1965 Mercury Cyclone Hardtop- Pics added Jan 5

[Ron Hamilton]

Hi Ron, for interest sake what glue do you use when mocking the cars up like this?

When I do a mock up like this, I will use normal plastic cement or CA glue just on the major assemblies (engine, axles, partial suspension) that are to be the same color when painted. The interior sides are taped together. I do this to see how the kit goes together prior to paint, and final assembly. The body, glass, and bumpers are friction fit on the pins in the case of this kit. Once I am satisfied, I can easily disassemble the unglued parts, and prime and paint. I try to do something similar on everything I build.

[Ron Hamilton]

Very effective and subtle improvements, Ron. It's interesting to see where different builders have focused their attentions - I think that shows that this was a desired kit and that while not perfect, it's a good launching point for a variety of builds.

Absolutely.

Steve, I really appreciate your input on this build, as your information is making the project come out better.

[br67]

Thx Ron

 

[drodg]

On 1/29/2017 at 12:33 AM, Ron Hamilton said:

I did a little more work to my build to upgrade, and personalize the build.

I felt that the rear suspension was too high, so I fashioned a set of lowering blocks to get the back end down.

I think I got the stance pretty much correct for a factory stock '65 Comet.

Also, I recontoured the rear part of the roof and sail panels, rounding over the edge, and sharpening the sculpture on the sides of the top, and across the back of the roof above the rear window, and as well as cutting in the door opening line into the upper door.

I have not decided on whether or not I am going with a vinyl roof on my build, as I tend to like the car better with the slick roof, but these cars did look good with the vinyl top.

Working on the interior, I scribed the door opening lines in the side panels,

and deepened the soft stitching on the upper seat backs as well as adding a separation line between the seat back and the cushion.

I plan to use cloth seat belt material and photoetched buckles for the seat belts. Also, I may remove the window cranks, and make a more detailed set with better definition.

As far as the engine goes, I am going to dress it up like a 289/271 hi-po engine, by adding  an open element air cleaner from an AMT Mustang, and the chrome valve covers from the Mobieus 1972 Ford Pickup. They fit perfectly.

I plan to add one of Replicas and Miniatures Distributors, and Holley carburetor, since the detail is much better than the kit pieces, and I have them I also cut in the fender to cowl separation lines. I have a set of AMT exhaust manifolds, which are beefier than the Mobieus pieces, but I may not use them, as I do not want to get into any more fitment issues. I do not plan to do any engine plumbing and wiring, as I have a slew of projects to get to,

I have a couple of cans of paint that should work well on this build, even though I have not made the final decision on the color combination, but I have narrowed it down.

I appreciate the comments on this build, as well as I am looking at the work done by other builders of this kit to make my build more satisfying to me..

 

 

Ron I know this is an old post but I wanted to start working on my Cyclone and I have always thought the ride height is too high.  I know what you did to the front spindles but by chance do you have a pictures of the blocks that you used to lower the rear suspension?   Thanks and sorry for bringing up an old post.    

[Ron Hamilton]

On 12/27/2018 at 11:37 AM, drodg said:

Ron I know this is an old post but I wanted to start working on my Cyclone and I have always thought the ride height is too high.  I know what you did to the front spindles but by chance do you have a pictures of the blocks that you used to lower the rear suspension?   Thanks and sorry for bringing up an old post.    

I just cut the springs from the axle, and added about 1/8 or so plastic between the springs and axle until it was my desired height.

[Ron Hamilton]

This model is still waiting for paint and detailing. Its not forgotten.

[afx]

On 12/27/2018 at 11:37 AM, drodg said:

Ron I know this is an old post but I wanted to start working on my Cyclone and I have always thought the ride height is too high.  I know what you did to the front spindles but by chance do you have a pictures of the blocks that you used to lower the rear suspension?   Thanks and sorry for bringing up an old post.    

Install the spacer between the leaf spring and the rear axle, this lowers the rear stance of the car.

Edited December 28, 2018 by afx

[drodg]

Thanks guys!   I appreciate the input.   Have a good weekend.