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'Grandpa Special' 1/25 1974 Challenger


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Today it begins! My autumn project of creating a 1974 Dodge Challenger. The base kit is by AMT. I also have the Hart's Parts conversion set to order as well as a 3D printed Chrysler LA from Resins by Reese. Resin wheel covers were provided by a fellow forum member. I will start out by doing a white glue build up Ala Scale Model Experiment. This is to check fitment and to modify parts to fit correctly before committing to solvent. I am planning on doing step by step updates as well as video updates on my YouTube Channel, "G&A Scale Model Apprentice." For an introduction to this project please visit this thread:

I leave you with shots of the sprues and thanks everyone for their help so far! 

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8/4/24: not much done today, I started with the wheels. There were no issues with their fit or molding. I use mod podge because it's thicker than regular white glue and seems to be more flexible. I then cleaned up the frame. Notice the cut out of the rear fenders. The mold mark I hilighted as well as ejector pin marks, they will be removed as well. 

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08/05/24 starting with the suspension, cleaning up the front end as well as opening up the gusset of plastic between the sway bars really makes it look more in scale. The exhausts had flash and mold seem through the entire length, and the tips will have to be opened up. There is a gap on the rear diff that will be filled as well as a gap on the front end that will be shared up with some sheet styrene. On the interior, the steering column will have to be modified to not sit on the seat, as well as basic seam work on the seats and dash.

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Completing the basic white glue build up, I worked on seam lines and other odds and ends. The roof was glued to the front first, then the c pillers, checking position with the rear window. So far the kit is as good as any other AMT, now I've got to wait for the Hart's Parts conversion and the VCG Chrysler LA. See you all soon!

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  • 3 weeks later...

Here's the completed white glue build up. The kit is pretty good, however I think my frame is warped. There are a few things to do, close up the body/bumper separation being the biggest.  With all that being said, now the real fun begins! The resin engine as well as the real build now. Stay tuned!

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Great demonstration of the conversion parts. Now I know what I will be up against. If you are looking to make the engine more correct, the valve covers have to be reshaped some. They are too squared off compared to the early 70’s small block valve covers. Otherwise, I love the VCG kit. Keep the good stuff coming!

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  • 3 weeks later...

Sorry for not posting for a few weeks, however today I was able to get back on with the Challenger. I worked on the interior and sprayed it with Tamiya XF-1. instead of using multiple paints, I just brushed on gloss varnish to differentiate between the different materials in the interior. The wood was done with various brown colors and dry brushing. I may redo the dash, but I'll let it set and see if it evens out. Thanks for looking! 

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  • 1 month later...

I'm back! And so is the Dodge. Interior is done and ready to go. I painted the engine blue and all I can say is 'Wow.' Sorting the parts and keeping everything straight really is a chore, especially the engine parts. I hope to have this one done by Christmas, and I think I'm on track.

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