Big John

This was to be a curbside model so I didn't go into all the internal structures and running gear but gave a reasonable space for transfer cases etc. The next step was to break out the renshape and paste the paper patterns on for rough cutting and preliminary sanding. Here are some shots of the rough shaped parts using coat hanger wire for connecting pins.

I am fortunate to have the special set of skills to bring to this project. Some automotive knowledge, AutoCAD drafting , and Photoshop. Using section views of the type 57 engine and it to a section drawing of the Royale bore and stroke of 4.94 x 5.125 in. I could do a rough engine layout and I basing the wheel size on the Royale tire size (6.75 x 35) and later found that they matched the tires on the Golden Arrow model from 'Profile 24' so I had some proven tires. I could now begin building the body loosely based on the Autrail and type 31 Tank both of which set speed records. To keep the profile low I went with the driver sitting low and in front of the business end of the car. I went about designing the CAD drawings in full size which I could scale down and print out plan views and elevations. I was also fortunate to have a large format printer to plot out full 1/24 scale plans. These I laid out with extra parts to use in the model parts layout.

Howdy, This is the lowdown on my 'What If' Bugatti LSR car. One day I was searching for a model of the Jean Bugatti conceived Land speed record car. Found a couple of sketches and a couple of models of his concept. His original concept had three typ.57 engines with the drive behind and a rather fat aerodynamic body. I wanted to add a Bugatti to my 1/24th collection of LSR cars but wasn't sold on Jean's design so... What if I could work with him on developing a unique and successful car? What would I bring to the table design wise? I wanted to use the big Autorail / Royale engines modified to a twin cams and supercharged configuration. I first toyed with the front engine concept. but wasn't convinced with having the driver sticking up into the air stream. so I decided to put the driver up front and streamlining the body.

Thanks for the info Pete. The thing with the Spirit of America shell logo on the 1:1 car is that it appears to be rendered as a 3d image. below photo. The graphic images I was able to find were all much more stylized versions. The only way I could get the correct look was to use a photo of a 3D sign and clean it up in photoshop and add the vector text layer. the above image is a bit misleading because it is a jpg at 4"x4 x 200 dpi. I always set up my print files at a minimum of 600 dpi so I don't think the resolution would be a problem. I may go back and take out the drop shadow per your suggestion, thanks. Thanks again for the valuable info.

This is in particular is the decal I would like printed, the word Shell is a vector on a separate layer from the image. the image would be a rasterized profiled layer. this is for a restoration of an old We Mac Spirit of America. This is a pretty specific image I haven't found another like on the web.

Hi Guys, You may have already answered this but... What if I want to have a color blend or gradation printed, or photo of a calendar girl for the garage wall. I have illustrator and can place the image in with my other vector color blocks, will it work if I rasterize the image and save as an illustrator file or eps? I am also looking for a source for waterslide decals. One source I found won't print an image if it is a sponsor that I don't have permission from the corporate or rights holder, which I haven't been able to obtain let alone get a reply from. Thanks for the great info!

You might check with J. Horst at bugattipage.com, or the Bugatti Trust who have a vast archive. Back to you Bugatti fan?

Unfortunately I've seen nothing for the type 13 Brescia engine or otherwise. Many years ago there was a company "Auto Replicas" of england that offered a diecast kit for the typ. 13 in 1/24 and 1/43 scale. Occasionally you can find the 1/43 scale on thebay, the 1/24 is another of those phantom kits.

I would vote for the Turbo chager, Much easier to make out of scrap sprue and a little heat. Which reminds me of another long dead project,,, my MPC Dodge cab over with turbo Hemi.

Beautiful motor work Mike! and thanks for the wip on lacing the wheels they came out sweet! Wire wheels are always a make or break issue with kit models.

That looks like the stuff I have, Thanks for the lead and reference # ...1930

Or that Royale!

I would expect that there are different densities but don't know which I have, someone else bought it for the company. It is fairly hard but you can only just dent it with your fingernail. Usually foam and such are rated by pound per Cu.Ft.

I remember those old engine stands from the old AMT models. So, would the old Parts Pack engines qualify as model 'Crate' engines> Of course my Fave was the Allison aircraft V12. and I remember Revel having an interesting Turbine engine once upon a time back in the 60s. I bet landman has one!

You have been keeping busy!

Stunning work as usual Mike, The oil pumps are a work of art in them selves and your attention to the details even down to the raised lettering is very impressive. Can't wait for more.

Eureka I found it! Your engine stream. How do you tell the difference between the 283 327 350 an400 Chevys? I know, measure the bore? Wonderful engine selection, and a joy to see. Where is the Allison? Thanks, John

Love the bare block on the left! Very cool detail.

They tend to do that!

I was waiting for the Cadillac V16

Thanks Mike. They do have one for 1/8" but seeing what you have has the old brain storm rumbling. It shouldn't be too hard to turn up some spindles and make one in various sizes. Look forward to seeing the old slingshot progress.

But of course you did! Sweet!

Ditto... That's one slick bit of kit!

Thanks for the tips Mike, Annealing definitely helps the workability or the metal. I was more interested in how to bend the round tube. I've not been satisfied with using the spring sleeve bending tools and not sure if anyone makes a mandrel bender for tubing 3/16 on down. Thanks again for you info.

Perhaps powered by a GMC V12?