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AIM Polikarpov I-16: The Initial Steps


Polikarpov I-16 Type 18/24 Rata (Remastered)
Product #
R15-0403
Manufacturer
Suggested Retail Price
$12.00 USD


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Revision Log
25 June 2007page first published

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miscmini Fezian writes:

After a quick inventory, I looked the models over to see what kind of work I would have ahead of me. I noted the location of the seam lines and pour-spout, as well as other minor irregularities. These are nice castings, and there is very little in the way of seam lines. I make note of a small hole that I'll deal with later.

Inspecting the models
Inspecting the models

Once my initial inspection is over, I hold the models up to a light so that I can check for air pockets. By back lighting the models, it's possible to find some air bubbles that could be a problem later. I prefer to find them and fill them, rather than having them surprise me later. I didn't note any hidden air pockets in these kits.

Next, I find the balance point on the models. Then I drill a hole at the balance point. In the end, this will be the hole for the miniature's base. I place a toothpick in the hole, to make it easier to handle the model during assembly and painting.

Drilling the hole for the base

At this point, I began removing the seam lines. Depending on the size and location of the seam lines, I either cut them off or scrape them off with the back of the blade on the hobby knife.

Scraping the seam line

To fix the hole in the rudder, I first drill a small hole all the way through the tail. I do this so that I have a nice round hole with which to work. I then find a piece of plastic or resin that will fit the hole, and I glue it into the hole. Once the glue cures, I trim off the parts of the plug that stick out of the tail.

The hole is plugged - now to trim the plug...

I am close to being finished with the initial steps. From here, I take the models to the wash basin. I take along the toothbrush, soap, and sanding sticks. I combine washing the models and wet-sanding, to reduce the number of times I have to wash the models. By wet-sanding the models, I avoid having resin dust all over the workroom. Remember to wear protective gear as noted on the various products, tools, and supplies.