70 sitting still and I can tell you that they feel great when you hit about 90mph , they just kind of float down the highway . . . smooooth .:D

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You did a great job on this, looks great. I love the light weathering on the chassis.

I also am working on this kit, with a sordid history. My kit can from Goodwill for $6. Someone started it and used a half a tube of glue for the 5 or 6 parts they put together. Then lost 3 or 4 parts too.  I have replaced a few of the parts, but still need a few. I pull it out and work on it for a while, then get frustrated and shove it back in the box not to be seen for a month or so. Someday I will get it done and hope it looks as good as yours.

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