Discover how modern restoration techniques overcome early diecast engineering challenges to transform imperfect relics into timeless, miniature masterpieces.
Embarking on the journey of restoring early diecast models is an odyssey of passion and precision. Every weathered detail and faded emblem holds a history, whispering tales of bygone eras. The process is much like the age-old adage—turning a sow’s ear into a silk purse—where the humble and overlooked is transformed into a masterpiece of renewed glory. As each model is meticulously revived, the transformation becomes a testament to creativity, perseverance, and the profound joy of breathing new life into cherished relics.
Limitations of Early Diecast Models and Moulding Engineering
While the restoration journey is deeply fulfilling, it also offers a window into the inherent limitations of early diecast models. Pioneering moulding techniques of the past, although innovative for their time, often produced pieces that bear the marks of early engineering constraints. Many models exhibit imperfections such as flash lines, uneven surfaces, or slight misalignments—artifacts of the simpler, less precise manufacturing processes used decades ago. Additionally, the drive to produce models on a mass scale sometimes necessitated compromises in detail and accuracy, meaning that intricate features were simplified. These limitations, however, are not just challenges; they are also opportunities. Recognizing the original engineering constraints allows restorers to celebrate the historical context of these pieces while employing modern techniques to enhance and preserve their unique character.
1961 Hubley 1929 Ford Model A Station Wagon Diecast Restoration
Restoration and Detailing Process: by Dalt Myberg
Mr.Hobby Brown lacquer is the body colour with 2K clear top coat.Tamiya LP Red for wheels. Vinyl roof is Tamyia Semi-gloss Black.
Scratch built the typical “winged” raderator cap that was only used at the Piquette Ave plant in Detroit. Headlight reflectors I used a black wash to bring out the fresenal lines and then used 2K clear to give the glass shine. Rad is Molotow Chrome.
Black and Nato Black in Tamiya LP on fenders with 2K clear coat.
Wired spark plug wires on this engine.
Used Tamiya Black Panel Line Wash on the engine shroud. Molotow Chrome for the running boards but needed to lower the shine to a nickel color. Alclad II Clear did the trick.
Molotow Chrome for the gas cap and also added the missing windshield glass.
Seats Tamiya LP Nato black with semi-gloss clear coat. Picked out dash details with Molotow Chrome. Being rudimentary detail this is the best that can be done.
Tamiya LP Red Clear: I really liked that it gives the look of red glass. The reflective properties of this red clear on the stop light signal does the trick.
Maple veneers fills in the station wagon part. Frame painted in Tamiya Wood Deck LP laquer.
Top coat finish is 4 or 5 coats of Tamiya Semi-Gloss LP Clear. The wood just kept sucking up the laquer. In the end looks to give the result I was looking for.
Picked out the exhaust and muffler under the chassis. Not much can be done to make the fasteners go away. Its a Hubley…
I knew here was a reason to buying this patch at the Ford Museum Gift Shop.
James (Doc) Wooldridge
James is an enthusiastic scale modeller, researcher, and amateur historian with a passion for bringing the art of scale modelling to life. He regularly contributes insightful articles to respected publications, including Scalemates, and his work is often highlighted in Google Featured Snippets. As a dynamic voice in a dedicated Facebook group, he shares progressive ideas and expertise with a thriving community of enthusiasts. Additionally, he hosts and presents engaging video content for a Scale Modelling Club, further spreading his love for the craft. James is also a founding executive member of both KSM–IPMS and Kawartha Scale Modellers, cementing his status as a key influencer in the scale modelling world.💡📏 📐📱🎬 📷 🎥
