Assembly of Vehicles and Models
Peter Pig models are made of various materials. Some are metal and some resin. A few are a mixture of the two. Gamers have their own methods which work. However there seems a need to detail a few ideas on assembly to help with tricky models or for gamers new to Peter Pig models
Models/Vehicles
Most metal vehicles have separate wheels or track units. Because the moulds get a coating of talc in order to obtain a good surface finish the model itself will have some talc residue on it. This residue may stop glue working to its full effect.
First of all scratch the surfaces that will be glued together with a compass point. this will "key" the surface so that the two parts will adhere better.
We recommend the use of super glue for assembly. The glue is best poured onto a 2p coin and then picked up with a straightened piece of wire or paper clip. This allows small amounts of glue to be applied to the correct place.
Second. Mix up a small amount of modelling putty. Miliput is good but the yellow/blue green stuff is best as it is a bit sticky.
Third Glue a small pea sized or smaller piece on one of the surfaces that will be between the two parts.
Fourth Put some glue on the placed putty but.
Fifth Press the component in to place and the putty will allow some adjustment to get the right "sit"
Sixth Put the model on the radiator to arm and set more quickly.
Seventh (!) When the putty is fully set use the wire to drip in a bit more super glue.
Tank Guns
Many Peter Pig tanks have separate barrels. A small blob of putty
as detailed in assembly of models/vehicles is the best ,method. Once the putty
and glue has been applied the turret should be placed on the tank to ensure that
the gun is at the correct elevation .
Wheeled Vehicles
Use putty and glue again but leave the vehicle upside down to let the
wheels set. Once the putty is set (probably hours later) the vehicles can
be put up the proper way and any other details added.
Aerials
Many vehicles and models are enhanced by adding aerials. Peter pig
vehicles have the appropriate location with a small dimple in which to start
drilling. Do use a very fine drill. When using a fine drill it should be held in
a pin vice and operated by hand. an electric drill will go too fast
and snap the drill. A pin vice can be bought from most model shops. It resembles
a metal pencil with a chuck on the end. Before commencing drilling dip the drill
tip in oil or water. this will make the drill cut quicker and prevent
overheating/jamming/snapping!
The best wire to use is very thin brass wire. Most aerials are about 3cm long (protruding). Always glue the wire in before trimming to length.
American Civil war Ships
The civil war ships are mostly made from Resin. There are "dimples" in the deck for gamers who wish to drill in optional masts. A small electric hobby drill should be used. Masts should be made from brass wire. The mast wire can be dipped in a little super glue and pushed into the drilled hole. Once the glue has set the mast can be trimmed to appropriate height.
Ships boats can be added in a similar way although the holes need not be very deep. The location for the holes should be marked with a marker pen by holding the ships boat/davit next to the model.
Ships can have the waterline lowered by use of sand paper. The best paper to use is the aluminium oxide paper which seems to be more efficient. To reduce the waterline lay the sandpaper flat on a very flat surface such as a desk top or board. Mode the ship in a circular motion or even a figure of 8 motion to prevent uneven sanding.
Gunboat Albion
The Albion is a very big and heavy model.. Initially the assembly should be carried out with superglue. when set fully putty can be pressed into gaps and used to support joints. Good use of putty to support the assembly will ensure more years of use.
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