This is a 1/16 scale Model T Van by Entex. There are decidedly fewer parts to the Model T kit than the Datsun, but my summation is there were fewer parts to the real Model T than the real Datsun as well. :D
The final model will be 9.5 inches long, so it should work well regardless of being a smaller scale than the building. The kit even has real wood — they call it micro wood. I’ll be making my own decals as well as a few adjustments here and there.
I even went to the local Volo Auto Museum to have a looksee at their vintage Fords. This is quite the contraption, no? Many a Chicago winter would call for such a beast.
Before I begin, I thought you might like to check out a few videos I found while researching. The first one shows a gal learning to drive a Model T at the Henry Ford Museum along with some excellent vintage off-road footage. The second just takes you for a ride. Feel that wind in your hair?!! Brisk! The last one is just awesome. :D
The sprues have been primed with their respective base colors. Even though models are molded in color, I still prefer a painted finish for more realism. I use spray primers for uniform coverage.
There are ten pages of assembly instructions, and as usual this build starts with the engine. I actually ended up buying two kits because of operator error (oops), but that means I have plenty of spare parts. I think some of the leftovers will make for delightful junk at Milo Valley Farm.
In addition to the videos, I located some engine photos online and saw some cars in person at the Volo Auto Museum, so I’ve followed those as a guideline for color and finish. I use Testors jar paints and acrylics on plastic models after priming in base colors. These are the tiny brushes I use, though many of the smaller details are painted with toothpicks and straight pins.
Here is the engine in the primed metallic base color. Rather fake looking.
After some further painting, I now have a relatively clean engine in flat black with bronze bolts that looks heavier and more solid. I have more bolts to detail, but I’m calling it a night. I rusted one part that might not have rusted this quickly in a newer vehicle, but we’ll call it artistic license. Once I’m further along, the whole assembly will receive washes and such to tone down the shiny newness. I want a recent vehicle with a little bit of road experience. :]
Half of page one done! :D
