mikemodeler

I think that we can achieve clarity about threads like this when we can admit that they are really just about the individual not getting exactly what they want. They see companies investing money (to remain profitable) in product that they are not interested in, and creating a scenario in their minds that if all these companies were to instead invest in all new tooling for subjects that they want, the hobby would be better. Very true statement there. I think this is where the 3D community can/will fill a void. I have 3 different IH pickups, a Travelall and 2 Scouts that the plastic kit manufacturers will likely never tool up because of the (perceived) limited appeal and tooling costs involved. But I have spent over $500 for those 6 kits from 3D printers to get something I want.

For all the complaining that us modelers here in the United States seem to do, we have it pretty good with the current state of the hobby. Lot's of aftermarket companies providing us with stuff we could only have dreamed of 20 years ago, favorable exchange rates allow us to buy foreign kits rather cheaply and while not always what we want, there have been some new tooled kits and reworks of old kits to keep us in good supply. Don't like the reissues? Don't buy them. But remember sometimes those disliked reissues generate cash flow that allows the kit companies to spend on new kit development. I took advantage of a Black Friday sale to buy 5 kits that I already have because A) It helps the small business I bought from. B,) It helped the model kit companies. C) I like the subjects and will build them. Only one was a new release/kit as the others are reissues but if combined those sales spark more new kits or reissues then mission accomplished.

Given that the Stranger Things Blazer is starting to show up at Hobby Lobby, you can buy one eventually at 40% off, which works out to about $27. There are several 3D people printing the GMC grilles so if you want one bad enough, there's your option. From what I can tell the wheels are fairly close to what the optional white 8 spoke wheels were in the day. Of course there are options out there if you want something different. I intended to build either a Blazer or Jimmy with a lift and some aftermarket tires, likely with one of the 3D grilles I bought to depict a 90/91 model year.

Awesome build Tom, you nailed it! We had a 69 Winnebago Indian 24 foot motorhome. Spent many a day camping in it as my dad didn't like flying. We were the only family in our neighborhood to have a camper and of course all my friends wanted to go camping with me and my family. That brings back lots of memories.

This is going to be a good one to watch, always enjoy your craftsmanship!

As these are Wal Mart exclusives, little to no chance of the online sellers having them. From what I understand, they are not available for order to the regular hobby distributors. Your best bet is to find them at Wal Mart, have a buddy find one for you or wait for someone to put the decals up for trade.

The El Jefe is the Captain Hook with a different bed as near as I can tell. It will be nice to have the Mojave Mule, built that one as a teenager, would like to build it again.

Which 69 Camaro kit? There is the Monogram kit (currently at Ollie's) the MPC kit and the Revell kit. Harts Parts Resin a couple of 67 & 68 flat hoods that would fit with a little bit of work.

Can anyone rationally explain the opposite view? The short answer is that engineers are constantly changing proven designs either due to regulations or trying to justify their existence. You must learn to remove logic when trying to figure out what the motives are as for most of the time, it isn't necessary.

I have worked around automobiles and the automotive industry for 45 years (am I that old????) and the aftermarket industry has been fighting for years to have access to OE data- parts, diagnostic, schematics- to keep vehicle ownership somewhat affordable. The costs for a repair shop to have the current diagnostic equipment continues to rise every year as the complexity of the vehicles increases and more tools are needed. Add in the other costs of running a business and it's easy to see why many of the small, independent shops are disappearing or scaling back on what vehicles they will and won't work on. While some trades are still using tools and methods that previous generations used, automobile repair techs have had to continually update their equipment and training to be able to ply their trade and that has lead to higher repair costs, whether you go to the dealer or an independent repair shop.

Let's not forget that many of the newer vehicles have features and systems dictated by the government, leading to more complicated diagnostic repairs and costly parts. Ask yourself when was the last time a government mandate resulted in lower costs or less complications of your life?

Kit pricing was always a problem for me. I don't mind paying a buck or two more if the service is good but they tended to be a bit more higher with average service. Living in the South I have three online sellers within 200 miles that tend to be very price competitive and offer service that I consider to be excellent. The owners stated their desire to retire and I can understand that sentiment as I am getting closer to that point in my life as well. I am sure managing the vast offering they have with as many vendors both domestically and internationally is quite challenging given the current situation on tariffs and shipping costs. They have served us well and hope they get to enjoy many years of retirement. For the remaining model shops and online retailers, this represents a loss of a wholesaler that they may have used to source products from. Let's hope that this isn't the start of others looking to do the same. In this hobby, we know many people are aging and that applies to both the sellers and consumers so my hope is that we can continue to enjoy it for many years.

Helps get rid of the weird sunroof/visor set up. I have the previous version of this wrecker with a damaged cab, got a Deserter cab that will happily donate to the cause. Cool build and story Chuck, as always!

I was at the ACME show this weekend and these were selling like hot cakes. I might be persuaded to purchase one based on the box art alone, will have to see what else is coming out. I think Moebius has a hit on their hands with these new releases.

I will be there, always a great time seeing and making friends. Lot's of great plastic to buy and the models are incredible.