Corvette Model Gallery

1997 Coupe

The model

Ismael built this 1997 coupe from Revell/Monogram's kit# 85-2490 ..   the pictures and comments he sent in..  show how much work and skill can go into a great looking model.  The following comments (quotation marks) are Ismael on the construction of the model.

"The body from the kit was badly warped.. finally had to buy another kit, since R-M wouldn't supply a replacement."

"I haven't built the AMT '97 kit, but this one seems to be better."

"It took more time than I expected, but the model turned out good looking."

There had to be many hours spent on the engine bay detailing along with just getting the hood to fit right... Ismael has to be very please with the results after looking at this picture.

"Sanded body to eliminate mold lines... used automotive primer and finished with Testors Insignia White paint.  As with all my models so far, no clearcoat."

"Added flocking to the interior.. basically stock except for gauge window, made from clear styrene.  Seatbelt buckles (carved from wood toothpick) were added later."

The engine driveline... this is a good picture of what a sub-assembly consist of when building a model.  "A dipstick was added and a line from the trans to the engine, and some wiring.  Replaced molded lines from valve covers with solder core.   'CORVETTE' letters sanded to white plastic and drybrushed with flat red.  Used several metal colors for contrast.  The fan belt was sanded thin and did not encounter any major problems with the engine"

"The chassis was a little tricky to assemble.  Suspension parts were mis-aligned (molds didn't match perfectly).. repaired some and had to build some.   The halfshafts were discarded and new ones made out of brass tubing.  Exhaust were upgraded with aluminum tips (actually painted plastic coffee straw).  Most of the time building the model was spent on the chassis/suspension."

Summary:

As with the other Corvette models from Ismael.. this one shows his patience and talent for building a fine model.  I certainly got a couple of new ideas from Ismael and appreciate his sharing this construction information with the rest of us.  I'm looking forward to what the next project will be from his workbench! 

If you would like to contact Ismael on this model his e-mail address is:  ismaelg@prtc.net

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Note:  Some of Ismael comments were edited for the pictures.

Page updated  09/16/99