Custom Models
 

How do you guys customize your models, as far as lowering etc. I am looking into getting a 67-72 model to build for a smaller version of what i want my truck to look like when finished. I am curious as to how you guys do the crazy things that you guys do to these things. So if you got anything, post up a pic and explain how you did it!

Re: Custom Models
 

Here's a 72 4x4 I build a few years ago. The frame is made from 3 55 Cameo frames. The body lift and springs are scratch built.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...0Image0003.jpg


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

There`s my old truck.^

As far as lowering goes on the 67/72 kits,the chassis is a one pc. mold with the frame,floor pans,and suspension fixed together.The axle can just be put through holes located higher up on the chassis.I think these kits have an insert with a pair of axle holes in each,with one upper ones being for lowering.

What other tricks did you have in mind?You need an exacto-type hobby knife.Hobby stores sell tubing,sheet,and channel stock in plastic.there`s kit bashing,custom made parts,photo-etch plating,etc.

Re: Custom Models
 

Nice 72 custom camper!
Special K, i was also interested in how you would cut down a lwb to swb. From what i have seen on here they dont make a swb model kit? Also is it even possible to shave things like door handles, would you just sand them off? Maybe some tips on painting these things, do you use airbrush, spray can etc. Also is it possible to get a 69 or 70 grille, or a model from those years? Boy thats alot of questions, and im sure i could think of some more. I used to put together some cars when i was about 7 or 8 but i kinda lost interest. Thanks for the info too.

Re: Custom Models
 

I just sand off trim.The bodies can use alot of massaging for a custom job.The only shortbed is the GMC Fenderside (Stepside).The wide bed is custom molded these days.You can interchange grilles,cabs,whatever.Kit bashin`& custom resin parts is what it takes for a short widebed.Anything can be done with the skill.Custom Camper can show some o his handywork.

Re: Custom Models
 

Here's another custom. Used 2 beds and frames to make a Longhorn.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...5Image0010.jpg

Here's an in progress shot of the Longhorn
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...2Image0002.jpg

Used a spare bed to make this trailer.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...5Image0009.jpg

This one is mostly out of the box. Changed wheels and tires and added a top.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...4Image0015.jpg

Here's a long bed I cut down to make a half cab blazer
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...5Image0011.jpg

Here's the short step that Special-K mentioned
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...models0011.jpg

Lowering is not hard. The newer kits use plastic pin to hold the front wheels on. You can drill new holes to lower the front. In the rear I glue a piece of round plastic tube into the molded in diff and use the metal axle in the tube...


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

Here's a few group shots of my 67-72's.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...0Image0009.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...0Image0011.jpg

When you get good at scratch building you can build one of these. Both trucks have alot of scratch building in them.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v2...dels0002-1.jpg


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

I posted this about a guy that sells a SWB 67/68 resin model...

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=321298

Re: Custom Models
 

Hey Mike,iwhat did you do with the 2wd chassis?

Re: Custom Models
 

haven't touched anything yet Tim, you need it?

Re: Custom Models
 

Sure.I could always use it.I have a small junkyard of parts.

Re: Custom Models
 

Holy cow custom camper, lots of cool stuff there! So they do sell a 69 70 model? Would it be possible to cut down a lwb instead of buying the resin or would that be too difficult? Thanks a lot for all the info!

Re: Custom Models
 

It's a PITA to cut down a long bed. You can find original 69-70's but they are getting expensive. I have an original 69 that I paid $45 for a few years ago. The best thing to do is practice. I've been building for many years and still mess up...


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

i've seen your shed Tim, I agree! :lol:

Re: Custom Models
 

I had a guy sell me a box full of misc. 67/72 partial kits a few years ago...of plastic model parts,not real junk!:lol:

Re: Custom Models
 

Where do you find the GMC's??? I've found lots of the 67-72 Chevy's....I need one! :)

Re: Custom Models
 

There was a`71 Wideside kit and a`72 SWB Fenderside.Around 1990 the Fenderside was re-released.AMT called it a Stepside.There`s a picture of a built red model on the box and they aren`t crazy high priced.There`s a picture o a black stock truck on the`72 box.The LWB Wideside has a painting of a red truck with park ranger on the doors.

Re: Custom Models
 

A model company called Round 2 is supposed to reissue the GMC step in 2010...


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

Alright, ill probably look into getting the resin bed then. I might just have to go without the 69-70 grille, i dont feel like paying $45 just for the grille. Msgross, in the thread you posted you said something about a bed without trim, any info on this?

Re: Custom Models
 

Bandit Resins sells a short bed, and so does Garage cast or something like that. Trevor

Re: Custom Models
 

here is what Bandit Resins sell:
Conversion Parts
1969 Blazer Conversion
1970 Chevy Pickup Conversion
1976 / 1977 Ford Pickup Conversion
GMC Jimmy Conversion
GMC Pickup Truck Short Bed

Re: Custom Models
 

Looked up the website, looks like everything i need! Thanks alot! I think that i have read on the internet that resin is not the same as the plastic stuff as far as glueing. Is there any other differences, like paint adhesion etc.

Re: Custom Models
 

Resin will accept any automotive paints, even lacquer. It's best to use CA glue for resins. You can also use auto body fillers to repair or reshape...


Chuck

Re: Custom Models
 

Like what he said, super glue (CA) works best for resin parts. It is always best to wash resin with some soap and water and let dry before painting. Also, you can not strip resin parts of paint as easy as plastic. Trevor

Re: Custom Models
 

Ok thats simple enough. Thanks.