Any tips on 43rd scale models?

From a question on the F1M Yahoo Group about Tameo's Lotus 79 kit,

Michael (emsquared21) responded....

Hi Gregg,

Welcome to the dark side! ;o)

You have chosen probably the best maker in 1/43rd to start you foray in this scale. I am not exaggerating when I say that Tameo's kits are equal to Tamiya's in terms of quality,fit and detail.

But, thay are a bit more challenging. So, a few general tips based on my experience: 

• test fit the P/E parts before doing any bending as you only get one chance to get it right. if you bend the wrong way, you will usually end up with a broken piece. As meticulous as Luca is with his

• instruction sheets, they can also be sometimes incorrect (as I found out with the rear lower suspension arm assembly on the 312T4 that I am currently working on!).

• the rear drive axle needs to be trimmed, so you may want to determine the correct length before you apply the epoxy or superglue to the parts. Also, drill right through the gearbox as this will give you more room to slide the axle shafts (the first one will almost be easy!)

• use 'something' that is 90 degrees to get the rear wing assembly perfectly square (though this may not be such an issue on the Lotus. It is important on the multi-element rear wings found on modern F1 cars). Just to let you know, I superglue the main elements to one endplate, let them dry, then attach to the opposite endplate. At this point, simply concentrate on getting an approximate fit. When dry, butt the 90 degree 'somethings' (I use new post it note pads),

• and gently press to get everything square. Move the wing assembly to check the fit of the various edges-ie; ensure that not only is it square when looking from the front or rear, but also, from the

• sides. When satisfied, apply glue for strength (epoxy is slow setting, but is preferred, IMO). Finally, attach the elements that slide into the endplate slots. BTW, be careful when trimming the elements: you do not want unequal lengths, or your wing cannot be made square. I check mine with a vernier caliper after cleaning and trimming.

• you may also wish to 'deepen' the holes that do not require additional drilling. Eg-the spots for the intake trumpets were not deep enough on my T4. A few minutes with a pin vise, and all was perfect. Speaking of drilling: drill out the suspension holes in the monocoque before any filling and sanding. If they are shallow enough, you may find that they may disappear (it's happened)

• do yourself a couple of favours: a) join the Yahoo group for 1/43 modellers if you have not done so already, b) order a copy of the John Simon (of Marsh Models fame) book, 'The World of 1/43'. It is an excellent source of help (I believe that RCS lists it as well-among the Marsh Models section).

other than that, take your time, and you will be rewarded with an extremely beautiful model. Forgive me if my tips are a bit too basic for you. I understand and respect that you have considerable experience working in other scales, and I do not wish, nor am I in any position, to sound condescending.

Cheers,
Michael