Danny Wing

I found it helpful to download and print all of the build instructions. I kept them in a binder on by build table for visual reference. If I didn't understand an assembly I watched the appropriate video. I didn't find the videos necessary very often. Having the entire kit was a joy. One hint that may help is when you get to final assembly of mating the body to the chassis you can eliminate some of the wire extensions to make it easier to fit the two together.

This is only my second "Build Diary" posting but having the complete kit kept me doing marathon build sessions. I am posting some pictures of mods made. This mostly included the addition of nuts and bolts to the suspension assemblies and a few other parts as well as in my first posted motor pictures. I plan to paint the added hardware black to match the frame but presently enjoy looking at them as is in my attempt to add some slight realism. I could have gone further with the nuts and bolts but chose to stop as I had accomplished the goal I set. Other than the hardware added, I thought the gauges should have been illuminated as part of the kit. I used LED and some fiberoptics and spliced the wiring to the headlamp circuit. I enjoy building the larger scale models more than the small scale because of my old and sometimes shaky hands. I am currently building a Pocher 1/8 kit and a large scale model of the MT. Washington paddle boat. There is also a stack of others waiting that I have been waiting to build for a while once time allows. In the past I have built many smaller scale models and a few large Pochers. The new Lambo model is getting catching my interest right now. Not sure if there will ever be enough time to get to that one. One last though about the Cobra model, the chrome plating doesn't seem to be a very good quality and that was disappointing for such an expensive model. I hope some of the mods inspire others to get creative. The end result is much more rewarding even if it's not perfect.

I too was disappointed with the inaccurate engine. However, this is a model that is expensive but in the price range of current 1/8 models that are not really any better. It is not a museum quality example but it also does not cost $10,000. The picture of the Cobra at Volo is absolutely a replica. Aside from the engine detail there is a lot of room for this model to vary considering how real replica owners accept non original variances.

I decided to take a pass on writing about the first pack assembly. Everyone building the Cobra knows the story. Instead, I wanted to show some simple modifications anyone can do without being a genius model builder. I am currently building three large scale models and alternating time with each. Some small enhancements give me a sense of accomplishment over building by the instruction manual. I wanted to add a little more detail to the engine. It is not a good representation of the FE block so thought this would not ruin the look and be appropriate. I drilled a few holes and added hex bolts. Then added some wires to the coil and a piece of hose to the exposed carb fuel inlets. A bent paperclip makes a fair looking dipstick Before doing all of this, I painted the block blue and the bell housing and transmission black.

I used acetone and quickly wiped the letters off. Be very careful with acetone. It will ruin any plastic parts it contacts.

I had the same problem on my first tire experience. The reason the lettering came off is that when you drag the wheel across the tire while inserting it, it scrapes the lettering off. Just be careful to position the wheel so it doesn't contact the lettering. I plan to remove the lettering on the inside tire surfaces as the real street tires only had lettering on one side.

Your rolling chassis modifications are just about what I have in mind for my own. I recently received my full kit. I am currently searching the forum for new ideas to bring the model to a more realistic appearance before I begin. Your motor modifications are very inspiring. I agree that the kit 427 doesn't resemble the real thing. Too bad that the model makers come up short with that.