Model specs database for kit bashing projects, is there anything out there?

[A modeler named mike]

Hello fellow modelers.. I have been looking for some type of database which would contain model kit specs such as wheelbase dimensions and other general info about each kit listed. I have found nothing. I have a few future projects in mind, some being 3-D printed bodies which are not created to be used with a specific donor kit. Some are dealer stock kits that I wish to build as funny cars. I think such a database could be somewhat of a helpful tool for other modelers. Heck it could be a modelers collaboration of information from owned kits posted. Currently I'm not building at this point in life due to caring 24/7 for my dad with dementia, so I've been collecting kits from my wish, want and must have to have list to add to the collection along with paring up these future projects with their donor kits. I'd love to hear some input on this idea of a database or any suggestions on how to go about comparing or finding a donor kit. 

Thanks...Mike

[stitchdup]

you would need to get a load of people to measure their kits for it to work but it would be useful. it would need a lot of measurements taken and would probably be best done from built upss rather than fresh kits. the interiors and engine bay length would be helpful too as some cars have a much longer hood than others so maybe the length from the back of the wheel arch to the firewall would help there. the same for the back axle to rear of the chassis. chassis width is probably more important than the chssis length as I'm sure most of us are reasonably proficient with a saw before needing to use such a database but it would sure make things easier if you're swapping a modern chassis under an older car and dont have a big stash like some of us. it would probably need to be in metric and imperial  measurements too. I'd be happy to add measurements

[A modeler named mike]

Thanks for your input on the idea Les..

I figured it would be a long shot that such a database exist..but it would be a great tool to have. Even if it did exist, more likely than not you'd still have to modify or alter the donor kit to fit your needs but it would be a great starting point for a project in mind.  Yes it would take an army of Modelers and a sergeant with the knowledge of how to manage such valuable data. ?°° Maybe it would be a groundbreaking idea that would sweep the modeling world and it could only be found here! ? IDK.. Maybe??

[1930fordpickup]

So you are looking for something like the drastic plastic sit that has instruction for models. None are around like what you are asking that I know of.  

[bobthehobbyguy]

I remember that the now defunct scale auto magazine did an article for pro stock and prostrate chassis for kitbashing. 

I know there was an article for what modern kits would be useful for updating older kits with minimal chassis details.

Such a database would be useful. However it would take a quite a bit to design it . Also it would have to be updated.

Besides that if it was something like scalemates how would you make sure the information was accurate.

[A modeler named mike]

8 hours ago, bobthehobbyguy said:

I remember that the now defunct scale auto magazine did an article for pro stock and prostrate chassis for kitbashing. 

I know there was an article for what modern kits would be useful for updating older kits with minimal chassis details.

Such a database would be useful. However it would take a quite a bit to design it . Also it would have to be updated.

Besides that if it was something like scalemates how would you make sure the information was accurate.

Thank you for the heads up on SAE magazine article I'll have to check that out. It might be worthwhile. As for keeping the dimensions accurate ? yeah that could be the biggest problems. Not everyone can follow directions, some can't read a ruler and than there's those individuals who suffer with dyslexia. Not good odds.. Its a good idea but I'm guessing I can lay this notion of such a database to rest. I appreciate the input, valid points or observation from you all. Time to move on.. Thanks.. Mike ✌?

[bobthehobbyguy]

Mike you still could get info here if you ask about specific resin ir 3d bodies.. 

You also mentioned funny cars. Which era are you planning to build? The Monogram funny car kits were all the same whellbase. The older funny cars weren't as standardized.

[A modeler named mike]

7 hours ago, bobthehobbyguy said:

Mike you still could get info here if you ask about specific resin ir 3d bodies.. 

You also mentioned funny cars. Which era are you planning to build? The Monogram funny car kits were all the same whellbase. The older funny cars weren't as standardized.

I appreciate the wealth of information that's offered on this forum by you and fellow modelers. As I said earlier I'm currently not able to build but when that changes I'll come a knocking for sure! One of those projects will be a 1/25th 3-D printed '62 VW type 3 1600 squareback wagon turned FC. From what I've read the AMT vega wagon kit is close with a WB of 3.75"/ 96mm compared to the 3-D body which WB is 3.625"/ 93mm. Not sure of the widths on the Vega rear and front axles. But that's why they make plastic stock, glue and razor saws if needed.

[Straightliner59]

14 hours ago, bobthehobbyguy said:

The Monogram funny car kits were all the same whellbase. 

Yes, they are all 125", according to rule.

Edited June 22, 2023 by Straightliner59

[A modeler named mike]

9 hours ago, Straightliner59 said:

Yes, they are all 125", according to rule.

Well that counts out the Mono FC kits for my VW, that 1/1 WB is 94.5". That's 30.5" of chassis more than I need. Best I go smaller, I'll have to dig out the Vega wagon kit or possibly the Chezoom Corvair kit? to follow up on the chassis and axles lengths to see if I'm on the right track. 

[stitchdup]

2 minutes ago, A modeler named mike said:

Well that counts out the Mono FC kits for my VW, that 1/1 WB is 94.5". That's 30.5" of chassis more than I need. Best I go smaller, I'll have to dig out the Vega wagon kit or possibly the Chezoom Corvair kit? to follow up on the chassis and axles lengths to see if I'm on the right track. 

what about the old bug kit that has a gasser option? i have one but for the life of me i cant mind on who made it but it can be done gasser or stock

[bobthehobbyguy]

Was IMC. I think the wheelbase was about 100 scale inchs(about 4 inches) whatever a real bugs wheelbase was.

Here is link to scalemates.

 

https://www.scalemates.com/kits/imc-114-volkswagen--942364

[A modeler named mike]

1 hour ago, stitchdup said:

what about the old bug kit that has a gasser option? i have one but for the life of me i cant mind on who made it but it can be done gasser or stock

That could be another viable candidate for this project. I don't have one in my stash yet but it's on my want list. I looked at the instruction sheet online. It's not the style chassis I want to use even though I'm using VW body.. 

[Straightliner59]

The Vega FC chassis should be close. The body is stock, except for the hole for the scoop, and the hood molded in. It's stock WB, I am almost sure.

[Bugatti Fan]

Kit bashing info is a bit like asking 'How long is a piece of string?'

So many kits. So many subjects. So many variables.

It really depends on what you want to make. In most cases it will be a case of what you have at any given time, what is available and what level of expertise it will take to do the conversion.

[A modeler named mike]

On 6/24/2023 at 3:43 AM, Bugatti Fan said:

Kit bashing info is a bit like asking 'How long is a piece of string?'

So many kits. So many subjects. So many variables.

It really depends on what you want to make. In most cases it will be a case of what you have at any given time, what is available and what level of expertise it will take to do the conversion.

Hence.. The reason for the existence of such a database, to help alleviate some of the homework as to which kits are possible or not by comparing the data on each kit that may be listed. You'll know it's buy it time or head to the stash time. I know many would say that's just fricken lazy or that's half the fun of the build, rifling through your kits looking for usable parts. It's sorta on the lines of what I think Andy (1930fordpickup) made reference too with Drastic Plastics posted instruction sheets. Another good tool for making comparisons in my eyes. All this being said I believe thus far my best bet for my project is the AMT vega wagon FC kit with some chassis alterations. I need to dig it out to verify..time will tell.. This will be my my first attempt at using a 3-D printed body instead of kit body as well as a first to scratch building the tin works and whatever else comes up. For now this project is in the planning and gathering stage till time is on my side... 

[Tabbysdaddy]

I thought people used 1:1 specifications for that sort of thing. 

[A modeler named mike]

1 minute ago, Tabbysdaddy said:

I thought people used 1:1 specifications for that sort of thing. 

Yes.. That's how I've been comparing so far. The problem is that not all model kits are accurate to scale so 1:1 specs doesn't always help with paring kits. For now its a continuation of homework, guessing and trial and error. No complaints just thinking outside of the box for a possible solution. 

[Bugatti Fan]

Such a data base is a nice thought Mike, and agreed it would be very handy.

But, the logistics of setting it up with potentially thousands of items to list for comparison in the first place, and also who would be prepared and have the time to do this, plus maintain and update it regularly?

Cannot see many volunteers stepping forward unfortunately due to the sheer commitment it would entail.