Merit Alfa 158 (1950) update kit (DECALS NOW AVAILABLE!)

[indycals]

I recently acquired a 1/24 scale Merit Alfa Romeo 158 kit. Not a bad kit for it's price and age, but it does leave a lot of room for improvement. First recommendation - get the wire wheel upgrade kit from Herb Deeks Link

Second - the engine and cockpit are generic at best (and the engine doesn't even have a correct air intake). So, I went ahead and drew up a brand new engine, radiator and cockpit pieces. This is not available yet, but I really think this - combined with the Deeks wheels, will bring new life to this kit. I'll be sending this to Shapeways in the next few days and if all is well, I will make it available through Shapeways. Oh, I'm also doing decals that will include the various colored patterns for the nose and I've been experimenting with a chrome decal for the grille (jury is still out).

I've already had requests to do a similar update for the Talbot Lago - if the Alfa update does well, then the Talbot update is highly likely.

Here's a preview of what I have. This will have pre-formed holes for easy running of spark plug wire.

[flashman]

Considering how widely available both the Alfa and Talbot-Lago (or Lago-Talbot depending on the issue ) kits are, what with the SMER and more recent Atlantis issues being easily found (http://www.amazon.com/Classic-Plastic-T ... B00DRENBV6), I think you've picked a great subject to do. In fact, I've got the SMER kits of both in my stash.

Looking forward to what you produce!.

Cameron

[mobiusone]

It took me a while to realize what kit you were talking about! then I look down and I have one on my desk at work Well, the Talbot anyway. This is AMAZING news, I still have the Alfa to build and I know I will for SURE buy both the shapeways and decals as this kit could use some TLC if you decide to come out with them.

Now, a quick question. What are these Deeks wheels you speak of? The wheels were always the bane of these kits IMO.

[indycals]

The Deeks wheels are actual wire inserts for the kit tires - see the link in my first post. I have a set but haven't used them yet.

[F1tommy]

Looks nice...I think Fernando Pinto (FPPM) wire wheels will work on the kit also.

[pmodwrks]

Nice Michael, I built mine with the Deeks Wires, although a older, no longer in production set that came with the white metal wheels and nice rubber tires, this looks like another winner too....

[indycals]

It was suggested that I do a new grille - as I had entertained that thought, I decided to give it a go:

[JamesB]

Wow! Ultra serious and accurate stuff as usual.
It really seems something to get the SMERs into quite great kits.
Yes, the 3D grill is probably a better shot than the decal.
I tried mine from mesh, but what I obtained was just replacing the "h" for a "s"... a mess!!!
Nice stuff Michael, thanks for making. I think the Talbot is also a good idea. There are quite a few versions. Including one with fenders and headlights for Le Mans.
I have the Heller kit too, should you need some pic or info on it.

[Bozothenutter]

great news!

I remember there used to be a PE set for this which had the grille for it.

any plans for Talbot stuff?

[mobiusone]

Yes Yes Michael! I'll literally buy all of these! Take my money just take it! Can't wait to see all the goodies