The F1M Forums

I prefer building Ferrari cars in 1/12, but when MFH announced the Bugatti T35 I couldn't resist to order the kit, because I love that vintage cars due to their visible mechanic.
I know that there a some faults in the kit like the bulky tires and the incorrect tail, what was sufficiently debated in this forum. But I hope to eliminate these faults.

I started with the motor, which is completely made from white metal.
The two halves where soldered to eliminate the juncture. I tried to keep the metal surface, but the sanding process achieved no satisfying result. So I succeded to get an equal surface by sandblasting. I think this comes close to a cast motor block.

Nice work so far. I am looking forward to seeing how you build and improve this kit.

Jordan

The engine block highlights the problems i was expecting with this kit that have so far kept me from buying it.
While you achieved a nice even look with the sandblasting, the real engine doesn't have a cast surface because it was machined and treated with this typical for Bugatti "engine spin" pattern. To achieve this would mean to get rid of all cast in details before trying to apply it or go even further and scratchbuild the block from aluminium... that is if you have the necessary equipment/means to do so... and who has!? It's a dilemma!
I'll follow and look forward to see what you will do with this build!

My recollection from an old Road&Track issue was that the engine finish was not "engine turned" but a chipped finish, achieved with a chisel and hammer. The firewall was engine-turned aluminum. My recollection may be hazy but that's what I remember.

I have some photos of an unrestored 35 from the Revs Institute museum in Naples, Florida. I'll post them within the next day or so.

Was the engine block machined from aluminum billet?
If so perhaps prime it and paint with a metalizer paint like those used for aircraft?

Here's one

Great to see this build as I’m very interested in the kit and the real car. As I like to do with other MFH 1/12 scale kits, I’ve been looking for the instructions. Usually I’ve found them on the MFH site and sharper images of the instructions on Barchetta. That has not been the case with this kit. If there is a copy of the instructions online and I’ve missed them would someone please point me in the right direction? If someone would like to scan their instructions I’d be very appreciative.
Good luck with your build! I’ll be following along with great interest.

Paul Erlendson

Thank for the help Paul! I really appreciate it.

Paul Erlendson

Those photos are nice but show a non supercharged car. The Type 35B that Hiro attempted to model has a supercharger.