[HotTrap429]

I recently created an inventory list of my collection and was surprised to find the 1/4 of my models had been "customized" in one form or another. Some had weathering details added while others got the complete treatment: fixed errors, new paint and markings, and weathering. My question is this; how many of you do the same thing as part of your diecast collector hobby and to what extent.

[mustangdriver]

I customize some of my stuff, but I always buy a double to do that to. I have done everything from a Franklin Mint P-40, B-24, and B-17, to converting a GMP Scott P-40 to a R.T. Smith P-40 #77. I am in the middle of doing a GMP P-51 to a Hurry Home honey.

[hworth18]

I have repainted only a few select planes in my collection just for the fact that they were duplicates and i wanted another variant, or in need of a more realistic paint scheme..

[Epapazian]

As I have mentioned in numerous threads and posts, I always try to improve or correct my diecast models. For many, this requires only some weathering, perhaps a painted landing or navigation light, etc. Often, however, I add a pilot to my dragon and Hobby Master "drones" ,but in many cases---notably with IXO, Atlas, Altaya, and Model Power planes, I do a 50-100% repaint. As a rule, these involve totally new schemes and when such projects strike my fancy, I usually buy two or three copies of each plane for this purpose. I probably have about 75 total repaints on my display shelves along with about three times this number with relatively minor adjustments. My total repaint projects include quite a few Dragons and Corgis, but so far I have barely touched my Witty, Gemini, Hobby Master, and Century Wing models.

[jim]

I am tempted all the time to work on my models to add a little realism to them but I dont have the space to set up a little work area, I dont have the eyesight needed and I dont have the steady hands any more.
I am told by Lorraine that I dont have any patience these days either so I think its best to leave the models alone just as they are.

[Shawn 507]

I'm doing it to the Corgi B-24 Michigan right now. So far I've stripped all the tail markings, cheerleader and small side insignia. I've replaced the port/starboard insignia with something larger, added the O.D. armor plate near the cockpit and will re-paint the tails for the 453rd BG. What I'm in need of is 1/72nd various sized black letter decals. I missed ordered some dark blue ones from Squadron, but cannot find any in black.
Any ideas on where to get them??

[Cruver Collecter]

Planes I purchase stay in the condition I pick them up in. If I want certain aircraft not available in diecast I will do so in kit form. Detailing I have found gets the best results when you start from the ground up, and it can be easier as far as the cockpit goes. The real challenge with plastic kits is removing the seams without damaging the panel lines, seam scrapers and wet sandpaper usually do this fairly well.

[D H]

Like many I repaint double-ups, or where there is a specific scheme missing eg Dragon Wildcat to Martlet. Sometimes involves a complete repaint, sometimes just redecals.
Given my very narrow field of interest, it has allowed my imagination run wild (The RAF North Atlantic P-38!!).............I have also recently comissioned two builds (from kit)......an Albacore and a Barracuda, which I saw finished shots of today.........very impressive!!!

[Captain Eddie]

Originally Posted by jim

I am tempted all the time to work on my models to add a little realism to them but I dont have the space to set up a little work area, I dont have the eyesight needed and I dont have the steady hands any more.
I am told by Lorraine that I dont have any patience these days either so I think its best to leave the models alone just as they are.

I can identify with the above, Jim. I have the space if I wanted it, but the rest is right on!

[jim]

Originally Posted by Captain Eddie

I can identify with the above, Jim. I have the space if I wanted it, but the rest is right on!

Captain, I was told with age comes wisdom,

I AM STILL WAITING!!!!!!! I got the age, but wisdom?