Right On! Replicas

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150120* Stingaree Showcar Dragster 1:25 Scale AMT Model Kit #AMT38664 Review

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

In 1971 AMT created a group of show rod dragster kits that were custom models loosely based on rail type drag cars. They added a customized body and graphics to the dragster and created their own wild-style cars. In 2008 Round 2 under the Auto World name teamed up with Retro Hobby to bring back AMT’s way-out STINGAREE in the Flashback Vintage Model Kit Reissue Series. This wild show rod meets dragster is a 1/25 scale plastic model kit that hasn’t been available since its original release in 1971. They even reproduced the original box and decal art for a real trip to the hobby scene of yesteryear. And it was a LIMITED PRODUCTION run.  

For the Modeler: This review covers the AMT Kit #AMT38664 Stingaree in 1/25 scale. The kit consists of roughly 80 parts molded in White, Chrome, Clear and Vinyl tires. While the kit does not have a skill level on the box the website rates it Skill Level 2 for the moderate builder and it requires glue and paint. This is a direct Re-Release (Re-Pop) of the AMT Stingaree and has not been seen since 1971, although it is a 2008 release it can still be found online and in some local hobby stores. A majority of the kit is chrome and the plating is crisp and bright on my sample. The body is a multiple part unit but can be assembled prior to paint work giving the ability to fill and smooth any assembly lines. The motor is fairly detailed and will lend itself to aftermarket goodies easily. The main frame is solid and straight easing assembly issues. The decals are a Green/Yellow flame or Red/Yellow flame choice. Overall assembly is simple and the instructions are a five step process. Overall dimensions are: Length:10”, Width: 3½”, Height: 2½”  

Covered in this Review:  If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; complete engine construction and detailing; explaining instruction errors; making realistic tires; dashboard detailing; windshield modifications for fit and finish;  front and rear suspension build sequence; chassis installation; removing unwanted copyright script; using “clear” glue for the windows and glass; comparative kit history; working with body putty; identifying and removing mold lines and ejector tabs; decal preparation and application; installing an aftermarket distributor; frame assembly; choosing a seat style version; using parts-box gauges; removing unwanted flash; how to adding wiring to the engine; a firing order schematic; dealing with warped parts; removing unwanted chrome plating; where to use superglue for added strength; how to assemble a multi-piece body; how to use decal setting solutions; working with full sheet carrier decals; are all fully examined in this extensive 17 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

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Click the Buy Now link below to purchase the full Step-by-Step review for $2.95 USD.

Important – You MUST click on the “Return to Right on Replicas, LLC” link after you’ve made your purchase to download your review!

Right On Replicas, LLC ©2015 All rights reserved. *All registered trademarks are the property of their respective brands. Follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations for any product mentioned here.

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150115*
MONKEEMOBILE 1:25 Scale MPC Model Kit #772 Review

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

The Monkeemobile is a modified Pontiac GTO that was designed and built in 1966 by designer Dean Jeffries for a new TV show called “The Monkees”. Jim Wangers from the Promotional Department at Pontiac supplied two base 389 4-barrel 1966 GTO convertibles with automatic-transmissions to be converted into Monkeemobiles. The car features a tilted forward split two-piece windshield, a touring car convertible top, modified rear quarter panels and front fenders, exaggerated tail lamps, set of four bucket seats and an extra third row bench where there was originally a trunk, a rear-mounted parachute and a GTO emblem on the front grille. Jeffries was under contract with Model Products Corporation (MPC) at the time and MPC was in turn given exclusive rights to market a model kit of the Monkeemobile. They would end up selling over 7 million copies of these kits. Two complete cars were constructed for the show. The “TV car” (aka car # 1) followed the Monkees on tour only to be left in Australia in 1968. It later resurfaced in Puerto Rico as a hotel courtesy car painted Pink. The “show car” (aka car #2) was purchased by custom car designer, George Barris. This car would be the most visible during the years. Barris later went on to use and display the car for promotions at many large and small events. In 2006 the car went through a major restoration. Even though it became a 100 point show car, many changes and upgrades were made. In January 2008, Barris, through Barrett-Jackson in Scottsdale, Arizona, auctioned the car for $360,000. It now resides in the hands of a private collector in southeastern Michigan.

 

For the Modeler: This review covers the MPC/Round2 Re-release (Re-Pop) of the Monkeemobile in 1/25 scale. This is Kit #MPC772. While no Skill Level is given this is a Skill Level 2 for Moderate Builders as it requires Glue and Paint.  This kit has seen multiple releases and different box arts. At one time it was even released as “Fonzie’s Dream Ride” to promote the TV series Happy Days. Round2 has re-released this kit with all original parts and it still includes the little logo Key ring. The kit has about 80 parts molded in White, Chrome, Clear and Clear red with Rubber tires and Metal axles. Overall this is a simplistic kit with a fairly well detailed motor, basic suspension, nice interior and correct looking body. Decals are included in a Gold color. There were multiple versions of the Monkees graphic used on the real cars, and these most represent the original style from Car #1 Promo Shots. Although in the actual TV series the car did not have any graphics on it. Overall size is Length: 9”, Width: 3”, Height: 2-1/4”.

 

Covered in this Review:  If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; complete engine construction; fitting the interior tub; car version considerations; how to foil the trim; using a wash to detail the grill; dashboard detailing; interior color scheme; chassis installation; removing unwanted copyright script; making realistic looking tires; using “clear” glue for the windows and glass; comparative kit history; making your own custom license plates; carpeting the interior pan; identifying and removing the A-Pillar post;  front/rear wheel differences; decal preparation and application; how to use decal setting solutions; promo decal considerations; trimming unwanted flash; using floor polish to make perfect windows; are all fully examined in this extensive 15 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

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Click the Buy Now link below to purchase the full Step-by-Step review for $2.95 USD.

Important – You MUST click on the “Return to Right on Replicas, LLC” link after you’ve made your purchase to download your review!

Right On Replicas, LLC ©2015 All rights reserved. *All registered trademarks are the property of their respective brands. Follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations for any product mentioned here.

Right On Replicas, LLC Step-by-Step Review 20150112*
Ferrari Superamerica 1:24 Scale Revell Model Kit #85-2034 Review

Review and Photos by Alan Mann

The history of the Ferrari Superamerica dates back to 1956-1961 when this unique convertible first made it appearance. Like its predecessor the new Ferrari Superamerica is a very unusual convertible. Produced in 2005 as a limited edition of only 559 units this vehicle touts some of the most sophisticated technological feature ever seen on an automobile. The Superamerica is powered by a twelve cylinder 540 hp engine coupled to an optional Formula I transmission with the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.25 seconds. Its specialized transmission can be used in the automatic or manual mode as well as “normal” or “sports” at the driver’s discretion. Likewise its suspension is state of the art and can be adjusted to sporty or comfort at the flick of a switch. However, and without a doubt, the most high-tech feature on the Superamerica has got to be its “electronically controlled color change” convertible top. This unknown feature is a first of its kind ever used on a production automobile. Similar to the idea of eyeglasses that darken to sunlight the “Revocromico” top can be electronically adjusted from clear to almost black at the driver’s command. Overall the car has been designed as “user friendly” and is very easy to drive.

 

For the Modeler: This review covers the Revell kit #2034, a 1/24th scale, Ferrari Superamerica that comes molded in 110 parts that are White, Chrome and Clear with Vinyl tires. Revell rates this at a Skill Level 2 for Moderate builders. Strangely this is the EXACT SAME release as the Germany version but they rate theirs a Skill Level 4 with 114 parts. My sample is dated 2006 Revell Germany and is a Re-Release (Re-Pop) of the model. It has been re-released in both German and American versions and is still available on the market in a few different box art versions. Typical quality by Revell the kit includes a very nicely detailed engine/transmission and rear differential and axle. If desired this easily lends itself to additional detailing for Contest Quality builds. Also the interior is very nicely done. A piece of black screening is provided along with a template of shapes that are required to cover the side vents, the hood intake and the left rear fender intake. The body is multiple parts. Overall the kit is molded crisply with little if any clean up needed. The instruction sheet is equally well done and easy to follow. Overall dimensions are:  Length: 7”, Width: 3”, Height:  2-1/4”.

  

Covered in this Review:  If you want to perfect your build; basic construction; preparing parts for better finishing; alternate assembly sequence suggestions for fit and ease of finishing; complete paint and adhesive selections and applications; test fitting; complete engine construction and detailing; explaining instruction errors; making realistic tires; using white glue for glass parts; dashboard detailing; illustrated gauge and console decal maps; interior color scheme; front and rear suspension build sequence; chassis installation; removing unwanted copyright script; making realistic tires; using “clear” glue for the windows and glass; comparative kit history; making your own custom license plates and floor mats; carpeting to the interior pan; identifying and removing mold lines and ejector tabs; hood hinge modifications; correctly orienting the directional tires; suspension construction and detailing; decal preparation and application; how to use decal setting solutions; how to use the kit’s templates; brake caliper orientation; make 3-D looking springs; using floor polish to make perfect windows; are all fully examined in this extensive 17 page, full-color Step-by-Step review in PDF format.

100% money back guarantee!

Click the Buy Now link below to purchase the full Step-by-Step review for $2.95 USD.

Important – You MUST click on the “Return to Right on Replicas, LLC” link after you’ve made your purchase to download your review!

Right On Replicas, LLC ©2015 All rights reserved. *All registered trademarks are the property of their respective brands. Follow the manufacturer’s safety recommendations for any product mentioned here.