Resin models can be trimmed, sanded, glued, and painted just like plastic models. Here are some tips for assembly:
- Resin models may have more "flash" at the mold seams than usual. Carefully trim away the flash with a sharp hobby knife. Gently sand if necessary.
- There may be some visible air bubbles from the casting process. Usually these bubbles will be on the bottom of the model and not visible. If necessary, fill these bubble with model putty.
- Use caution when trimming small, delicate parts like gun barrels or fenders. Resin is more brittle than plastic. Properly support the model and there shouldn't be a problem. Look out for air bubbles as you trim, the model will be weaker near an air bubble.
- If any resin part becomes warped, you may soften the resin by running the part under hot water. Put pressure on the part against a hard flat surface as the part cools.
- Tracks may not be open between the road wheels. You may either paint these spaces black or take the time to carefully open up the spaces with a rotary tool.
- Wheels may be either glued in place or (with some effort ) made to roll. To allow the wheels to roll, drill a hole for the axle using a fine modeling drill. Place a 0.32 wire through the hole and carefully glue the wheels to both ends of the axle wire. Be careful to avoid gluing the axle.
- On open cab vehicles, paint the cab interior with a light color. On closed cab vehicles, paint the windows black to simulate glass or a dark interior.
- Resin models can be glued with super glue, rubber cement, or epoxy. When using super glue, the gap filling slow set type works best. Parts glued with rubber cement will slip out of place before drying if not clamped properly. Five minute epoxy probably works best.
- Resin models can be painted just like plastic models. You may want to wash the model with plain water and allow to thoroughly air dry. Try painting the underside of the model and let the paint dry. Test the paint adherence by scraping with your fingernail.
Resin models are often unique kits and give much more variety to your collection.
Mike Bunkermeister Creek