Flatbed Recovery Truck

This is a model of a 1/10th scale flatbed recovery truck by CrossRC. The client's instruction: "Make it a Richard model".

Despite being the first radio controlled vehicle that I build, this should be a fun build because I have an electronics background and I have some  experience building models. So.... let the fun begin! 

 

The final model will be a whopping 778mm x 297mm x 271mm and so I had to clean up my entire bench to make place to work! (Hence having parked my Gullwing for now)

 

Turn. Don't Burn.

It's as easy as 

(click to find out more)

Completed August 2024

Some parts primered.

For starters, I checked that all parts are there. There seemed to be parts missing so I informed the model shop owner. He told me not to worry but to continue with the build. Parts are sometimes put in different packets. Ok, so we'll see, I suppose.  

I am very pleased that these parts were pre-assembled!

The progress of this build will mainly be documented by means of photos - unless I have something significant to point out.  

Only after I had primered the fuel tank did I realise that the straps did not go all the way around. I sanded the errant area, glued some styrene strips in place, and then filed them to look right. 

Following that, I designed and 3D printed the step grates (or whatever they are called), and drilled holes for the bottom step. Then I primered, painted and weathered the tanks. 

Of course I could not resist a dry fit once the wheels had been assembled!

The sound system arrived and I was able to complete the build. Man it sounds good! 

 Completed this build on 3 August 2024.

This build is currently on hold whilst I wait for the client to supply the sound system.

To conceal the winch electronics and wiring, I scratch built a tool box to cover them. I also decided to add the mesh screen to conceal the wiring from the light. It is secured using 0.3mm jeweller's binding wire to make it look as though the owner had personally fitted it.

Due to the smooth finish of the kit plastic, I thought that the seats looked too artificial and decided to cover them with tissue paper, over which I  applied some watered-down cold glue.

This gave a coarser, more realistic finish.

Before the glue had dried, I wrinkled the material in various places to create a worn out, used, look. 

I can never resist a dry fit. (Note: the model is standing on a standard sized pallet!)

Initial prep work for weathering has been completed.

To create variation and unpredictability, I use various techniques including underwater painting, salt chipping, marmite chipping, hairspray, plus a combination of all of these for the initial weathering.

From here on out, I will use oil paint rendering and dotted oils

techniques. Also as pigments, craft paint and other techniques as they take my fancy, at any given time. From here on, the true art begins. .

 Completed this build on 3 August 2024.