STAR
TREK
USS ENTERPRISE
NCC 1701
Page 1
This project was done using the AMT Ertl 18" model. The plan was to make this as accurate as possible without the use of available conversions. After opening the box I think I put it away at least 5 times before finding a way to correct some of the more obvious inaccuracies. This section will cover the problems and solutions to the saucer. The model was molded with a grid pattern on the upper surface that will need to be removed. However I would recommend that this is done after the following modifications. With all the data collected the major modifications were traced out in pencil on the models surface.
STEP 1
The Saucer Section:
Starting with the saucer section the bridge through
B deck were separated from the saucer by scribing around the B decks base.
You can also see some of the grid pattern removal and sanding to the top surface.
After the
A and B deck are removed you will have an easier time cutting away the bridge
with a razor saw. These cuts are essential to
correcting the shape of this area.
The first view shows the incorrect shape
of the A & B decks. The first cut took out a 1/8" strip down the
center aft of the bridge. In front of the bridge opening you can see three
cuts toward the front these are relief cuts to prevent the plastic from buckling
as it is pulled together to the corrected shape.
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The thickness removed when the bridge
was cut off lowers its profile to a more correct height. The other pleasant
outcome was that after bending the lower section the opening for the bridge
closed up just enough so that when reattached there is no need for putty.
The reference image to the right is of the studio model.
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Here is the altered A&B deck with Bridge attached.
The depression at the top of the bridge was filled with a styrene disk slightly
thicker than the depth and sanded to the new profile. A clear acrylic half
sphere was attached for the dome. After completing this part of the project
I have decided to keep this as a master to cast this as a one piece in clear
resin for lighting and future builds.
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The hole left from the A&B deck removal has been
filled (saucer plug) and sanded to shape. At this point I have started
sanding off the remaining grid lines. The next step will be to open the saucer
plug, mark window locations and open them for lighting. The photo to the right
shows the new profile of the bridge through B deck in a test fit prior to
casting.
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Here is another modification while casting
is under way. On the studio model the second ring extends out where the others
share the same profile. The reference image on the left and the modified ring
on the right. This was done by adding a .040x1/32" strip of styrene rolled
to shape and glued directly to the ring.
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2005 Modelhead.com