MODELLING THOR MISSILE(S)

[zak]

After my talk on Thor Missiles and bases, this is my first mock up of a base.
Some selective compression may have to be used as even one launch site was quite large.
The missile base is from Belcher's Bits and the erector trailer is in the process of being scratch built.

[Pen-Pusher]

Impressive work. Watching this one closely!

[Bigkev]

The 'God' of Bempton strikes again!
Nice Zak,
I am sure it will be an impressive model once complete, even if you have to use some artistic licence on size of site.
It will attract a lot of interest.
Cheers,
Bigkev

[zak]

I have built the 1/76 BW Leyland Hippo and erector trailer combination, not too happy with the results, but it is white metal after all.
Note to self - must do better.

[zak]

Some progress with the launch system, the missile fits on the base (this is the BW missile) and the trailer erector mates with the lower part of the launch base.
The clamshell clamp works and the missile goes up and down as does the trailer.
A bit more research and reading needed - or guesswork to see how to connect the umbilical tower to the launch platform.
The missile has only been undercoated.

[bridlufc]

What did you use for the glass in the cab on the Leyland Hippo?

Bridlufc

[zak]

Clear plastic card.

[bridlufc]

Do you treat clear plastic card with future/ the new equivalent  beforehand?

Bridlufc

[zak]

Do you treat clear plastic card with future/ the new equivalent  beforehand?

Bridlufc

Afterwards, the smaller windows were filled with Humbrol Clearfix.

[zak]

Here we are, I missed the mudguards off the erector, for some reason I had assumed that they were removed with the rear dolly, but apparently not.
Anyway by popular demand (well Adrian) we have mudguards.

[Bigkev]

Hi Zak,
This is one intriguing build, and mudguards added to boot.
I think this will be a definite crowd pleaser.
Cheers,
Bigkev

[zak]

Whatever can this be?
Answers on a postcard please.




Well I won't tease you too long, it will eventually be the missile shelter, I am beginning to regret this, just look at the size.

[Bigkev]

Are you applying for FOUR tables now at Telford?
You just don't realise the space they occupied until you see it like this.
Nice work.
Cheers,
Bigkev

[zak]

Selective compression - well some anyway.
The track that the shelter ran on was 300ft long (1200mm in 4mm scale).
Mine is just over a metre, it will have to do.
The rails are OO, spaced the required distance apart, this is real Broad Gauge.

[zak]

Trawling the net I came across this model of a Thor base from 1961.
https://www.oldmodelkits.com/blog/plastic-model-kit-history/itc-ideal-toy-company-model-kit-history-and-cam-a-matic-action-used-in-the-halibut-uss-enterprise-thor-mercer-duesenburg-and-battling-betsy/

I would buy one but I believe they go for around £1000 or so. Mrs Smith says dream on.