Tamiya 1/12th plastic kits
Discussion
Don't scrub the cars clean but instead run them under warm water, with a little liquid soap, and gently use a flexible, soft brush.
If any decals have been exposed to light, they may well have yellowed. If that's the case, alas, there is nothing you can do to restore them other than to remove and replace. For example, some years ago, I built the Tamiya F1 Mclaren MP/46 in 1/12 scale and the decals included in the kit were the censored version of the cigarette advertiser ones. In other words, they depicted a bar-code instead of 'MARLBORO'.
A quick search on the internet got me the right ones.
With regards to re-attachment of parts, use a scalpel to clean off what dried glue there is on each mating part and restore using plastic cement (for plastic parts) or cyanoacrylate for other materials.
If any decals have been exposed to light, they may well have yellowed. If that's the case, alas, there is nothing you can do to restore them other than to remove and replace. For example, some years ago, I built the Tamiya F1 Mclaren MP/46 in 1/12 scale and the decals included in the kit were the censored version of the cigarette advertiser ones. In other words, they depicted a bar-code instead of 'MARLBORO'.
A quick search on the internet got me the right ones.
With regards to re-attachment of parts, use a scalpel to clean off what dried glue there is on each mating part and restore using plastic cement (for plastic parts) or cyanoacrylate for other materials.
Edited by kenny Chim 4 on Thursday 17th December 00:04
I was once told that yellowing on decal sheets can be removed by standing them in strong sunlight for a few days, preferably behind glass, eg a window. An additional sheet of glass can be placed on top of the sheet to stop it curling up.
I've tried this and it definitely works. Have never tried it with decals already applied to a model but can see no reason why it wouldn't work and you wouldn't even have the curling up problem.
I've tried this and it definitely works. Have never tried it with decals already applied to a model but can see no reason why it wouldn't work and you wouldn't even have the curling up problem.
lewis1 said:
Hi,
I have a few of these models that my dad built when they first came out. After sitting in the loft they are looking a little sorry for themselves and some parts are no longer attached.
After some advice on the best way to restore and clean them up really?
any help appreciated
Lewis
Rather than use running water (which might damage them) I'd put them in a washing up bowl of warm water with a bit of soap solution, and 'dust' them gently with a very soft paintbrush. Remove them, and rinse & brush again in warm water only, then stand them upright on some paper towels to let the water wick away.I have a few of these models that my dad built when they first came out. After sitting in the loft they are looking a little sorry for themselves and some parts are no longer attached.
After some advice on the best way to restore and clean them up really?
any help appreciated
Lewis
This is what I've done a couple of times with my Tamiya 1:20 F1 cars with out any problems.
If you get any deals lifting, you could re-set them with MicroSet/Microsol, followed by a brushed coat of Johnsons Klear to protect them.
i had spare parts from this place - http://www.goldstarstockists.com/tamiyaparts/index...
Edited by philh on Thursday 17th December 15:57
Decals can be saved if the sheet has not been allowed to get damp by coating with Microscale Liquid decal film
available from Hannants 01502 517444. If you need to remove paint use Mr Muscle oven cleaner don't use indoors
just put the parts in a polythene bag, fill with the cleaner ,seal the bag and leave overnight wash off use
an old toothbrush to get into the detail. I am restoring a part built lotus 72d at the moment.
Good Luck Ian
available from Hannants 01502 517444. If you need to remove paint use Mr Muscle oven cleaner don't use indoors
just put the parts in a polythene bag, fill with the cleaner ,seal the bag and leave overnight wash off use
an old toothbrush to get into the detail. I am restoring a part built lotus 72d at the moment.
Good Luck Ian
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