2009 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

[Nitromethane]

This is a modified 1:18 scale Maisto 2009 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon that was "saved" from a local thrift shop.  It was in dire need of a front wheel and tire.  In addition, it was missing the rear bench seat, the whole top and back side coverings, both side mirrors, and one hood latch. I had no appropriate wheel and tire to fit it, so the only alternative was to use the spare mounted on the rear tailgate.  The wheel's configuration was such that with a spare knuckle (without a bearing) from my parts bin, a little drilling would allow the wheel to rotate and be properly aligned too. Another big problem was the steering linkage connectors had broken off at the knuckles, so one had to be superglued repeatedly to finally adhere correctly.  Then the final hurdle was to repair a broken stub that the knuckles swivel on. Superglue eventually corrected this only after the factory springs for the active suspension were scrapped, and one spring was cut in half so each side received just a half spring.  This relieved much tension and allowed the glue to hold. So all wheels now turn freely and the steering system works nicely.

The holes where the back bench seat was mounted were unsightly, so this entire back area was covered in adhesive-backed aluminum.  The side rails are from plastic sprue, and a hood latch formed from a small Q-tip stick and straight pin. I don't know how "authentic" my Jeep would be in real life, but I imagine it to be a sort of all-weather, general utility 4X4 work "truck" with side racks for tie-downs and no spare. LOL  This was a fun challenge about a model that cost just a mere ninety-nine cents!

Thanks for looking...

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[randyc]

Nice save!