Scale Modeling Tip-Wing Seam Inspection

pinchseamI noticed on several builds posted online and at modeling events some modelers fail to get a good solid wing seam, especially on the leading edge. Well there is a simple way to inspect to see if those seams are cemented solidly…PINCH IT.

Simply pinch just inside of the seam to see if a gap appears. No gap means you have a solid seam. If one does appear like illustrated in the photo you need to reapply some solvent to that area.

To ensure you do get it right during the initial assemble I recommend you try this method.

wingseams1

Comments

  1. AL Jones says:

    Be careful of the squeezing and applying glue with trailing edges. The plastic is so thin that adding glue there may just melt the trailing edge.

  2. Gerald Voigt says:

    That’s why I use the razor blade it helps wick the solvent between the pieces. You also need to test your solvent to ensure it isn’t too hot for the plastic. Also one should never pinch the plastic when upset. LOL ;-)

  3. Ross says:

    I’ve tried this, and sometimes the plastic sticks to the razor blade. Lately, I’ve used a thin shim instead, and applied the solvent to the gap just next to the shim, sliding the shim progressively up the seam.

  4. Horton Herrin says:

    What is Touch and Flow? All I see in the photo is dashed lines.

  5. Gerald Voigt says:

    A Touch N Flow is a tool used to apply liquid solvents. It is a glass pipette with a metal needle attached at one end which allows great control over the flow of solvents which have a lower gravity than water. It also allows you to reach into tight hard to reach areas to apply your solvent.

  6. Gerald Voigt says:

    You can use those old rusty blades you used to shave your legs with! LOL

  7. Ross says:

    Haven’t done that since getting my ankles taped for football and gymnastics in high school…yep, they sure are rusty by now…

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