GHQ metal model construction

Sharper Mar 12, 2014

  1. Sharper

    Sharper New Member

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    I acquired a few GHQ models, road grader, tractor and bull dozer; that are to go on our N scale modular layout. They will be in a prominent location and I need for them to look as good as possible. I would appreciate any guidance regarding construction and painting this type of model. Thanks, Skip
     
  2. Gizmo2011

    Gizmo2011 TrainBoard Member

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    I have built a few of these models and enjoyed every one of them. I used a gel Zap glue (crazy glue) which is a little thicker. Before gluing the parts together do a good clean-up with sand paper. I then glued the parts together, primed the metal, and then painted.

    Have fun!
     
    subwayaz likes this.
  3. Nutz4JohnDeere

    Nutz4JohnDeere New Member

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    i'm assembling the GHQ John Deere Combine 9500. Any assembly suggestions? The printed instructions are okay but lack detail as to where the hand rails are to be installed and the assembly of the front end.
     
    wpsnts likes this.
  4. Burlington Bob

    Burlington Bob TrainBoard Member

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    I've built the Farmall Super M tractor and the grain wagon they sell and waiting to start on the JD combine. The combine is more complex than the other two but if you take your time, wash them in warm soapy water (I use Dawn and an old toothbrush), trim any flash and use a gel type super glue it should go together fairly easily.
     
  5. arbomambo

    arbomambo TrainBoard Member

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    I built a number of these kits when they were first released (and when I was modeling the 'modern' era)...
    it's a simple matter to 'google' John Deere Combine 9500 and review tons of photographs showing placement of details...
    Bruce
     
  6. Eagle2

    Eagle2 Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    For painting, make sure to go with the above suggestions about washing and I would strongly recommend using a primer before diving into colors. Even just something from the general spray paint section (hardware store or aisles) as these tend to do better adhering (especially if you'll be airbrushing)
     
    wpsnts likes this.
  7. kingpeta

    kingpeta TrainBoard Member

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    I did a bull dozer from them a while back. I think I used either Ambroid or Goo for the adhesive. I wasn't having much luck with ACC glues on metal models. For painting, I sprayed it with Rustoleum camouflage flat gray, then brush painted with the colors I wanted. I then applied some weathering powders. Didn't turn out too bad I think. I'm not sure if the crane was a GHQ model or not, but I followed the same process.
    dozer - 1.jpg
     
  8. traingeekboy

    traingeekboy TrainBoard Member

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    You could just go to the GHQ site and send them an email. Greg Scott, owner of GHQ, is quite the N scale modeler. You might even get an email from Greg. :)
     
  9. JMaurer1

    JMaurer1 TrainBoard Member

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    The problem with using 'super' glues (CA) is that the metal parts will expand and contract (especially if on a module) and eventually weaken the CA (that doesn't expand or contract). This same problem happens when attaching metal roofwalks to plastic boxcars. I have used Ambroid and Canopy glue (used in R/C airplanes to attach the plastic windshield to a model), both with success (both remain semi-flexible when dry). Clean with alcohol and prime with primer before painting and done.
     
  10. traingeekboy

    traingeekboy TrainBoard Member

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    I used to make AC cement harder by dusting in some baking soda before it hardened. It worked like a charm and held for years. most of that was done when I was a D&D kid in the 70's for big lead monster models. ;)
     

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