ERTL B281VO.  Nearest model is as it comes from the factory.  Other two have had the sides painted.  John

@coach joe posted:

So here are some recent acquisitions:I found this one on a toy rack at the supermarket.  You know the rack with all the 1/30something Corvettes, Ferraris and Aston Martins.  It looked about the right size but once I peeled the price sticker off at home it had a scale 1/52 on the bottom.  It will still work.  The grill looks a little like an old IH but could be Russian or Eastern European.  I've already added a driver,  have to paint the wheels and front bumper white and may paint the steel struts on the rack body black.

1953 was a good year at the yellow and black dollar store.All 1953, all licensed by GM or Ford and made by Welly.  A Chevy, an El Dorado, and a Ford.  I remember some one once complaining he couldn't find regular basic cars.  While the El Dorado may not be basic transportation the Chevy and Ford qualify even though they are both convertible.  Just wish they weren't both the same color.

Joe, nice selection of cars...I've been looking for a '54 Chevy sedan or convertible...can't seem to find one Great looking "stake body" too...!

Hello car fans...Here I am sitting in the middle of the Texas winter fiasco with 20 million people without power (not me thank God), temperatures in single digits, and more snow and ice on the ground than we have seen since moving here 15 years ago.  What a mess!! The good news was that yesterday, after 3 days trapped in the house, I was forced to take a risk and travel to the drug store.  Since Walgreens is one of my favorite "die cast car dealers" while waiting for prescriptions I naturally had to shop the car rack.  Well I found the following...a beautiful cobalt blue 1963 spit window Corvette coupe.  The absolute "holy grail" of classic Corvettes.  Since I am kinda a 'Vette guy (I have a '98 C5 convertible) I just had to have it.  Its a little big at 1/36 but since IRL the Corvette is a relatively small car it seems to fit in.

Here is the side view, showing the classic outline of the fastback style.  Note fender flags, a little detail that I know is correct and at this price (5$) is a real tribute to the manufacturer "Kinsmart" (China of course).

A top type view, showing that all important split window styling.  Of course IRL this made any possibility of rear vision nearly impossible hence it was removed in '64.  Thus making the '63 a prized, single year classic.

A better view of the split window fastback treatment.  Note the detail in the gas cap, it is in the right place, raised as IRL and contains the Corvette flags symbol.  Again a really neat detail.

Top view of the hood.

OBTW, thanks to Carpetrain for the '62 T-Bird convertible, my wife and I had one of these in about 1978 and it was so cool, huge, and only seated two if you used the (Fiberglas) tonneau cover.  Due to the top going into the trunk and all the (in those days) hydraulics and relays the trunk had a huge area but was only about 12" deep.  When we went to the grocery, we had to ask them to only pack the bags 1/2 full or the trunk wouldn't close.  Also, if you watch the show "Wheeler Dealers" on the "Motor Trend" channel, you might have seen that they restored an AH 3000 and it sold at auction for $60,000 !!!

Great cars everyone.

Don

Don, that's a nice looking "Stingray"...like the color!  Added two VW's to the layout today, and the '63 Splint Window 'Vette" is an old standby

Picked up the "Gulf" delivery van recently...great for small deliveries to the local gas stations...

Nice Paul'.. Is that a Brooklyn model'...Looks like a real beauty.. Pontiac right'..

Ted, as usual, you're right on both counts... a little closer look...

@Capetrainman posted:

Ted, as usual, you're right on both counts... a little closer look...

That is indeed a beauty.  Pontiac also made hearses for Argentina, same year 1954.... I see you removed your email from your profile',,  I wanted to send you something...???

Great pics Guys. Thanks for sharing

Paul, great photo, just a different angle!

1955 Chevy "Nomad" on the lot ready for pick-up...

Paul. Can you deliver that to the Ozark Foothills of Missouri?? Very nice and a great pic also. Thanks for sharing

Sure thing, Lee...I'll get a car carrier on the line today...closed van, of course!

Nice looking Nomad Paul'... ALways liked them'... What brand is this one...? A few more showroom, lot and chuvies... shots would be nice'...😁

Thanks, Ted...the Nomad is a Brooklin...picked it up during the Great Recession for a song!  Sales will most likely pickup at the dealership with the better weather ahead...stay tuned

Got this today on clearance at Hobby Lobby for $1.99.  It was the only vehicle they had in O size (or close to it).

They did have a few military trucks on clearance, too, but I would say they were probably 1:64 or even a bit smaller, although the box didn't specify.

@coach joe posted:

So here are some recent acquisitions:I found this one on a toy rack at the supermarket.  You know the rack with all the 1/30something Corvettes, Ferraris and Aston Martins.  It looked about the right size but once I peeled the price sticker off at home it had a scale 1/52 on the bottom.  It will still work.  The grill looks a little like an old IH but could be Russian or Eastern European.  I've already added a driver,  have to paint the wheels and front bumper white and may paint the steel struts on the rack body black.

1953 was a good year at the yellow and black dollar store.All 1953, all licensed by GM or Ford and made by Welly.  A Chevy, an El Dorado, and a Ford.  I remember some one once complaining he couldn't find regular basic cars.  While the El Dorado may not be basic transportation the Chevy and Ford qualify even though they are both convertible.  Just wish they weren't both the same color.

So normally these would be used as-is, maybe a driver added since that's easy in convertibles.  But after hanging out here with you guys that seems unacceptable.  So as I mentioned above I painted the truck bumper and wheels white, the steel frame of the body black and added a driver.  I did some research on the '53 Bel Air and found it did come in a similar color, Campus Cream.  That exterior color was often paired with a two tone green interior.  I found a detail page that showed which parts were Woodland Green and which parts were the lighter Surf Green.  Using my wife's craft paints I substituted Hunter Green and Green Teal.  Even the convertible top would have been green.  I remember the old steel dash boards being the same color as the body but according to the sheet I found the top of the dash board was Woodland Green. For some reason Welley feels the need to have objects in the back seat.  The Bel Air has two boxes or presents in theback seat.  I chose brown paper wrapped boxes because I didn't want a color riot going on. I took pictures of the 1/52 truck next to the Bel Air and it is more than acceptable as a farm truck.  There is a driver in the truck, you just can't see him in the photos.

Brad. Great fine on the Thunder Chicken

Joe, you did a beautiful job on these vehicles in bringing them to life'. The Belair looks absolutely fantastic'... I love the colors as those different greens from the 40s and 50s are some of my favorites....  Very nice work  Joe!!!!!!👌⭐👍😁

Joe, nice detail work on the cars...nothing like a nice interior color to contrast the exterior of the car. I'm not familiar with Welly, but I'll check around...

@Capetrainman posted:

Joe, nice detail work on the cars...nothing like a nice interior color to contrast the exterior of the car. I'm not familiar with Welly, but I'll check around...

The Hobby Lobby car was a Welly.

Joe. I agree with the others you did a fabulous job on that car.

Don't believe I posted the '59 Chevy and the red T-bird before

Paul. That pic looks like a Post Card beautiful thanks for sharing

Indeed, that is a very good looking photo'.. Nice job on the lighting, as it gives it a sense of actual activity.  The corner building, and the steam loco make the picture'...👍

Thanks guys...the guy below lighting up owns the black Chrysler...

Thanks guys.  I like the way they both came out.  The truck was pretty easy, the Bel Air interior was tedious but enjoyable.  I had no idea of what color interior would go with a cream colored car except maybe brown or tan so I did some research and came up with some good detailed information. 

Nice job, Coach - the Bel-Air is sweet.

My Milkman finally has a truck. I wanted a Sealtest Divco because my father worked for them for a short time, found this one.

Well I hate to admit but I am getting old'.. I started restoring Dinky and Corgi die cast cars, thanks to Joel' forum member.  After starting this new project my good eye, went bad. That was in December.   I had a dense cataract removed.  Two weeks later, I had to have it redone as it developed microscopic particles.. from the cataract breaking up.  Lots of different eye drops applied. 

I'm told 1 in 100,000 develop the problem.  Any way, finally, I again can see what I'm doing to a degree.  Here is the first completed restoration.  A Dinky 49 Ford Sedan.  Before and after shots.  Glass and an interior added.

I had to spray paint at 50 degrees, as the weather has been terrible.  So, you'll see some bubbles.  its from the low temperature painting outdoors...

before:

After dismantling, removing paint, sanding, polishing, undercoating, and taping.

Final product:

Seafoam Green and Bimini Blue'.. 1949 Ford Actual colors'..

Thanks for looking 👀 not a 100%, but getting there'..😎

Ted...great restoration...the two-tone color brings the car to life!  Glad to hear you're on the mend after a challenging period with the cataracts...better restoration days ahead

Ted:  Great restoration and car looks super. Hope you are recovering well, keep hope for the future in regard to your eye.

Don ( another 1 eye’d 76 year old)

Great finish Ted. Hope you get better I’ll be praying for you.

Ted, I think you did a great job. You really took it to the next level with the glass and interior. I didn’t try that until like car 12. Besides that, jumping into two tone on your 1st car. So what did you do with the base? Seal it with lacquer, or repaint in black? As you know, I usually sand mine and seal it to protect the patina.

very interesting on the wheels too. I never tried two colors, really brings out the “dog dish” style of the covers. I may have to give that a try.

Joel

Inspired by "leapinlarry's" Tucker Dealership...the '55 Chevy Belair took its place on the roof of the dealership today!  Although a little breezy up there, management hopes it's placement there will bring in some new business

Cleaned and moved some vehicles on the layout today

Paul, I'm sure sales will pick up with the brunette, Marilyn Monroe, on the roof with the Chuvie'.... Is that a Artista figure'.. You have the best figures'....

Lee, you've got some great looking vehicles!  The industrial area reminds of an area near where I grew up.  Nothing better than a vintage "Mack" cab, or maybe a "Peterbilt" or "Kentworth"  Is the tractor pulling the Pacific Fruit Express refrigerator unit a Peterbuilt or Kentworth?

@lee drennen posted:

Cleaned and moved some vehicles on the layout today

Lee, is that blue and white a Corvair? My father had a bronze one and I may pick up a scale version someday.

Yours is a great looking model and I like the opening four doors and that classic tear deck with the louvers.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

@Capetrainman posted:

Lee, you've got some great looking vehicles!  The industrial area reminds of an area near where I grew up.  Nothing better than a vintage "Mack" cab, or maybe a "Peterbilt" or "Kentworth"  Is the tractor pulling the Pacific Fruit Express refrigerator unit a Peterbuilt or Kentworth?

Thanks for the complement Paul. It’s a old Revell Kenworth model that I put some Don Mills Wheels and Tires on. Where did you grow up at? I love the East Coast I tried to model my layout like the places I used to see when I hauled freight back East.

@TomlinsonRunRR posted:

Lee, is that blue and white a Corvair? My father had a bronze one and I may pick up a scale version someday.

Yours is a great looking model and I like the opening four doors and that classic tear deck with the louvers.

Tomlinson Run Railroad

Thanks for the complement Tom. It’s a Franklin mint bet that Bronze one looked good.

@lee drennen posted:

Thanks for the complement Paul. It’s a old Revell Kenworth model that I put some Don Mills Wheels and Tires on. Where did you grow up at? I love the East Coast I tried to model my layout like the places I used to see when I hauled freight back East.

Lee, not far from Boston...more old brick buildings along the tracks and roads that you can count...but many torn down now. Thankfully, many have been saved and converted into living spaces.  I believe the young up-and-comers call them "loft" apartments or condos

Great cars and trucks everyone! I haven't posted anything in a week or so cause I didn't do anything lately. The CEO has had other plans for me, but today I get to go to the train room. I may just run trains and watch NASCAR!

Joe, wonderful job on the Bel-Air!

Ted, nice work for a one good eye guy! Really it looks great!

Paul, Chevy would have got people in, but the Brunet will get more men then women that is for sure! LOL

Lee, Love your car and trucks on your layout!

Thought I would share this travel trailer that caught my eye in Walmart. It is 1:64; but I think it can pass as a small trailer in "O" scale. Maybe even a pop-up roof could be added. Overall box length is 10', overall height is 6'6" (in 1:48). Under $8.00 with the car.

@JDFonz posted:

Ted, I think you did a great job. You really took it to the next level with the glass and interior. I didn’t try that until like car 12. Besides that, jumping into two tone on your 1st car. So what did you do with the base? Seal it with lacquer, or repaint in black? As you know, I usually sand mine and seal it to protect the patina.

very interesting on the wheels too. I never tried two colors, really brings out the “dog dish” style of the covers. I may have to give that a try.

Joel

Thanks very much Joel'.. The most difficult part is finding the correct thickness of plastic for the windows, and installing them... I just finished up the Studebaker.  It took me over two hours to get the windows in, and they are not perfect...  It is great fun bringing these cars back to life.  And you wonder what is the history.  Did they belong to kid in Great Britain,, at one time, and found their way to the US'... Etc. Etc.........

Your thumb tack' solution doe a steering wheel worked out very well..... You'll se it i the Studebaker'... WHen I post it'...🚗😉 

Lee, the PFE, and the REA rigs are outstanding.  Some of my favorites'... Nice work as usual'...

That sounds good Ted, looking forward to seeing that Studie!

one of these days I’ll have to pick up a new old one and restore, I’ve just been really busy with some woodworking lately.

Joel

      Here we go with the 2nd Dinky restore'..🤓

A 1952 Studebaker Land Crusier;

Before restoration:

After restoration:

A message to buyers:  Please keep in mind, even though these vehicles are restored, they are still a used car.  Some imperfections are impossible to rectify.  Thanks for looking..  😃

Next one up is a 50s chevy panel truck.  Originally a polished brass " Hersey's truck.  Soon to be a (REA) Railroad Express Agency, small freight delivery vehicle'...

😄 A big thank you goes out to,  JDFonz' for introducing me to this aspect of the 1/43 Diecast Car hobby'... It's great fun'.... 

Ok Ted your really pulling me to those Dinky cars JD is guilty as well more than you he actually started this and I’m glad he did. I think they would look good on a Traditional layout with some Tootsietoy  Trucks. Or do you think they might be too big. Great restoration on the Studebaker. Keep those restorations coming

Great work once again Ted!  You're accumulating a real nice collection of "Dinkys!"  I can see why putting the windows in is such a tedious job...you're gifted with patience, as well as skill to bring these cars back to life...

Ted, wonderful work! It's really nice to see you bringing these cars back to life! Heck one day you will be like Paul and have to many and have to think about selling them off to make room for new project cars!

Ahah! Ted, you are now “hooked”.......looking forward to your new cars!

Ted, I enjoy your work.  I remember playing with Dinky Toys...mostly the military models back when I could actually sit on the floor for hours. The fit nicely with our layouts....now you've got me thinking about snatching a few...thanks, I think.

Ted nice work on the restoration projects.  Looking forward to seeing the REA delivery van completed.  Hope the recovery from cataracts continues with no further issues.

Lee nice pics of some really great vehicles.  Love the Corvair.  Your models look as good as die cast.

Thank you'.. Coach Joe; Toledo Ed; Mike G; Paul; Randy H; Lee D; and Joel, who started this whole thing'.  I really appreciate the acknowledgement and all of your positive comments on these restores'..

Lee, actually these cars are closer to 1/48 scale.  They are quite smaller than their 1/43 cousins.  When photographed, they look larger than in real life....  So, they will fit nicely on any O Gauge Layout'...

This goes to Ed', and anyone that loves cars from the golden days of  Detroit.  I think that is part of the fascination of restoring Dinky and Corgi cars.  It's similar to building your railroads.  One thing leads to another'. Scenery, structures, roads, businesses, and that leads to little people..etc. etc.

I would recommend giving it a try.  Ebay has the best selection of both brands.  Just take the time to search through the pages for the best prices and shipping.  Stay away from Europe as the prices are ridiculous.  Every car and truck lover should try at least one restore or even just a new paint job.....

Thanks again for all your support'...😉

A Restored 1950 Chevy panel truck, redesigned into a REA Delivery vehicle.

Ogilvy & Mather, 1948 famous  Advertising Agency,  holds a photo shoot for the 1948 Ford F-100 and also shoots the 50 Chevy for the REA's advertising campaign.

Some additional vehicles are used to highlight the model'..from, Elite Model Management, for possible future use in ads for Studebaker, and Ford....

                "Have you driven a Ford lately"

                                                           😁

Nice collection starting there Ted!  Looking good.

1/43 Brill trolley bus produced many years back. Resin model built in Russia.

I really like the detail and price of the IXO 1/43 trucks this is a IH cabover and a AMT trailer I painted to match and added the Woodward's decals.

Wood block with plastic half rounds for ribs.  Wood dowels for tires. John

Great photos everyone and some really wonderful auto for sure! I hope to one day have a collection like some of yours but it takes time!

So now a couple technical questions.

1) How to you get the bottom off some of the Dinky cars? Do you just drill out the rivet? Then what size rivet do you use when putting it back together?

2) How do you get the wheels off the axels ? I see there is a little mushroom at the end of the axel.

3) and last but not least, do the tires come off the wheels?

I am asking cause I got my first rehab auto and what to get started when I understand more as I dont want to wreck it. I will post photos when I am done!

@Quarter Gauger 48 posted:

A Restored 1950 Chevy panel truck, redesigned into a REA Delivery vehicle.

Ogilvy & Mather, 1948 famous  Advertising Agency,  holds a photo shoot for the 1948 Ford F-100 and also shoots the 50 Chevy for the REA's advertising campaign.

Some additional vehicles are used to highlight the model'..from, Elite Model Management, for possible future use in ads for Studebaker, and Ford....

                "Have you driven a Ford lately"

                                                           😁

The most unique figures, trucks and story ever.

Congrats.

Great figures, trucks and ideas.

@kj356 posted:

I really like the detail and price of the IXO 1/43 trucks this is a IH cabover and a AMT trailer I painted to match and added the Woodward's decals.

Yes I agree lots of details for a great price on these IXO trucks. Nice job on it. I have one i repainted and filled the hole in the cab I’ll be using on a farm diorama. I might post my progress on it.

@rattler21 posted:

Wood block with plastic half rounds for ribs.  Wood dowels for tires. John

John. Thanks for posting these are the kinda trailers I like to build.

@rattler21 posted:

Wood block with plastic half rounds for ribs.  Wood dowels for tires. John

Nice job John.  Are you done with the build or do you have plans to paint and decal the trailer?

@third rail posted:

Nice job John.  Are you done with the build or do you have plans to paint and decal the trailer?

Bill,  I'm done.  I tried REA square on point signs on a piece of thin plastic and didn't like it.  Its by our REA transfer building with an Athearn Branch semi tractor pulling it.   Direct message to follow.  John

The SS 396 is anxious to cross...!

@Quarter Gauger 48 posted:

A Restored 1950 Chevy panel truck, redesigned into a REA Delivery vehicle.

Ogilvy & Mather, 1948 famous  Advertising Agency,  holds a photo shoot for the 1948 Ford F-100 and also shoots the 50 Chevy for the REA's advertising campaign.

Some additional vehicles are used to highlight the model'..from, Elite Model Management, for possible future use in ads for Studebaker, and Ford....

                "Have you driven a Ford lately"

                                                           😁

Ted, incredible work on the Dinky's...colors are vibrant!  The printing on the RAILWAY EXPRESS van is right on the money!  Let's just say, the detail in the entire scene is top-notch  The red wheel rims on the Ford pick-up contrast perfectly with the black body color of the truck and the outfit of the promotional attendant

@mike g. posted:

Great photos everyone and some really wonderful auto for sure! I hope to one day have a collection like some of yours but it takes time!

So now a couple technical questions.

1) How to you get the bottom off some of the Dinky cars? Do you just drill out the rivet? Then what size rivet do you use when putting it back together?

2) How do you get the wheels off the axels ? I see there is a little mushroom at the end of the axel.

3) and last but not least, do the tires come off the wheels?

I am asking cause I got my first rehab auto and what to get started when I understand more as I dont want to wreck it. I will post photos when I am done!

Mike, Good questions.  I had the same ones when I started'.. Restoring.

Joel, JDFonz, shared the secrets he employees.

The easiest way to remove the rivets is by drilling them out.  I found using a bit a little larger than the rivet works best.  DOn't worry about putting them back .  I use metal glue to the frame and the brace areas on the rocker panels.

I don't recommend taking the wheels off .  The tires do come off, and you can buy new tires on Ebay.  I'll email you the size, I don't recall at the moment.  They are cheap, 12 for $10 bucks.

Post a picture of  the car in its present condition,  give me a better idea of what will be required... 😁  Good luck and above all have fun'............

Thank Ted for all the information! I was going to wait till it was done but since you asked here it is. A nice old fire engine!

Any advice would be great and more then welcome!

Hi Mike,

yes Teds got it right, I usually drill out the center of the river first so I can tap a 5-40 screw in to the post. Then I drill the head off, just a little bigger than the rivet.

i don’t take the wheels off the axle unless absolutely needed. Check back a few pages on this thread, I made new axles from nails. The tires do come off, I usually replace them because the rubber is hard from age. I always strip the paint, prime with white or grey, then apply top coat. I usually add gloss coat over that to prevent scratches. I’m working on a Plymouth wagon right now. I’ll get some pics up soon.

Joel

Suppose to say rivet, not River.  #$&@ spellcheck!

@Capetrainman posted:

The SS 396 is anxious to cross...!

Paul. I like that yellow wagon

@JDFonz posted:

Suppose to say rivet, not River.  #$&@ spellcheck!

Got to luv it JD I mean Love it

@mike g. posted:

Thank Ted for all the information! I was going to wait till it was done but since you asked here it is. A nice old fire engine!

Any advice would be great and more then welcome!

Nice fire truck Mike. Are you going to repaint it?

Mike, my mistake....I use 2/56 tap and screws to replace the rivets. The head I use is a button head, almost comes out the same size as the old rivet head.

@lee drennen posted:

Paul. I like that yellow wagon

Lee, the yellow wagon is a 1957 "Olds 88" Fiesta...I like the GM soft yellows of the '60s and 70's...thanks for the comment...

Mike, I look forward to seeing the finished restoration on that unit..nothing like a bright red, shiny fire engine on the layout!

I am sorry I have not been on lately.

There is a guy on YouTube called. "Marty's Matchbox Makeovers." He shows how to restore older diecast cars and trucks. Even though he mainly deals with Matcbox vehicles. He also does Corgi and Dinky. You can learn a lot from his expertise.

Thanks guys, I was able to get out to the train room this morning and get a little start. Here is what I have so far!

As you can see I am going to need new tires! LOL

Where did you find the female photographer figure ??

Hello everyone, great pictures all.  Love that '52 Studebaker Cruiser these were great cars ... my BF in high school had a '57 Hawk with 3 duces on the V8.  My offering today happened just by chance.  Took the wife to her antique booth and discovered a small flea market in the parking lot.  Found this guy for $2 so couldn't resist.  Its a 1953 Buick Century convertible and unlike my '54 Chevy I posted awhile back this on has the top down!  Carpetrainman, you said you liked the GM soft yellows so this one should please you.

Here she is in a soft cream yellow with tan leather interior.

Here is a shot with the door opened to show more of the interior.  Both doors open as well as the hood, although the engine is not modeled very realistically, just overall chrome.

Here is the front view, I need to find some headlight lenses but its otherwise nearly perfect.  Just look at that bumper, in solid steel on the real car that thing might weigh nearly as much as my Honda!!

Here is a shot showing the full interior.  Take a close look at the dash board.  My recollection is that it is indeed fairly accurate showing the multi function push buttons in the center on each side of the radio grill.

Finally the rear view.

So there is my car of the day.  Not bad for $2 if I say so myself.  Its perfect year for my layout which is sort of in the "steam to diesel" transition period of the late 50's to very early 60's.

Happy weekend everyone, best regards

Don

Don, great pick up at the flea market.

Ted that lady photog could fill for a model if need be.

This is the one that is on my restoration bench right now.A corgi Plymouth Suburban Wagon.

@mike g. posted:

Thanks guys, I was able to get out to the train room this morning and get a little start. Here is what I have so far!

As you can see I am going to need new tires! LOL

Wow Mike, you're off to a great start'..  You'll find these restores all need new rubber'.. A bonus you have is the window insert.  Most come with out it or it is all broken up....  Nice job getting those rivets out'.. They are a pain in the neck.........

@JDFonz posted:

This is the one that is on my restoration bench right now.A corgi Plymouth Suburban Wagon.

Another beauty coming up I see... Is that a 57 Joel?  I had a 59 Belvedere, sedan'.. was a pretty good car'... AR you going for actual colors on this one.. I don't recall too many two tones on those years'...

Dodge and Desoto were big on the two tones in that era'.... Good luck with it'...😁👍

Don, that is a very nice find'... And yes those Buicks were heavy beasts.. But they rode as nice a the caddy of the day'.. my mother had a 56 Roadmaster convertible, snow white, red leather interior, black top... and she had a heavy foot'...😁

Joe, I'll post some photos of the chicks from Model U'... Tomorrow'...

@David Ad posted:

Great figures, trucks and ideas.

Thanks very much Dave'.. Appreciate your fine comments'.. 😉

@mike g. posted:

Thanks guys, I was able to get out to the train room this morning and get a little start. Here is what I have so far!

As you can see I am going to need new tires! LOL

Mike. I think I have some tires I can send you. What’s the tire size?

@JDFonz posted:

This is the one that is on my restoration bench right now.A corgi Plymouth Suburban Wagon.

This one is going to be sweet. I like it JD.

Joel, that looks like the Plymouth wagon Sidney Poitier drove in Lillies of the Field.

Here’s a 1/43 IXO International Emeryville International I’ve been working on. I disassembled it stripped the paint off and filled the holes with Super Glue and Baking Powder mix. Then primed and painted it with International Tractor Red. The trailer I painted years ago and I will be re-painting it also

Joel, great looking find, I am with Ted looks like it's going to be a beauty!

Thanks Ted, the window did crack up in the roof area but I super glued it back together so it wound not break all the way. Yep your right the rivets sucked! LOL

Lee,  The IXO International looks outstanding! I was wondering what the super glue and soda was for. Thanks for explaining that one for us new folks here! LOL So now a silly question before I go out to the train room, How do I tell the tire size? Is it printed on the side like real tires?

Wow, Lee, that came out beautiful.. That is an example of an excellent restore job'... Nice work as usual from you... There is also something about those 'cabovers' that's appealing'...

@mike g. posted:

Joel, great looking find, I am with Ted looks like it's going to be a beauty!

Thanks Ted, the window did crack up in the roof area but I super glued it back together so it wound not break all the way. Yep your right the rivets sucked! LOL

Lee,  The IXO International looks outstanding! I was wondering what the super glue and soda was for. Thanks for explaining that one for us new folks here! LOL So now a silly question before I go out to the train room, How do I tell the tire size? Is it printed on the side like real tires?

Thanks for the complement Mike. Mike just measured the inter “The Hole”Diameter of the tires in inches for me I think I have some I’ll give you

Thanks for the complement Ted. Here’s a pic of my dad’s truck he drove I’m building this after this was taken in 1964 that’s my older brother on the truck

@lee drennen posted:

Thanks for the complement Ted. Here’s a pic of my dad’s truck he drove I’m building this after this was taken in 1964 that’s my older brother on the truck

You are welcome""".  1964, I was 12, seems like yesterday''..  Your model is a dead ringer for the real thing'... That is great a photo'....

@lee drennen posted:

Thanks for the complement Ted. Here’s a pic of my dad’s truck he drove I’m building this after this was taken in 1964 that’s my older brother on the truck

Lee, great restoration "re-do" on the cab above...looks like the real thing...being your dad's truck right above, you must be the little blond guy up on the cab??

All you guys, coach, Lee, Ted, Joe are putting me to shame with the great restoration work you do...I'm hoping when more of my layout is complete, I'll give the restoration challenge a try 

Ted, keep those "Model U's" comin'...great detail work on those, and nothing like a 50's Roadmaster convertible

Mike, here's the tires:

12 DINKY TOYS new black rubber round TREAD TIRES ----15mm

Check and make sure the fire engine tires are the same size. 

They have every size.  The 15MM fits both Corgi, and Dinky.

Ted,   Not sure what year that Plymouth is as I was never a big Plymouth guy. Had to pick this one up though because I like the idea of a vintage wagon. And yes, I think I am going to try a two tone paint again on this one.

Mike, sometimes the dinky trucks have 17 mm tires. Use a caliper and measure one of the leftovers that you have.

Good activity on this thread this weekend...enjoying seeing the restoration skills posted above...

@Don McErlean posted:

Hello everyone, great pictures all.  Love that '52 Studebaker Cruiser these were great cars ... my BF in high school had a '57 Hawk with 3 duces on the V8.  My offering today happened just by chance.  Took the wife to her antique booth and discovered a small flea market in the parking lot.  Found this guy for $2 so couldn't resist.  Its a 1953 Buick Century convertible and unlike my '54 Chevy I posted awhile back this on has the top down!  Carpetrainman, you said you liked the GM soft yellows so this one should please you.

Here she is in a soft cream yellow with tan leather interior.

Here is a shot with the door opened to show more of the interior.  Both doors open as well as the hood, although the engine is not modeled very realistically, just overall chrome.

Here is the front view, I need to find some headlight lenses but its otherwise nearly perfect.  Just look at that bumper, in solid steel on the real car that thing might weigh nearly as much as my Honda!!

Here is a shot showing the full interior.  Take a close look at the dash board.  My recollection is that it is indeed fairly accurate showing the multi function push buttons in the center on each side of the radio grill.

Finally the rear view.

So there is my car of the day.  Not bad for $2 if I say so myself.  Its perfect year for my layout which is sort of in the "steam to diesel" transition period of the late 50's to very early 60's.

Happy weekend everyone, best regards

Don

Don, you're right about the car and the color....GM's finest hour  Appealing color combo with the tan interior...curious to know what brand diecast is the Buick posted?

@lee drennen posted:

Thanks for the complement Mike. Mike just measured the inter “The Hole”Diameter of the tires in inches for me I think I have some I’ll give you

Hi Lee, the best I can tell it inter hole is 5/16th of an inch.  I Just had a little time to check, I hope to get back out to the train room in a little bit as the CEO doesn't care for NASCAR and I can watch it and work on my fire engine.

It's very cool you have the photo of your dads truck with your big brother! Back in 1964 before July I was inside after July I was t the most 6 months LOL

Joel, I am guessing the outside! LOL

@rattler21 posted:

Lee,  Is the White COE Road Commander (Road Commode) available in 1:43-1:50?  John

Yes John it’s made by Alan Models and it’s pricey. Alan Models has been out of business for a while. Try Buffalo Road imports they might have it

@JDFonz posted:

Ted,   Not sure what year that Plymouth is as I was never a big Plymouth guy. Had to pick this one up though because I like the idea of a vintage wagon. And yes, I think I am going to try a two tone paint again on this one.

Mike, sometimes the dinky trucks have 17 mm tires. Use a caliper and measure one of the leftovers that you have.

Looks like a 1957-58 always like these Plymouth’s

@Capetrainman posted:

Good activity on this thread this weekend...enjoying seeing the restoration skills posted above...

Paul. Great pic as always the light reflection off that 57 Ford looks very convincing as a night Scene

@Capetrainman posted:

Lee, great restoration "re-do" on the cab above...looks like the real thing...being your dad's truck right above, you must be the little blond guy up on the cab??

All you guys, coach, Lee, Ted, Joe are putting me to shame with the great restoration work you do...I'm hoping when more of my layout is complete, I'll give the restoration challenge a try

Ted, keep those "Model U's" comin'...great detail work on those, and nothing like a 50's Roadmaster convertible

Thanks for the complement Paul. That punk blonde kid is my brother I didn’t come along till 4 years later. He’s really not a punk now he’s my best friend we’re really close.

For Coach Joe'... Model U figures'..

My favorite> the Secretary'...😁

All the "Model U' figures require painting'...

Here’s some that are Expected from IXO  Guy’s Here’s some IXO Trucks available NOW from one of our OGR. Sponsors Diecast Direct. I would like to post updates on available vehicles here monthly if the Mods. Don’t care but only from our sponsors.

Carpetrainman / Paul :  There is no brand name per se on the car.  Underneath on the black plastic frame is embossed a logo of sorts, showing a large wide "S" with horizontal lines flowing from the left side to give the appearance of the letter moving fast.  The id also shows what I expect is the manufacturers model number... SS 5727 and of course..."Made in China". Since I did not get a box, that is all the information I have.

Don

Some more Expected releases

Lee, I wonder what happened to the Diamond Reo trucks'..???

ok guys here is goes, MM/IN/ and Fractions! LOL

so the tire size is as fallows:

Inside                         Outside

8.90mm                    20.80mm

0.332in                     0.8200in

5/16th                    107/128

I this all makes sense!

Plus what is the best way to polish an old window to try and make it look new again?

Ok Mike,

on the bay search for dinky fire truck 955 tires. You should get some 20mm tires that come up. If that isn’t good, just search 20 mm dinky tires and you will have your choice.

my windshield trick goes like this. I rub polishing compound on the windscreen with my fingers. Then make sure you have it all wiped off. Then dip the windscreen in pledge clear floor polish, which I use, or future floor polish. I set it on a paper towel and let it dry overnight. You’ll have new glass.

if you want to see the results, go back to page 54 of this thread and check out the before and after of the ambulance I restored.

Joel

Hi Joel, thank you for the information and i will check out page 54. I found 20mm tires, just waiting to hear from Lee.

You bet Mike, if you go back and look at my previous restos, you’ll see how well that glass trick works!

@mike g. posted:

Hi Joel, thank you for the information and i will check out page 54. I found 20mm tires, just waiting to hear from Lee.

Sorry Mike I got tied up with some honey do’s I check my tires there Matchbox Superkings and there pretty wore. I would fined some nice new ones.

Thanks for looking Lee, i found some on the Bay.

Joel, it went back and looked at your Ambulance and it looks great!

@Quarter Gauger 48 posted:

Lee, I wonder what happened to the Diamond Reo trucks'..???

Ted the discontinued it years ago. Once in awhile you can find one on the bay

@mike g. posted:

Thanks for looking Lee, i found some on the Bay.

Joel, it went back and looked at your Ambulance and it looks great!

Good sorry I couldn’t help

@rattler21 posted:

An Internet search will give you a lot of information for the period between the merge and closing.  Joh

That's exactly what I did, right after I posted.  Lots of information.  I should have asked Lee, if he ever sees any Diamond Reos'.  The last ones I recall was back in the early 70s at our public works dept.  Quite a fleet of all Diamond Reos'... I always like them for some unknown reason'... Maybe the name..................

Here are 2 cars that I got in Italy.

The Ferrari is by Brumm

The Mercedes with Rommel is by Rio

Both cars are 1/43

Construction has started on the New Turkey Branch Lionel Traditional layout in the House.

@Quarter Gauger 48 posted:

That's exactly what I did, right after I posted.  Lots of information.  I should have asked Lee, if he ever sees any Diamond Reos'.  The last ones I recall was back in the early 70s at our public works dept.  Quite a fleet of all Diamond Reos'... I always like them for some unknown reason'... Maybe the name..................

Ted I once owned a 1968 114 the first year when Diamond T And Reo merged. I’ll find a pic of it for you.

Thanks Mike, that is a good illustration showing how well the windscreen renewal works out..

@mikey very very nice, quality diecast you have there. I have a Rio 770k similar to yours. The Brumm Ferrari is exquisite as well. Awesome stuff

I’ve been wanting to share some of these for awhile. However, I was on a “hot streak” in terms of vehicles  ive picked up so wanted to share all at once, but then health issues also precluded me from posting. There’s still some more to share but have yet to take pictures. Sorry some of these are fuzzy- they were taken awhile ago Nd didn’t properly download back on to my phone

Leading off- a 1/43 1998 United Nations Military Police Land Rover Defender 90 with Italian Flags  by Grani & Partners(they have an affiliation with Deagostoni, apparently). It’s really tough finding United Nations vehicles that are in North America so I was very happy to land this one!

I recently stopped by a Dollar General and found quite a few 1/43 BBurago “Street Fire” cars(I’ve shared the Jaguar and Mustang already, I believe). Even if they weren’t only $3 a pop- these are pretty nice cars. Here are my two most recent buys from there- a nice black with silver Audi R8.

And a Red 2017 Corvette

From ebay- Corgi Classics Bedford van with Civillian Auxillary fire services(CAS) markings. The CAS was established in the U.K. post-WWII to aid emergency services in the event of nuclear attack

From my inherited collection- Matchbox Superkings camper and a Dinky Toys Aston Martin.

This Dinky Toys Hudson Sedan, from my inherited collection, in addition to the above Aston Martin & some other Dinky Toys, has kind of sent me on a Dinky Toys binge lol. Simple and two-toned, but there’s just something about it that I really love.

Finally have incorporated the remaining 2 vehicles from my Corgi 50th anniversary Battle of Britain set on to my layout.

Morris Minor RAF Van arrives at UN checkpoint

RAF Bedford coach dropping off troops at the “barracks”(a Hafner passenger station)

hopefully more to come later today!

WOW Steve that is quite the collection! I really like the modern stuff as that what is I model on my layout. But you sure can't knock the older stuff either! There both sharp looking!

Well guys before I called it a day yesterday I was able to get the body and all the parts cleaned for me restore. Now I have  to wash everything and then I might just bake them to dry them before painting. just to speed things up. LOL

I got up this morning and ordered tires, they say they should be here next Monday!

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Mikey. That Mercedes Roadster is sweet.

Steve. You have a lot of nice vehicles in that picture line up.

Mike. That is very a very clean casting you did a great job on it I hope this is not your last restoration for your layout.

Wow, Mike.  So shiny!  Excellent job cleaning up that fire truck.

@lee drennen posted:

Mikey. That Mercedes Roadster is sweet.

Steve. You have a lot of nice vehicles in that picture line up.

Mike. That is very a very clean casting you did a great job on it I hope this is not your last restoration for your layout.

Thanks Lee, we will see how the reinstall of everything goes. It could be my first and last LOL but I doubt it.

@TomlinsonRunRR posted:

Wow, Mike.  So shiny!  Excellent job cleaning up that fire truck.

Thanks, I hope it goes back looking nice. some times I have a bad reaction with the same brand primer and paint. I might wait till we go to town and see if I can find some testors paint.

Piggyback’s are starting to arrive at the Turkey Branch Layout. This is a old Toosietoy International R-160 Cabover with Don Mills wheels that  I Custom painted and decaled. The trailer is a Lionel O27 trailer that I also Custom painted and decaled with Revell 1/48 Tanker wheels.

@lee drennen posted:

Piggyback’s are starting to arrive at the Turkey Branch Layout. This is a old Toosietoy International R-160 Cabover with Don Mills wheels that  I Custom painted and decaled. The trailer is a Lionel O27 trailer that I also Custom painted and decaled with Revell 1/48 Tanker wheels.

Looks good Lee, But I think your going to need a lot more! Maybe even some lowboys to carry the dozer for all the dirt work! LOL

Mike, the fire truck is looking good. Looks like you have fallen down the dinky rabbit hole! I’ve been there since the pandemic started. I must be on my 40th restoration by now. I just love how these toys have held up so well, and the fact you can get replacement parts. The restorations are almost a hobby in itself

@JDFonz posted:

Mike, the fire truck is looking good. Looks like you have fallen down the dinky rabbit hole! I’ve been there since the pandemic started. I must be on my 40th restoration by now. I just love how these toys have held up so well, and the fact you can get replacement parts. The restorations are almost a hobby in itself

Joel, one thing I have to admire is the paint that is still on the cars really doesn't want to come off! I fallowed the instruction for my paint remover and had to apply it 3 times! LOL

One of the wheels is part broken, but I don't thing I want to take it apart as it still holds a tire on it. I will take a photo later and post it here for any ones thoughts!

@mike g. And @lee drennen thank you for the compliments- but I must say, I wish I had the customization & restoration skills that you both have!

Mike- I happen to have that Dinky Fire engine and it’s in nice shape- but the way your going with yours, you’re gonna blow the original outta the water!

Lee- absolutely love the work you did with that o-27 Trailer And the tootie cab- paint is exquisite! The trailer sits very prototypically as well.

I’be dabbled in some rolling stock restoration and am currently in the midst of my first vehicle repaint/restoration. It first, What I will say I am decent at is model soldiers. Don’t mean to veer off course, but I am proud of my work on these and they compliment my military vehicles well:

Took this confederate soldier:

Middle French foreign legion as prototype

to create:

Just need to fix the middle portion of the waist- it should be tan.

In terms of vehicles, I’m looking to convert this late model tootsie into a U.N. Vehicle. It was originally purple and really, best word I can think of is “funkadelic”:

Again- much admiration for the skills you guys have! Hopefully, with practice, I can get to a level that’s at least decent.

As I said- there were some items I picked up that I didn’t get a chance to post before and I’d also like to show some of the fuzzy pictures more clearly, I’ll start with the former:

Maisto 1/43 1998 Mercedes S500. always loved this model of the S-class, the prototype was much maligned(was made during the Daimler Chrysler years). Regardless, I’m very impressed with this model by Maisto- exterior is splendid and there is decent interior detail as well.

This next one I really love(also a big Land Rover fan) and at just over 10cm it’s length matches the prototype at 1/43 scale. Dinky Toys # 604; Land Rover 109 series 2a Explosive Disposal Unit.

Also there’s some History behind this one- produced for only 2 years(76-77) apparently not a big seller due to it coinciding with a violent period of The Troubles in Northern Ireland. It’s missing The orange paper up front that the back has  and  the plastic robot bomb disposal unit. That said, I must say I feel I got this for a steal

And the back pop’s off:

Here’s a nice complimentary piece I’ve had since I was a kid. It’s undersized but neat nonetheless. Dinky toys #670 armoured car:

Finally took this one out of the package(from Pop’s Collection)Dinky Collection by Matchbox 1958 Studebaker Golden Hawk. Adjacent is the BBurago “hot streets” Audi R8 shown much clearer:

Another clearer shot with one I forgot to post previously. RAF Ford Zephyer MK2(the 3rd from the Corgi Battle of Britain 50th anniversary set). Next to that is the Corgi Classics Bedford CAS Fire auxillary services personnel carrier and on the right is the RAF Bedford coach.

(On another note-This part of my layout is a mess- it’s undergoing some changes now that I have my AIu and Turnouts working correctly)

the BBurago “Hot Streets” 2017 Corvette Stingray:

And finally- I’m posting this to solicit some help- could anyone tell me where I could find tires for this 623 Dinky Army Wagon?

Actually, is there a source for tires for this era of diecast in general?I also have 3 matchbox superkings and a Dinky Super Toys that need tires as well. Would love to get some tires on this Horsevan, too. But the army wagon would be my priority:

Any help would be greatly apprecIated!

@mike g. posted:

Joel, one thing I have to admire is the paint that is still on the cars really doesn't want to come off! I fallowed the instruction for my paint remover and had to apply it 3 times! LOL

One of the wheels is part broken, but I don't thing I want to take it apart as it still holds a tire on it. I will take a photo later and post it here for any ones thoughts!

Mike'.. Excellent job removing the paint.  And you are correct'.. I have a Corgi Chevy that I have soaked three times in paint remover, and still has paint on it that just won't come off.  What brand paint remover did you use?   It came out good'...

You'll find that krylon or Rustoleum plain primer gray, works best.  I also use the Krylon sprays for the final coates. 

I think if you use a good brand crazy glue, you can repair the broken wheel.

You are doing a heck of a job'... I don't think this will be your last restore'.

I cant wait to see your fire engine when finished'... 😁

Steve, go back 2 pages on this thread' you'll see a post as to where get the tires on the Bay'.... I posted it for Mike.  I'm at work now, and  the info is on my other machine... you'll see it as there is a picture of the tires...

@Quarter Gauger 48 Thanks a bunch!  Much appreciated!!

@StevefromPA posted:

@Quarter Gauger 48 Thanks a bunch!  Much appreciated!!

Make sure you measure the wheels first so you get the right size tire.  Usually the truck tires are a bit larger than the 15MM for the cars.

Perhaps, JDFonz, can chime in as he has the most experience with the Corgi, and Dinky vehicles....