Robert E Lee by lazyguy - FINISHED - Scientific Models - scale 1/8" = 1.45'

[lazyguy]

Hello all: gonna start my 1st build log so bear with me. Bought this kit back in 1990's when I first wanted to get into building models. (Hint not a good 1st model). So after switching to r/c airplane modeling for 20+ years I dug this out the other day and thought it's about time to finish this up. I found a build log on this model by Jarero and another couple of pics from Robhow on his build so I figured I could get some help and encouragement if I started one also. 

 

 This is what I have so far;

 

As you can see I put enough work into this to finish it up but I see that my white has yellowed,I didn't stain or varnish the deck,couple parts aren't lining up to good? and my biggest problem and the reason I stopped building is gluing the plastic covers for the paddle wheel, nothing seems to stick. I'm thinking of using balsa instead unless someone has a better idea. Also would like ideas on when and how to finish the deck, and best method of sealing/priming and painting of all these wooden and metal parts. Thanks and happy building Larry.

[Robhvw]

Use super glue on the covers. Dont bother bending them over at first. Glue the one side of it to the bottom of the arch and hold in place with spreader clamps until dry. Make sure the cover is square to the archway. After the glue is dry, glue the rest of the archway and bend the cover over it. You may need to trim a little off the end of the cover. Reapply the clamps and let dry.

[Robhvw]

I used Minwax natural wood finish on my deck. Fairly easy to apply. Try some stains on the deck that's inside the engine compartment. You won't be able to see it on the finished model. I would recommend a natural color. Like Jarero points out the darker stains will bring out the grain in the wood and it won't look good in that small of a scale.

[Robhvw]

I used regular old primer on mine. If your using a paint brush and not a spray gun you will have to apply a few coats to the metal parts.

[Robhvw]

FYI I noticed on your dry fit that you put the support post with the thin strips of wood covering them to far towards the bow. They start at the second hole from the stern and end up covering the boiler.

[lazyguy]

Ok a little update. Looks like I got my build back on track, paddle wheel covers are on thanks for the tip Rob, board and batten installed, stern railings finished, now on to the boiler.  I think I'm gonna pick up some Minwax finish like you used Rob, Does this act as a wood sealer also so I can paint right over it on parts that need painting? My plan of attack is to seal the deck, put as much as I can on that needs painting white then tape off the deck and repaint the white that way I won't have any touch up to do.

 

 Now another question I have is when you paint and prep everything before installing it do you just glue right to the paint? 

 

 A couple of pics so far; 

 

 

Thanks for all the help so far Rob, I hope I won't be too much of a bother but this ship building is a lot different than r/c airplanes I'll tell you that. Happy building Larry

[Robhvw]

Sorry for the delay. I used primer for the pieces that were getting painted. I just glued right to the paint and removed the excess glue.

[mrjuan]

Its great to have found someone else working on the REL from scientific. I bought this kit from someone that ever started it. Wondering if you have any updates?

 

JB

[lazyguy]

Hello all once again. It's been awhile since I last logged in on this kit so I'll give a update. After a short burst of building it was again put on the shelf for a few years until a this Thanksgiving when I must have seen the end in sight and finally finished after 27 years! Thanks for all the help and a few pics of the finished project, Happy building Larry.

 

 

 

Edited December 16, 2019 by lazyguy
wrong pics

[GrandpaPhil]

Congratulations!  Well done!

[etubino]

2 hours ago, lazyguy said:

Hello all once again. It's been awhile since I last logged in on this kit so I'll give a update. After a short burst of building it was again put on the shelf for a few years until a this Thanksgiving when I must have seen the end in sight and finally finished after 27 years! Thanks for all the help and a few pics of the finished project, Happy building Larry.

 

 

 

L, you did an impecable work. It is amazing what you have done with this Scientific kit! Superb!!

[dan evans]

great job i am building the Robert E lee but it is an Amati kit.   Thousands of tiny planks.