Way back in August 2020 I started working on this kit. I've actually had this kit for 5 years but never thought that I had the skill level to build it. I also have had the masking set from Orbital Drydock for the same amount of time. Turns out that letting vinyl masks sit that long aren't a good idea. More on that later.
First thing to do was fix the inaccuracy of the bridge module. As it comes it is too low and too far back to properly project a light onto the registry. So I sanded down the raised details of the windows and built them back up with styrene. I was then able to position it more forward so that the light will clear the edge below.
Next up was inserting the brass window frame for the Observation Lounge. A little filing, a little putty, lots of patience.
I used scotch tape to hold it in place from the outside then glued it from behind with white canopy glue. Once that was dry I puttied around the outside edges and sanded it all down as smooth as I could.
For no particular reason I worked on the shuttle bay next. Paragrafix photoetch kit for added details.
Then I got it all buttoned up and started working on the giant seams. Lots of putty and sanding. Lots.
Rather than go through all of this step by step, you can see my progress below. I got a lot done before it got too cold for painting down in the garage. I had a hell of a time with the masking set doing the "stronback" and around the sensor (the blue and gray patterns below). They had no tack at all. I don't know if it was their age or if they came that way. That's what I get for sitting on the project for 5 years. But I honestly don't think I had the skills to do this until now. I just purchased a new masking set for the aztec patterns on the hull.
I think I stopped right before Xmas 2020. It is now May 2021 and I think I am ready to get back at it and get this pig done.
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