My first semi-scratch build

[KD11]

I have attempted my first scratch build chassis. I am running a Carrera digital 132 Oval, so I knew I would be adding the Carrera digital module. I had purchased a 1940 ford coupe AMT model for the body and had purchased a H & R chassis. I could of used the chassis as is but decided to follow Harry's instructions the best I could to build the front rails. My first attempt was ok but I didn't bend the chassis rails straight, slightly bent off to the right. I decided to solder them in anyway and boy was my soldering ugly!! I soldered on the front axle tube and guide mount. Now I had to figure out how to mount the digital module as it is to wide to set in between the rails. I used some double sided tape to hold the module in place so I could test to make sure it worked and the car would activate the lane changers. I temporarily mounted the body and tested the car. All seemed to work ok but I needed to redo the chassis rails and clean up the ugly soldering job. With the chassis rails fixed and chassis cleaned up I then added a piece of brass to permanently mount the digital module. I used the original car interior and mounted the body using brass tabs that I tapped and screwed onto the chassis. Then I glued the body to the body mount tabs. Tested the car again and it seemed to run ok but the H & R tires did not have any grip so I purchased a pair of Pro-Track silicone tires from our local shop. These are better but I will purchase a pair of PGT tires in the near future. Next was to paint the body, this turned out to be real pain. I thought I would learn how to use an airbrush and use Acrylic paint. As it turned out it is easier said that done. I have lots to learn about using an airbrush as the paint still isn't dry. I guess on put the paint on too thick or didn't let the previous coats dry. Anyway I decided to add the LED headlights and tail lights. All in all I think it turned out ok and I have begun the learning process of finding out what works and what doesn't. Thanks to all of you that provide such great information for us newbies.
Keith

[HomeRacingWorld]

Outstanding. That's the way, just give it a go and look what happens:)

[btaylor]

Certainly doesnt look anything like a first build chassis! I wish mine looked that good!
nice work, and the body choice compliments it.

Bob

[TsgtRet]

Outstanding work! I won't even attempt a brass chassis until I get a decent soldering iron/gun. The light kit sets it off nicely.

[woodman]

Keith that turned out great. ...l need to get back on my 49 Ford.......

[KD11]

Thanks for all of the kind comments. I would like to build some jalopies in either 1/32 or 1/24 scale. I know some of you guys are making your own resin bodies for your builds. Do any of you sell the bodies you make? If so let me know I would like to purchase several.
Keith

[RazorJon]

stop the presses :text-bravo:

first time out of the gate and head lights too :bow-blue:

very well done, I am sure a few of our casters would love to help out your needs

[MrAdept]

The chassis looks awesome especially as it has the Carrera digital board attached.

Mark

[buspor63]

That's a great build from start to finish. Hmm, I like those bumpers, there's some times when those would be handy on my 917K

[Czar]

Better than good - it is inspiring!

[bobbyraz49]

Stunning !

[TuscoTodd]

WOW!!!
That is an IMPRESSIVE first build!
Kudos!!!

[ddyke]

Nothing semi about that!

[proxieken]

Very nice job. I was wondering if anyone puts digital in the older style chassis, and the answer is apparently yes. This gives me some inspiration for sure.