1972 Hurst Olds - FINISHED!

[dencon]

Outstanding model building. This looks fantastic. You should get paid for this by Revel. I can say that this post just sold a couple of these kits , right here in Phoenix.

Matt

[Len Carsner]

When does/did this kit hit store shelves? It's news to me...

If everything goes as expected we should see them on the shelves before the end of the month.

Just in time for the New Year.

Thanks for your interest.

[Eric Stone]

Outstanding model building. This looks fantastic. You should get paid for this by Revel. I can say that this post just sold a couple of these kits , right here in Phoenix.

Matt

Plus at least one here... I'll keep my eyes out for em in a month or so.

Thanks for posting this well written and well photographed detailed build thread.

[SteveG]

That looks great !!! ..... I can't wait to get one. Since this kit is a 2n1 are you guys going to show us a second build like you did with the Black Widow kit?

-Steve

[Railfreak78]

Fantastic! Makes me want to pull out an old hard top thats in my junk yard. Great work!

[tuffone20]

I'm loving and hating this build at the same time!!!! I'm loving it because it's an awesome looking kit and reminds me of the '71 Olds Conv. I had back in the early '80's and that's the same reason I'm hating it because it reminds of the car I SOLD!!!!!!!!! I had a '71 hard top as well and for the longest time I kept trying to get this guy to sell me his '71 wagon!!

Anyways great job on the front end it looks just right.

[Eshaver]

I only wish Revell would do a 69 Delta 88, a real car I might add ................. Ed Shaver

[Len Carsner]

Since this kit is a 2n1 are you guys going to show us a second build like you did with the Black Widow kit?

-Steve

Well, if picture is worth a thousand words......

Len C.

[Luc Janssens]

Len & Bill,

When done, you should propose to Revell to post this online build on their website, so that model builders everywhere can benefit from it.

I dunno if your build was done step by step as per the provided instruction sheet, cuz that would be even better to not confuse the novice builder.

As you said a picture says more then a thousand words......

Keep up the great work you both!

Best regards

Luc

Ps. if click on my name on the other board you post, you can read, that the aforementioned suggestion is not really new

[W-Machine]

I can't wait to get my hands on this kit (I want at least 5 of them). I've already sawn the roof off of a '70 Monte Carlo, and gathered up nearly everything else needed to convert one into a '71 Cutlass Supreme (my first car). This kit build/review has revealed quite a lot of information about what to expect, and as a rabid Oldsmophile, I can say without reservation that this is the best scale Olds EVER!

[Len Carsner]

Len & Bill,

When done, you should propose to Revell to post this online build on their website, so that model builders everywhere can benefit from it.

I dunno if your build was done step by step as per the provided instruction sheet, cuz that would be even better to not confuse the novice builder.

As you said a picture says more then a thousand words......

Keep up the great work you both!

Best regards

Luc

Ps. if click on my name on the other board you post, you can read, that the aforementioned suggestion is not really new

Bill and I have talked about that very subject on a number of occasions. I've been saving these posts as PDF files thinking someone might be interested in having them as a visual in-depth set of building instructions. Someday maybe we'll work something out with MCM, Revell, or our own website to make them available as downloads.

Thanks for the kind words and compliments.

Len C.

[Len Carsner]

I can't wait to get my hands on this kit (I want at least 5 of them). I've already sawn the roof off of a '70 Monte Carlo, and gathered up nearly everything else needed to convert one into a '71 Cutlass Supreme (my first car). This kit build/review has revealed quite a lot of information about what to expect, and as a rabid Oldsmophile, I can say without reservation that this is the best scale Olds EVER!

According the email I received from Revell on Wednesday the kits are at the distributors and should start showing up in the stores next week.

Just in time for Christmas!

Len C.

[James Flowers]

Well, the next update took a little longer than we expected but sometimes real life takes precedent. In any event here's our next update on the 72 H/O Cutlass. Today we'll cover painting, and detailing the interior.

Let's begin:

Carefully trim out each decal piece in preparation for application to the center console, dashboard and interior door panels. Small sewing scissors, shown here are best for such intricate jobs. For best results, water with a touch of dish detergent, decal setting solutions and the proper hand tools are recommended.

Dashboard and steering wheel details on the Revell Hurst Olds Cutlass are a combination of hand-painting and kit decal application. Here the instrument cluster (three individual gauge faces, switch gear and wood trim are taken straight from the kit decal sheet. The remainder was highlighted with Testors Silver paint and a 3-0 brush.

The Olds Cutlass interior fits together like a well-engineered puzzle. The platform-style just begs for special attention to surface details that are plentiful in this Olds Cutlass interior.

Here the initial test fitting of interior parts is being accomplished as the pieces can be temporarily held in place with masking tape.

The detailed right-side interior door panel can be clearly seen from this angle. Fit and clearance issues are nonexistent…so far. Note the center console that is unique to the automatic transmission version of this new Revell kit.

Here the completed 72 Cutlass interior is well engineered allowing for intricate detailing while fitting together flawlessly. This interior is a great platform for further detailing.

During the disassembly of the interior parts in preparation for gluing everything into place, it was decided to use narrow strips of BareMetal Chrome foil to brighten up the lower door panel details.

The next installment is ready and will be posted on Monday. See you then.

Bill and Len

You guys are doing a great job on this build. I have question is there supposed to be seam in the middle of the headrest on the seats? The pictures show one. Just looks out of place to me.

[Len Carsner]

Time for another update.

Well, the kits are in the shops and some people already have them in hand so it's high time Bill and I wrap this project up. I'm posting the finale of the buildup tonight and tomorrow will be our final thoughts and beauty shots (of the cars, not us!)

Let's begin:

Never start a decaling job without all the right tools etc. Tap water (with a drop or two of dish detergent), Setting solutions, non-oil facial tissue, tweezers, small sewing scissors, tooth pick, cotton swab and clean paint brushes are essential to getting good results. I like to use two different brushes (in this case different sizes) when using decal solutions. That way you can quickly tell which one you're used with which solution.

If you want the appearance of a license plate frame, apply the license plate water-slide decal of your choice (the kit has four plate options) to the kit front and rear part No. 107 as shown here.

Another option for applying license plates to your 72 Hurst Olds convertible is to carefully trim the license plates of your choice from the kit decal sheet. The apply a few dabs of Testors Clear Parts Cement and attach the front and rear plates in position as shown here.

Once a small amount of The Detailer Black liquid wash was applied where the rims attach to each spyder, carefully apply Testors Gold enamel with a 3-0 brush as shown here. The kit decal sheet also features four decals to denote the center cap logos.

Once the separate windshield frame was carefully removed from the parts tree, the clear windshield was trial fit in place. Make sure the recessed engraving on both parts matches up squarely and temporarily tape the delicate clear part in place. Upon close inspection, when you're satisfied with the alignment and fit, apply a bead of Testors Clear Parts Cement around the seam between the two parts as shown here. Once the white glue has thoroughly dried, the sunvisors/rearview mirror bracket can be glued into place, the protruding bracket (shown here) attaches to a recessed slot in the center top of the windshield frame (under the tape strip).

[Len Carsner]

Time for another update.

Well, the kits are in the shops and some people already have them in hand so it's high time Bill and I wrap this project up. I'm posting the finale of the buildup tonight and tomorrow will be our final thoughts and beauty shots (of the cars, not us!)

Let's begin:

Never start a decaling job without all the right tools etc. Tap water (with a drop or two of dish detergent), Setting solutions, non-oil facial tissue, tweezers, small sewing scissors, tooth pick, cotton swab and clean paint brushes are essential to getting good results. I like to use two different brushes (in this case different sizes) when using decal solutions. That way you can quickly tell which one you're used with which solution.

If you want the appearance of a license plate frame, apply the license plate water-slide decal of your choice (the kit has four plate options) to the kit front and rear part No. 107 as shown here.

Another option for applying license plates to your 72 Hurst Olds convertible is to carefully trim the license plates of your choice from the kit decal sheet. The apply a few dabs of Testors Clear Parts Cement and attach the front and rear plates in position as shown here.

Once a small amount of The Detailer Black liquid wash was applied where the rims attach to each spyder, carefully apply Testors Gold enamel with a 3-0 brush as shown here. The kit decal sheet also features four decals to denote the center cap logos.

Once the separate windshield frame was carefully removed from the parts tree, the clear windshield was trial fit in place. Make sure the recessed engraving on both parts matches up squarely and temporarily tape the delicate clear part in place. Upon close inspection, when you're satisfied with the alignment and fit, apply a bead of Testors Clear Parts Cement around the seam between the two parts as shown here. Once the white glue has thoroughly dried, the sunvisors/rearview mirror bracket can be glued into place, the protruding bracket (shown here) attaches to a recessed slot in the center top of the windshield frame (under the tape strip).

So far Bill has had all of the fun, now it's my turn:

Let's talk about options. Shown here are some of the optional parts included in the kit. Wed have the W30 rear spoiler, a console for the automatic transmision (the kit includes both transmissions and the appropriate consoles), a dual-snorkle air cleaner, the standard stamped steel differential cover (along with the W27 aluminum cover), and the 1970 only W27 differential housing with the aluminum center section. Not shown are the outside temperature indicator which mounts on the left hand door, the second transmission, and the afore mentioned decals for the license plates. With all of these spare parts included it's easy to assume there will be other versions of the kit somewhere down the road.

I wanted a bold color for my car so I chose Inferno Orange Metallic, the same color used on late model GM cars and trucks. After priming I applied three coats of color, wet sanded it after a few days drying time, then three coats of Testors Wet Look Clear which was given the once over with the polishing cloths and then cleaned up before the next step.

The bright Bare Metal Foil really pops against the orange paint.

I was somewhat concerned that the decals might be a little thin and let the color bleed through but that wasn't the case. The long side decals took a little work to get them properly aligned and spaced properly around the wheel openings but I'm pleased with the result.

continued in the next post.....

[Len Carsner]

This shot shows the decals and 442 emblem in place. Why no engraved emblems? Makes it easier to release alternate versions in the future.

The multi-piece engine assembly looks very good and has only two parts that are plated (the fuel pump and carb).

One issue I did have was that the engine and transmission did not fit flat together, requiring a little finesse with a flat file to get them to mate properly. Minor issue at best but one to make note of.

The chassis is made up of multiple parts that need little attention to make then stand out The transmission crossmember is a seperate piece and can be located in two different locations to accommodate the longer automatic or shorter manual transmissions.

This closeup shows the rear suspension and the W27 axle cover in place.

Here we see the engine in place awaiting the firewall, radiator support, and air conditioning lines:

and here we see them installed along with the interior.

I chose a white interior to compliment the stripes. I was really trying to avoid looking too much llike the box art car but a white interior just seems right with this body color and stripe combination.

It sure looks good sitting an all four wheels, come back tomorrow when we'll wrap this project up and give you our unbiased opinions.

Thanks for your comments and for looking,

Bill Coulter and Len Carsner

Edited December 23, 2009 by Len Carsner

[Chris guthro]

By far my favorite Build Ive seen on here! I love these oldsmobiles. Do you recomend getting this kit?

[Merkur XR4Ti]

Awesome. Just awesome.

I have some 1970 Cutlass/442 parts at home already, so the inclusion of the W27 diff cover may well mean I can build a 1970 442 right out of the kit with just a few parts changes. I cannot wait and already have Agean Aqua paint ready to go.

[Len Carsner]

The end has come, and just in time for the holidays! Check out the shots of our completed Oldsmobiles and read our final thoughts at the end.

From any angle this new Revell 1972 Hurst Oldsmobile convertible is a looker, matching up very nicely with all of the references we’ve had access to. This is a well-engineered 1/25th scale kit and the compound curves and proportions give it a definite appearance of realism.

This rear view again emphasizes the attention to detail and how well thought out this new Revell kit is. The fit and finish of individual parts and the interior to body, the unique separate windshield frame and the final assembly were near flawless.

When it’s all said and done a good model can become a great model with that extra little bit of attention to final detail. I like to let a finished model sit for a short while until I can come back to it with a fresh perspective. That’s when those little things like a body color touch-up here and there will make it a great model. Use the same approach for other colors on this model like flat black and gold and carefully apply them with a small diameter brush where needed as shown here.

Much like their 69 Nova and recent 57 Chevy 150 Utility Sedan/Black Widow kits, Revell has rung the bell once again. The new Revell 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass kit offers us two slightly different version to wet our building appetites. Len's 442 convertible on the left makes a great stable mate for Bill's Cutlass Supreme-based Hurst Olds topless version on the right.

Coming or going, hoods up or down, these two versions of the new Revell 1972 Oldsmobile 442/Hurst convertibles are a welcome and long-overdue addition to their product line. This is a well-thought out kit, with abundant details and body, chassis and driveline parts just begging for a multitude of additional detailing. The tires remain about the only sore spot we found in building these two beauties. The kit tires appear to be a tad small in diameter and the lack of sidewall surface graphics doesn't help. After-market tire lettering or substituting a slightly larger diameter tires from another source (especially something with some sidewall detail) will only improve the overall appearance of this fine kit.

Anybody who's owned a convertible knows this is the only way to fly...top down! There's been some fuss about no up-top in the new Revell 1972 Olds 442/Hurst convertible kit. It's not something we found to be a distraction or detrimental to this kit kit that has so many things going for it. Patience grasshopper, and that's our final word on that subject.

Final Thoughts:

It's obvious this is a brand-new tool. Very crisply molded parts and pieces. The fit and finish to the raw parts is impressive.

The choice of a 442 and a Hurst Olds convertible are good choices. Though many builders will put their own personal spin to this kit, these two choices are a good place to start.

I really like the unique convertible windshield frame treatment. The historic problem with convertible kits in the past, especially since the windshield frames have always been molded as part of the body shell, they bend, they break, they fracture! Fixing the broken or bent parts has always been a chore. With the new Revell approach the old situation is no more!

With in the two versions there's a nice selection of optional parts like two transmissions, two consoles and two rear axles.

The potential for spin-off from this initial tooling is staggering when you begin counting up the variations.

A second choice of wheels might have been nice but I feel sure that's coming in some other version.

An up top would have been nice but I own a convertible and convertibles are meant to have the top down. You only have the top up on a convertible when it rains or you've put it away for the winter. Otherwise, the top is down. Again, I feel sure that some future variant will have an up top.

Tires. Since every Tom, Dick and Harry in the 1/1 tire business wants their collective palms greased, we the model building public suffer because Revell refuses to pay the licensing fees. I find no fault with Revell but despise the greedy tire companies who apparently can't make a living from selling regular tires. I guess there plan is to become profitable on the backs of modelers. A larger diameter tire even generic would give the finished model that beefy look synonymous with American muscle cars. There should be a steady demand for after-market tire markings if they can pull it off with out being hounded by the licensing police.

The level of detail of this new Olds kit is very good. It continues to amaze me what we get in a model kit box these days. Overall, a very pleasing building experience and a very attractive finished model.

So another project comes to an end. We would like to thank everyone at Revell for their help in presenting this project to the public. We'd also like to thank the owners/moderators of the forums we've been posting on these past few weeks. Most of all we'd like to thank the modeling community: those of you that read, looked watched, commented upon, or questioned what Bill and I have been doing. All of your comments have been noted, and Revell as well as Bill and I take them seriously. Your comments help Revell to bring better products to market, and they help Bill and I to better report the information you want and need when considering whether to spend your hard earned money.

Again, thanks to all for your comments and encouragement. While this project has come to an end, I'm fairly certain we'll be back soon with another sneak-peek buildup.

Merry Christmas to everyone! Have a safe and joyous holiday season!

Bill Coulter and Len Carsner

[Guest Mustang3.8]

Great job, guys. When are they gonna be available? I want one. I plan to build mine as a hardtop.

[Casey]

Take a bow, guys, you've done some very nice work.

This is exactly the type of kit I've come to expect from Revell and don't mind paying $20 for, either. I can't wait for the '70 442 and Rallye 350 versions to come out in a few years!

[jeffs396]

Very nice writeup guys! Can't wait to get a few!

[Len Carsner]

Great job, guys. When are they gonna be available? I want one. I plan to build mine as a hardtop.

They started showing up in some shops this past weekend.

[Guest Mustang3.8]

They started showing up in some shops this past weekend.

I know, but no online places have them, yet.

[charlie8575]

I'm getting one come tax refund. Wow! I love 1968-72 Cutlasses, and I can't wait for this one to be on my shelf...I'm considering swapping out some of the 442 parts and making it standard Supreme, but I'll see when I get one.

Charlie Larkin