Hello everybody,
As usual on Sundays, I am giving a little update on how are things going with the GSE models.
There have been more tests going on and adjusting simple things such as the size of the hands for the figures and still have to adjust the helmet dimensions for them.
Some models that were already finished gave me a few small issues that had to be corrected. Besides testing these models I also started designing the PE parts for them, I already did a few etchings which was something that I needed to do due a change in the process and results have been satisfactory.
Instructions are also being completed, so far these have been finished for the tow tractor JST-25, the TLD 414 GPU, the baggage carts, LD3 trolleys and I am currently in the middle of the AST-1 instructions (to differentiate it from other AST-1 models, it will be named as per original model name, AST-1 F 600).
On a side note; the JST-25 tow tractor will be available in two versions separately, the one with cab and the other without, reason for this is that the building process is a little different and thus the instructions will be different as well.
This week I am going to do a test on clear resin. This is very important for me because it will change a little bit how the windows can be assembled, my goal is for example in the JST-25 truck, to use the method of masking everything that has to be clear (windows) and painting the cab, then removing the masking tape.
Clear resin will be important if I make more “civilian” vehicles in the future such as utility vans, airport buses or even the “follow me” cars.
I think this clear resin can also be something positive for the 1/200 scale where adding acetate sheets would be very tedious, having a clear part and having to mask from the outside would be the best option in my opinion.
Tests have to be done, UV and clear resin may not be friends, so I will try to apply a blocking UV coat to avoid yellowing, this is something that will be tested later to see if the yellowing is effectively avoided.
I know that test is a word I use a lot these days, but it is the truth… before having anything released to public, I must make sure that things are going to work out well.
The tests I am doing with these models are also going to be very useful for projects I already have started such as the 1/12 scale B737 cabin.
Some photos of the models; note that the tow truck can also pull the LD3 trolleys:
Just placing these models I had an idea on how this scenario may be represented, with the cargo loader side by side loading containers and a worker pushing the container towards the platform of the cargo loader. I am also planning to make the “squared” type trolleys.
The driver of the belt loader has his head lean to the right to make sure the truck is well positioned and may still be seated there as the workers are finishing loading the latest luggage.
It may not be seen in the photo, but the driver actually has his feet on top of the pedals, it was challenging to adjust everything to fit that way.
These are the parts that compose the Houchin C690 ground power unit.
I would like to say that if the tests of the current three models I am fixing now come out correct, I will begin with the 1/200 scale versions. I will be releasing these models in November, that is my goal, and although most of the 1/144 models will be ready, I want to wait till having the 1/200 models ready for a global release.
I am being more cautious now with shipping sizes and weights, so for this reason I am testing the packaging with the smaller blisters for the items such as the AST-1 which used to be packed in the bigger blister in the past.
By having the parts cut out from the base, there is a saving in weight and space, thus the smaller blister I currently use is the perfect one for these models.
That is all for now, I hope that next photos can be of all these models together with their PE in place and also a picture of the 1/200 AST-1 pusback.
Wish you all a nice week!
Guillem