Scratch built handling machine project

[Poyks]

Here we go then...



Horizontal mid-plate

This time looking a bit like a ping-pong bat paddle, cut from half inch balsa.





Vertical centre struts

Cut from half inch balsa, these define the vertical centre shape.





Upper body forming struts

Defining the full shape of the top of the model.





Lower body forming struts

It's taking shape already. I've not included the bottom fin detail on this model at this stage, as it is a smaller feature on the HM, and will be better added later.





Body cladding will be next, watch this space.

[Refugee]

Is balsa wood the really light stuff, like they use in primary schools that can be a cm or maybe a bit less in thickness and cut with scissors?

[Poyks]

Yep it's real light and very strong, and great for cutting with a craft knife. The thicker stuff is a bit harder to get through and requires a hack saw and a bit of patience. It's mainly used in the construction of radio control aircraft.

[Refugee]

hmmm, I suppose I might evan be able to use it then lol.

[Poyks]

Top cladding and filling

The top is cladded and filled with balsa pieces.





This is the first layer of filler. This will be sanded, re-filled and sanded further.

[Poyks]

Top contouring and priming

I've spent a good long time contouring the top of the model using thin filler and fine grade sandpaper.





A good thick layer of primer binds everything together and shows any small imperfections, which can be treated later.

[D.A.V.E]

It's looking good so far! ohmigodisocantwaitforthistobefinishediveforgottenhowtospacemywordsyeahbutnobutamibovveredshutup

(*apologises and leaves*)

[Tripod]

He's good!

Tripod

[Poyks]

Bottom half cladding and filling

Again, the basic outer shape is formed from balsa.





....and after a few hours of filling, sanding and priming;





Because the hood on the handling machine has more hollow detail than the fighting machine, I'll be building it as a separate detachable unit. I'll start on that next.

[D.A.V.E]

oh ... you just know this is gonna be good

[Anim8tr]

Looking real good, Poyks! I'll be checking this thread!

[andyd4h]

Man that is gonna rock as much as your Fighting Machine did. GREAT work again Poyks

[Poyks]

Preparation for hood section

I've carved the existing front section to match the designed lining for the hood unit, creating a recess to make room for the "eyes".





Hood section frame

I shall use this basic frame to build up the hood unit with balsa and filler. The bottom of the frame will remain hollow to allow insertion of the finished "eyes" after painting. This will look a lot better that just building up the model and leaving all the painting until last.

[Bayne]

[glow=red,2,300]Wow! That's looking great already!

Plan to have any people in the cage when it's done?
[/glow]

[Poyks]

There may well be people in the basket Bayne.


Hood section filling, sanding and priming

This being the focal point of the whole model, I've taken a long time to get it right. Here, the frame has been covered, filled and sanded. I then very carefully cut out the basic hood opening.





More delicate sanding and filling.





I thought I would do a test fit with the rest of the model, and it's pretty good, just a few adjustments to make.

[jeffwaynefan]

Looking good, looking good

[Chris Oakley]

Liking it a hell of a lot - keep it up. ;D

[Commandingtripod]

You could open an online store ;D

[Graz]

Oh boy.oh boy,oh boy... Now that really is starting to look the biz. Great inspiration.

[Thunder Child]

This one is going to be awesome too!