| Previously I have done a lot of conversions of Ideal TCR,MatchBox & PowerPassers to G+ or 440X-2. Since I have done just about every one I decided to look for a new challenge. That was resin casting. Originaly I did 1 piece molds using the inefficent slosh method but then graduated to 2-piece that is quicker & better. So far I have essentially done copies of the Lionel MB 300SL coupe plus my own convertible version using a cannibilised interior & windshield from a JL '59 vette as part of my prototype. The others were essentially copies of the Atlas '63 Vette (coupe` & Convertible) , Atlas T-Bird convertible, Marx T-bird coupe` & M-B 300 SL plus copies of Tyco side pipes & scoops, Bachmann Toyota 2000 GT bumpers & mirrors for customising and/or repair. I have graduated to doing some designs of my own that are essentially my original versions of The Thunderjet 500 Willys Gasser & the Lionel Mercedes-Benz 300SL coupe` (this will be covered in another article). Having seen other versions of the Willys Gasser ( convertible, Pickup, panel van, & Phil Pignon's wonderfull '37 Dirt modified track car & full Blown Willys, I decided that it was time for a Willys Gasser Surf Woody. First I purchased a JL T-jet 500 Willys Gasser & a Hot Wheels '40 Ford Woody. I then hacked both apart & then assembled together my prototype. It was important that as much of the Willys identity be retained as it was not enough just to graft a Willys front end to the Woody body. Every thing was retained as much as possible from the rear fenders to the rear wheely bar, tailights & license plate. I also added surf boards cast of the El Camino. As you can see this came out very well & I will be casting quite a few of these. | |
