RoR Project 0050 – A Nifty Fifty
See the Step-by-Step Project by Doug Cole 
In days gone by – when dealers made a good profit selling new cars they used to hand out models (promos) to the children to entertain them when they were haggling over price with the parents. The dealers would buy a few dozen “coasters†for the showroom floor and stock friction drive models to give away with the purchase of an actual vehicle. These toys had metal bumpers, hard rubber wheels and a tin chassis. With normal play they were practically indestructible! I found a box of coasters in an auction in a variety of conditions including the one you see here. I restored this one to “showroom†condition and I’ll show you how I did it in my Step-by-Step Project.
For the Modeler: This model, by MPC(?), appears to be a 1950 Ford in period green metallic which I chose to restore because of the body damage and missing parts. The plastic used was a thick fibrous amalgam that made body repairs easy – just like the original thick-skinned car. The front end is a massive chromed white metal piece made to take some abuse. In this project body repair, foiling, resin casting, detailing and window repairs are fully examined.Â
Donations Humbly Accepted
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RoR Step-by-Step Review 20111107* – E-3 Sentry AWACS 1/144 Minicraft Kit 14526 Review
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See the Step-by-Step Review by Stephanie and Marty Oberman
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The E-3 Sentry is based on the Boeing 707 jet, converted by the U.S. Air Force for recon use. The “AWACS” version (Airborne Warning and Command Systems) is but one of various versions of this aircraft offered by Minicraft, judging by the fact the modeler is directed to open certain holes in the fuselage to accommodate the appropriate communications and probe pods associated with this particular version.
For the modeler – This awesome looking rendition of the AWACS plane needs some tweaking to stand proud. A little extra weight here, a little extra patience there and vwalla – you’ll have a great looking model of a seldom seen subject. Fit issues, decal placement and version control are all explored in the full Step-by-Step review.
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RoR Step-by-Step Review 20111026* – ’32 Ford 3-Window Coupe Street Rod 1:25 Monogram #85-0887 Review
Click Here to Buy This Kit

See the Step-by-Step Review by Rich Clark
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This model remains popular with hot-rodders of all ages. The model B’s bring endless possibilities with the various V-8 engines and updated suspensions. This Classic Cruiser Series kit features a choice of either a full-fendered street rod body or a high-boy street rod style look. A great looking deuce for today’s generation!!
For the Modeler: This kit leaves you with endless possibilities for custom ideas. Not to take away from what I have said above, for personal choice, I have decided to do a few minor changes to help give this kit a little more character. I have decided to do a tutone paint scheme, wired the engine and substituted some custom wheels. There are also some fit issues that need to be addressed. While I didn’t come across any flash issues, I did find some mold lines along both sides of the trunk area and just below the A-pillars. A little sanding in those areas with 800 grit sandpaper took care of that with ease. The kit also features the 5 spoke wheels, a removable hood to display the Ford 302 engine, soft black wall tires, very crisp and clean chrome plated parts along with decals that offer optional custom graphics of your choosing. I decided to leave out the hood side panels to go with the style I was after for the street rod look
Thanks Everyone,
Rich Clark
Donations Humbly Accepted
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