I am thinking of ordering a coach from Labelle and was wondering what was “included” in the “roof rounding kit” for $14.00.
I am fairly confident I can do the job ( I am quite patient and methodical when doing this type of thing) but would like to hear from someone that has maybe ordered the roof rounding kit, is it worth the $, or how did it go just using sandpaper and a block of wood?
As always thanks.
They are shown here: https://www.labellemodels.com/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=roof+rounding&osCsid=ufbrp2eju0ag1sb320jo3dh3q3,
and a description of their use is shown here: https://www.labellemodels.com/manuals/Roof%20Contour.pdf?osCsid=ufbrp2eju0ag1sb320jo3dh3q3
Seems to me the kit includes some contour templates as well as some insert pieces that you can use rather than cut them yourself.
I don’t know what the difference is between the $4 kits and the $6 kits, as they look the same to me.
I’ve done some Ambroid coaches over the years. The clearstory basswoood roof stock comes out of the kit just sawn off square. Some whittling with a good sharp knife (Xacto) followed by sanding, gave me a nicely rounded roof end. Start sanding with medium to coarse paper, say 120 grit. Finish up with fine, 220 grit. The real trick is to get both ends of the roof rounded the same way. For this, I make a template out of stiff cardboard or styrene or whatever I have lying around. Use the template to check the curve of each end as you form it. To really do it right, use bits of soft wire or lead sheet trimmings to fill in the top bead of the clearstory roof. The top bead should follow the curve of the roof end and join the lower roof. Some whacks with a hammer will make copper wire square to match the bead. Lead is even softer and easier to shape. CA will bond the bits of wire good and hard. A little putty, a little sanding, and they will blend right into the roof.
Over the years, I heard some intimidating things about how difficult shaping the roof ends was. On the other hand, I’m pretty handy working with wood. When I finally took one on, I found it really a piece of cake. Use a template and keep checking things as you go and you’ll be ok if you’re good working with wood. If not, then the kit will boost your confidence so that when you’ve done one or two, you should be ok on your own.
Thanks guys.
Maxman I don’t know why I couldn’t find those links, I thought I had seen every page of Labelle’s website, thanks.
While I have your attention. What would we use for interiors, windows, I am thinking of ordering some larger slide covers and this great tool to handle them with. I think slide covers make great windows.
https://www.tedpella.com/histo_html/slides-large.htm#anchor528-99
Also what about passenger car couplers and trucks?
Also should I prime the pieces before assembly as I do with other wood kits, or can I get away without priming until it is put together?
Now that I am getting ( a little ) more proficient with my airbrush, I am thinking that is the way to go.