Thunderbird 2

[Isaac]

I decided to look at some of the models that Gary Pilsworth uploaded to our Download section and specifically the Thunderbird 2 transporter from the old TV series of the 1960's Sci-Fi series where they used puppets/marionettes and interesting vehicles to "save the Earth" from bad dudes.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfIAKj3Gl1E

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEDcZBGZtrs


The kit was downloaded here: http://www.papermodelers.com/forum/v...downloadid=158



and there are more models from this series
http://www.papermodelers.com/forum/v...=searchresults


The model is simple and is basic in construction. So if you are looking for easy build projects especially now with the pandemic going around, than this is a nice model to build. And for us old timers, this show will bring nice memories.


There is a 3D model in sketchup of this as well here:
https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/mod.../Thunderbird-2



Thunderbirds are GO!!!!!!!



Isaac

[Isaac]

Here are the fuselage parts.


My modification was to remove the glue tabs and add them on like any other conventional build. The fit should be a little better.




The paint is simple and flat. There are no panel lines or shading. So if someone has the skills, I would encourage a repaint of this model to spruce it up a bit.



Isaac

[N96HBK]

I'm excited to see this project unfold!! I remember my friend had a Thunderbirds themed birthday party when we were about four years old. I don't exactly remember much of the series, My dad showed me a few shows on YouTube around that time. Very vague childhood memories, but that's what makes them special, because there's only so much one can remember of that age!!!

[Isaac]

Originally Posted by N96HBK

I'm excited to see this project unfold!! I remember my friend had a Thunderbirds themed birthday party when we were about four years old. I don't exactly remember much of the series, My dad showed me a few shows on YouTube around that time. Very vague childhood memories, but that's what makes them special, because there's only so much one can remember of that age!!!

I had fun times watching the original shows. Even though it was kind of corny using puppets.

Isaac

[Isaac]

Here are the parts.



I assembled the forward section and then the rear.




Note:
There is a wide angular transition between each section and therefore makes the fit difficult and the glue strip do show thru.



Isaac

[Isaac]

Here is the center section. There are only two formers in the entire fuselage to give it its shape.








I don't understand why the joiners for each section had to be on the bottom when most of the fuselage sides are covered later on and you could have a fuselage with very few visible joints on the bottom.



Isaac

[Isaac]

The forward fuselage has a diverging transition on the bottom. Attachment will be tricky later on.



Isaac

[Isaac]

At this point, assemble the forward, center and aft fuselage sections.


There is an opening at the bottom for a strip that will prove difficult due to the sharp angles at the joint, but we will force it into place.



Here is the fuselage so far




Isaac

[Isaac]

Here is the small strip that suppose to connect the forward fuselage bottom to the center.




There is no way for me to have assembled it first and then try to fit, so I let if out at first.


Then glue to the forward tab and press from the inside to fit as best as can be done.


When dry, glue it to the center section ( it needs low tack tape ; Tamiya ).



Not the best as the part wants to bend at places. I will re laminate it later.


Isaac

[Isaac]

Here it is so far.



It reminds me of a loaf of bread in green color

Again, I have no idea why not have the seams that are on the bottom not covered up on the sides where the engines go on?



I did have to print a few sections on thin paper and re laminate on the bent or damaged sections.


Anyhow, this is a very simple design that at the end will still look good!!!!!!



Isaac