kensar

The kit left out a number of rear wing support tubes. I also added an air jack air line and an air line hookup to raise the car. Wheels in progress. Will add valve stems later. Still lots of handling to be done with the wheels and I don't want to damage any work I've already done. I've started studying the body details and now working on them. Thanks for looking in on this project.

I apparently missed this build. Excellent result, Pierre, and a nice addition to your collection. I read somewhere that getting a license to model Jim Hall's cars is very reasonably priced, but Mr. Hall insists that the models be very accurate.

Super looking details, Pierre. I like the insulating mats.

I appreciate the info on the other salt flat cars and the fact that you have researched these subjects, Pierre. Thanks. I'm sure this will be a very unique model when you are done, knowing the extent to which you detail your models. Looking forward to more updates!

Excellent work all around, Chris.

Well, you know your way around the machine tools!

Normally, I don't think the 'salt flat rules' would allow one to keep the potentially flammable interior panels in place. It doesn't cost money to rip them out. But since you are keeping them, here's a thought: 1) Paint a flat finish on them if you don't have one already. 2) Use dry pastel chalk in dark gray or brown to give a dirty look in spots, maybe a lighter application all over. Apply with a dry sponge and rub it in. The flat finish will grab onto the chalk powder. You may want to experiment on other parts first (goes without saying). 3) Maybe explore ways to simulate tears or cuts in the vinyl. Cover sections like the top edge of the door, top of the dash, or arm rest with foil, then cut into it and peel back the edges slightly. Then repaint - the interior of the panel would probably be a dirty white color. You may have other ideas about what to use in place of the foil (a thin masking tape or adhesive backed vinyl, maybe). Get creative. Would work on the seat, too. These are just a few first thoughts. Try something new you haven't done before.

Looks great! You'll have to weather up the interior panels to match the condition of the chassis and body.

Okay, I believe the engine compartment is done now. This car sure has a lot going on back here. The rear wing mount is next.

"Oh... on a side note, anybody want to do a few laps strapped in the "comfy" mandatory second seat? Ouch!" And no safety belts either! A couple more progress shots. 3D printed blow off valve actuator vs. the kit part. Getting the right side finished. The hole in the heat shielding is for a duct from the body into the turbo inlet area. More details to do!

I made the shocks myself. I plan to make a few more small parts on the lathe for this project.

I'm glad to see you finally shoved this one across the finish line. I know there were frustrating times and difficult times, but the whole experience makes every model you build afterward easier, mentally and physically. As was mentioned before, you definitely qualify to be a scratchbuilder (that means we all have higher expectations now 😁). This one has a very good level of detail and the end product looks very sharp. I'm looking forward to seeing what's next!

It's good to push your modeling boundaries! You're checking all the boxes so far! I especially like the rust paint job on the body.

NIce work. I've always believed masking is an art in itself.

Thanks Mike and Mark. I just returned from a two week out of town trip. I'm now posting where things are with this project. I'm also working on 3D printing new turbo blow off valve actuating mechanisms, since these are very visually prominent (also working on designing the next 3D project). Here is the air box, not yet completed and just placed into position. I managed to find some 'Mercedes Benz' decals similar to what the actual car had. I've added most of the interior details now. I've lost a bit of momentum on this since starting my next 3D print design, but things will continue to get done. Thanks to all that have commented and looked in on this.

A short update. I've been working on the very tedious engine compartment details using wires and small tubing. This vehicle has a lot going on back here.

Hope your clearcoating works well. Are you having the extremely low humidity weather there?

Super looking model, Pierre. Excellent paint job!

If they are closing all the stores, why are they filing chapter 11 instead of chapter 13?

Nice details!

Kind of a pedestrian looking car, but the Carrera Panamericana touch will dress it up. 👍

I decided to remake the rear shock absorbers a little more accurate according to my reference pics.

Thanks for commenting Atin and Steve. I just wish the rivet tool rivets were more realistic. It was made for a smaller scale than 1/24.

I have the interior done but all the components will be installed later when more of the engine is done. Mockup: There are a couple more details to be added - in good time.

Thanks for the kind comments, gents.