Revell Henry J Gasser

[Exotics_Builder]

This is the first, and likely the last, Gasser model I am doing.  The club has a theme for our March contest for Gassers, per NHRA pre-1973 rules (fortunately a member posted them).  Drag Racers in general are not in my wheelhouse, as I normally do road racing or the occasional rally car.  But, I had won the Gasser kit as a door prize, so decided to tackle it.

The kit is not a new molding and has some "issues".  Not the least of which is the poor representation of the Ford SOHC engine.  So, I decided to make some corrections, including a new engine.

Out of a variety of engine choices, I elected to use the Texas 3D Customs blown 409 engine.  It is nicely detailed including an alternator with drive belt.  Morgan Automotive Detail provided the wired distributor along with Model Car Garage looms.  To use this engine I had to craft a new cross bar for the transmission and recess a section of the firewall for fit.  I also had to put a dent/cleft in the upper part of the recess section to get the dashboard to fit.  

I am still finishing the engine detailing and getting ready to fit the chassis to the interior.  I am adding some linkage for the carbs and fuel lines with block.  A coil has been added to the firewall and I have a fuel pump with filter ready to install.

For the body, I elected to use Tamiya TS-41 Coral Blue.  This was done with the Shaker can.  I applied the decals I wanted use, a combination of Slixx, STS, Gofer and Decals by Lucas.  I then covered with Tamiya TS-13 Gloss Clear (again Shaker can).  Wheels and tires came from AMT Parts Packs as I was not enamored with the kit offerings.

Next steps will be finishing the engine detail, joining the chassis and interior, finishing the interior and final assembly.  Here are some photos of the To-Date progress:

 

[Zippi]

That 51 Henry J is looking pretty kewl.  I built one a few years ago and yeah, there are a few issues.  I diggin this build.

[Sledsel]

I built this as a kid and boy was it a pain... I finished it but not well. I do have one in my stash and am looking forward to seeing this build. Looks good so far!

[stavanzer]

Man, Gerry, your skills are really making a Silk Purse out of this kit. Awesome work so far.