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Post by tangmere on May 17, 2015 11:33:23 GMT -5
Okay, me... It's a bit daunting to me as a first timer on where to start. I know most people will gravitate to what they like car-wise but maybe it'd be easier to start elsewhere and get the feel of maybe not building something so complicated? What I was thinking was that if somebody could put together a list of whats needed for your 1st car and links with where to buy everything from. I realise that bits come from everywhere but knowing what motor suits what chassis and which rims, inserts and what tires are required would help the rookie (again, me...). Also, are soldering skill required? Do you need a chassis jig? And I'm sure I've forgotten some other pertinent questions. I've got a Ferrari 312 from Mel Ault on the way and he's been very, very helpful with what ancillary bits I'll need. I've also ordered the Surtees Ferrari 158 and two PP chassis (small and medium) from Pendlslot. Yeah, I'm a bit of an impulse buyer and now I wondering, did I go in the right direction for a rookie? Thanks for listening, gents.
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Post by f143 on May 17, 2015 20:35:12 GMT -5
That all sounds as though you are on the right track to me, however I am more of a beginner than an advanced builder. You cant go wrong with the chassis you have ordered and the best way to learn is by getting on with a build, see Embers F1 Brabham build thread for her experience, very helpful. I'm sure you will be pleased with your efforts by the end of your first try, when it runs round a track. Regards Nigel
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Post by Chris Wright on May 17, 2015 22:43:30 GMT -5
The Penelope Pitlane Ferrari 158 and chassis is a good first choice, built carefully and straight it makes a reasonably competitive car. Don't get carried away with the motor, get a mild performance unit.
You don't need a jig or soldering skills for the chassis, just follow the directions.
Chris
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Post by Andrew Rowland on May 18, 2015 2:31:47 GMT -5
My tip would be to read a lot before starting to build. You will be confused at first but then full of ideas and then slowly narrow it down to one or two threads reflecting the parts you've bought. Go to SFI scratchbuild section and use the search tool to go back 10 years or more to find even more stuff than this forum has on it! Very few people do that but it is essential in my opinion. Cheers and good luck Andi
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Post by David Lawson on May 18, 2015 3:12:57 GMT -5
As Andi says you can't beat reading the forum to get all the information you will ever need.
For the most specific information on building F1 slot cars read all the Gpd proxy series threads in the Upcoming Proxy section you will find pictures and specifications of almost every classic F1 car.
David
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Post by David Mitcham on May 18, 2015 15:48:45 GMT -5
I agree with all of the above. One thing I always do when starting a project is to get as many photographs of the real car as possible and if there's one available a scale drawing of the car (this link will take you to a lot of plans and drawings, including for your two Ferraris www.vsrnonline.com/mags/mc/MC_Plans.html - some are better than others! ) - its surprising what a Google search will throw up. Then decide whether you are going to model a car from a particular race or a generalised version. If the former then you will need to study the body of the model and determine whether it needs to be modified - the thing with 60's F1 cars is they were a little different every time they raced, its the same today but in the 60's the modifications tended to be more obvious. Having written the above, as a beginner you probably don't want too get hung up on the detail but a bit of research will help you to decide on what you're going to do. Regards David
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Post by Ember on May 22, 2015 0:36:57 GMT -5
I can assure you these gentlemen are amongst the most knowledgeable and helpful around. I have only recently jumped off safety of the ledge and into the chasm of building these beautiful little cars myself. The most valuable things you can have are patience (something I sadly lack at times) and the willingness to give it a go. There is absolutely nothing more exciting than that first instant when you see your creation moving around the track under its own steam. You cant go wrong with the chassis you have ordered and the best way to learn is by getting on with a build, see Embers F1 Brabham build thread for her experience, very helpful. I think Nigel may be referring to Jack Brabham's Lotus 24 that was my first attempt. The body is from a Penelope Pitlane kit with a scratch built chassis adapted from a David Lawson design. The thread is here if you want to look. It contains a lot if mistakes and trial and error, but that's what learning is all about. As far as motors go, the SRP 16k slim can is very good. Unlike many other motor of the same style, it has good braking abilities. I'm sure the more experienced lads will have their personal favourites. Essentially you can get everything you need from Pendles or you can shop around. I used wheels from RS Slot Racing (UK) and gears from Ranch Design (US). Soldering skill is something that will improve with doing. Again, all you really need is a willingness to try. And a soldering iron. And some acid flux (not to be confused with acid reflux) As far as a jig goes, I'm not sure what others use. I am told it is not an essential thing, but I don't have 3 pairs of hands to hold things and solder at the same time. I went down the cheap road and purchased a ceramic honeycomb tile often used as a jeweller's jig. It seemed like a good way to begin. Google is your friend. You'll probably find one for much less than I had to pay down here. Enjoy the adventure. It's frustrating and satisfying again and again. cheers Lynne
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