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Forum Boards => Kit Building => Topic started by: rpdylan on January 01, 2020, 08:57:00 AM

Title: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 01, 2020, 08:57:00 AM
this is what I chose- reading through the instructions it looks like this is a challenging little kit- lots of stuff in the box. My target is to start this weekend. First thing is to make some copies of the templates so I don't ruin them accidentally during the build process. perusing the instructions, it appears as the walls will be built in close to the same manner as I did with the Bartholow Coal build.  Being as this is a 40+ year old kit, the painting/staining instructions are out of date as I don't have any Floquil products left!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on January 01, 2020, 09:27:39 AM
Looks interesting,  I'll be following.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: GPdemayo on January 01, 2020, 09:53:47 AM
Neat kit Bob.....I'll be looking in.  :)
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ACL1504 on January 01, 2020, 11:43:11 AM
Bob,

Count me in with the rest of the followers. Any FSM build is a good one.

Tom  ;D
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on January 01, 2020, 12:51:33 PM
I'll be following along, Bob.

I am quite partial to this particular FSM offering, and don't believe I have ever seen a build thread on it.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Raymo on January 01, 2020, 12:55:03 PM
Great choice! Another old school FSM build.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on January 01, 2020, 01:51:36 PM
Bob


I will be following along. I have this kit on my build list and will be following with great interest. The original is on Gil Feitag's layout.  I will try to remember too post a couple pictures if you are interested.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on January 01, 2020, 02:40:43 PM
I'll be following along as well.  This is the kit that got me hooked on FSM kits as well as craftsman kits in general.  My first FSM build and first big dollar kit.  I think I paid $70 for it when I bought it a long, long time ago.  :D 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: NEMMRRC on January 01, 2020, 04:39:44 PM
I'm eager to see this one built. I've seen it built differently at a narrow gauge contest room and it was impressive.


Jaime
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Karl O on January 01, 2020, 09:46:02 PM

Hello,

I have built this kit twice and think it's really under-rated in the FSM library of kits. If you'd like to see my last build of this kit I have some photos of it. Cheers,

Karl O
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 01, 2020, 09:52:59 PM
Hey Karl, I actually have your build thread on a short cut on my favorites! Nice job! I also mixed up homemade stain like you did! Thanks!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on January 02, 2020, 06:30:14 AM
Bob, looks like a great choice for the winter build. I'll be looking in. I've been considering a small area of similar type industries so this will be very helpful.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Oldguy on January 02, 2020, 10:26:57 AM
Looking forward on how you approach this kit.  I have been holding off on mine.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Judge on January 02, 2020, 10:34:09 AM
John - This kit should be a true test of artistic modeling.  A daunting challenge.  But you are up to it.  I will follow along with the others.  You should finish the kit quickly since you are enjoying the winter season and can't do much else.  It's a summy 70 degrees where I sit.  Sorry about that.

BTW, Happy New Year to you!

The Judge
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: NEMMRRC on January 04, 2020, 04:07:08 PM
Quote from: Karl O on January 01, 2020, 09:46:02 PM

Hello,

I have built this kit twice and think it's really under-rated in the FSM library of kits. If you'd like to see my last build of this kit I have some photos of it. Cheers,

Karl O
Is that build on this forum?


I've always wondered if the kit was based on a prototype structure.


Jaime
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 05, 2020, 06:52:47 PM
Karl's build thread of this kit is on the Railroad line forum, a most excellent build thread!
    Once again there is a lot packed into these yellow boxes.... I remember when I did my first FSM kit and was a bit overwhelmed by all the contents and instructions, but I just went one step at time!
    So I just put everything else aside except for what sub-structure I'm working on, and the first thing in this kit is the "concrete" base.  There is a note from George saying that there was a problem in making the castings for the base- so he changed it to have the pieces cut from a piece of wood.... not too hard using my miter box. All is glued together and some plastic wood is used to fill the seams.  I plan on using Liquitex stucco for the concrete,...
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 07, 2020, 05:06:17 PM
looks like the build challenge got off to a great start! lots of action going on!
    If anyone has followed my previous builds you probably know that I love using Liquitex Stucco for concrete , stucco (duh), ,,,, the stuff is easy to apply, dries fast, easily sandable,,, I put the stuff on with a brush, my finger--- you can't mess it up because you can always put more on in spots after. When it is sanded it makes this really nice surface that, to me, looks closer in scale. 
    From Karl O. I borrowed his technique of making stain:  I mixed some carbon black ink with a few drops of the brown to make a custom stain,,,, its a bit different in look than my Hunterline Black,, you can see a hint of brown in it when looked at closely. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 14, 2020, 05:50:17 PM
not much to post,,,, work, skiing, and house projects are interfering with bench-time!  I started putting the walls of the bunker together. Anyone who has built an FSM kit will be familiar with this type of construction.  I tape wax paper over the templates and then start the framing over this.....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on January 15, 2020, 05:30:49 AM
Nice looking wall taking shape there, Bob. 
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 15, 2020, 06:41:40 AM
Thanks George! I never get tired of seeing how a bag of sticks can transform into a cool model!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on January 15, 2020, 07:20:11 AM
This brings back some great memories of my first FSM build.  Thanks for sharing Bob!  :)

Note to self - Pick up some of that Liquitex Carbon Black and Transparent Burnt Umber to mix up some of that custom stain.   ;)
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on January 15, 2020, 07:36:46 AM
Bob


It's coming along nicely, Karl has some great techniques - I used his stain formula for a trestle I built a few years back.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 15, 2020, 03:35:10 PM
thanks guys!
   looking back i realized that I didn't really explain the home made stain solution... Michaels had these little glass bottles that I got when I bought the Liquitex ink. I put some 91% Isopropyl alcohol in the bottle and added some brown ink,, then a drop at a time of the black, testing on some strip wood to see how I liked the color.  I also picked up some gray stain and mixed that along with some of the black to make a dark gray mixture. (I just needed to add some variety to kit builds because I found myself using the same stain for everything I did).
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 29, 2020, 07:46:36 AM
bench time has been difficult this month- I keep getting pulled away for a variety of reasons,,, I have been nibbling away at the walls...
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on January 29, 2020, 10:56:26 AM
I like those walls, Bob. The homemade stain does a nice job.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 29, 2020, 02:27:54 PM
thanks George!  Its so funny how the light source will change the color... in the layout room, the lights are "Daylight" florescent, and the stain has a more gray look.... the last photos I took in my kitchen with regular ceiling flood lights above the counter and the stain looks more brown
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 29, 2020, 05:00:58 PM
For the concrete color I used this chalk paint from Michael's. To my eyes, its pretty dead-on to the old Polly-Scale aged concrete. The dry transfers that came with the kit seemed a bit dried out and super fragile, some of the letters just flaked off (I think they are about 40 years old?)... I hit them with Dull Coat after I applied them, then I used some weathering powders on the walls.
   

Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on January 30, 2020, 05:19:16 PM
Bob, the dry transfers look pretty good for their age.  Fortunately as graffiti and an old company logo, the flaking adds character.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on January 30, 2020, 11:48:34 PM
I messed up and put the Rock sign too low! Oh well,,,,,,,
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on January 31, 2020, 07:32:05 AM
I really like that concrete color. 

Man, I forget that this one came with dry transfers.  It's been a long time since I built it.  The dry transfers came out just fine.  Like Opa George noted, the flaking adds character.   ;)

Looking very good!  Thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: postalkarl on January 31, 2020, 07:51:12 AM
Hey Bob:

Never built that one but I always like it's looks. You are doing A fine job.

Karl
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 04, 2020, 01:56:18 PM
thanks Bob and karl!
    this kit is nothing but strip wood in bags! ha ha!.... the instructions call for the plate and NBWs to be put on after the framing is done, but I'm holding off until the floor and interior bunker walls are done.  The flooring is put in board by board, then the interior walls are made by edge gluing strip wood together. I made a template using some thin cardboard to check the fit and its all looking good so far....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: SteveCuster on February 04, 2020, 05:40:40 PM
Looking good Bob. This is the first FSM kit I built. Those almost 50 year old dry transfers can be tough to work with.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: carl b on February 04, 2020, 05:51:16 PM
Nice work Bob!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: sdrees on February 04, 2020, 08:24:26 PM
Hey Bob, very nice work.  The weathering looks just great!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on February 04, 2020, 10:18:47 PM
Looking terrific, Bob.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on February 05, 2020, 08:02:01 AM
Bob


The build looks great! I really love these old FSM kits.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: richbeau on February 07, 2020, 08:26:17 AM
Wonderful build!  Lots of info here thanks. 

All of you guys have been hitting my on-the-shelf collection pretty heavily lately. This is just another kit that I have that I will eventually build.  ;D
--Rich
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on February 07, 2020, 09:49:01 AM
Bob, the wood coloring and construction is extremely well done.  I love the look of this already.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: postalkarl on February 07, 2020, 01:43:57 PM
Hey Bob:

Looks just beautiful. Love all the grafitti.

karl
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: NEMMRRC on February 09, 2020, 11:30:35 AM
Quote from: rpdylan on February 04, 2020, 01:56:18 PM
thanks Bob and karl!
    this kit is nothing but strip wood in bags! ha ha!.... the instructions call for the plate and NBWs to be put on after the framing is done, but I'm holding off until the floor and interior bunker walls are done.  The flooring is put in board by board, then the interior walls are made by edge gluing strip wood together. I made a template using some thin cardboard to check the fit and its all looking good so far....
I've enjoyed best the board-by-board builds from FSM. It's like building the real in miniature..... Wait, isn't that what were after here  ;D


Jaime
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 13, 2020, 12:12:14 PM
Yes it is Jaime!!
thanks to all for following and the kind comments.
    got all of the framing done on the main portion, including the floor studs that sit underneath.  This scratch tool I use for smaller pieces, (Karl O. idea)
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on February 13, 2020, 01:03:01 PM
Looking great, Bob.

Nice little scratch tool.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 15, 2020, 07:34:41 AM
does anyone have a close up photo of the top details of this model? I am looking at the upper horizontal conveyor assembly where the motor is and I am thinking I'm missing a casting. the instructions call for a two piece motor casting that operates the horizontal belt and the photos with the kit are not very clear in this area.  thanks
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: postalkarl on February 15, 2020, 10:43:01 AM
Hey Bob:

looks just great so far. Another great FSM kit.

Karl
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Oldguy on February 15, 2020, 10:47:50 AM
I believe that the part is the motor itself and the belt with a guard which is a separate piece.  They are in the lower right of the photo below.  The belt and guard is above and to the left of the motor.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 15, 2020, 04:46:39 PM
Thanks Karl and Bob,,,,
    Bob, found that casting in the box, thank you for the help! .  I would still love to see a close up photo of the top portion of this model,  the black and white photos in the kit are kind of dark and hard to see some of the detail....
     
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 16, 2020, 07:26:28 PM
the operators shed that sits on top is cut out from a cardboard template.  the instructions call for covering it with black tar paper, but I think that Karl O. had a great idea with using strip wood boards for the outside,, so that is what I'm going to do.
    I bought this old box of scenery material at a flea market a few years ago, I think I paid 50 cents for it. Its super light material and is really a nice looking stone material.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 17, 2020, 11:36:09 AM
the operator's shed is getting covered with 1x6 painted barn red. 
    as for filling the bins, the instructions call for making some cardboard pieces to fit into the bins, then use plastic wood to make pile shapes and cover with the provided sand. What I did was to make these pieces using the wall templates, then I put some Scultamold on top to make the shapes. Then these pieces will slide into the bin openings.  I am not using the provided sand because I don't like the look of it- the color variation of the sand makes the scale of the stuff look "off" IMO. So I am using some material I have in my scenery stash. The second bin I'm using some fine gray ballast.... I've got two more bins to fill so I gotta decide what to use for those. The company is selling different products so obviously I need variation in the bins. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on February 17, 2020, 04:04:46 PM
Bob


The original rock bunker model was built by Gil Frietag and I photographed it at the Houston Narrow Gauge convention.  George used Gil's model as an inspiration for his kit. 


I have a thread in the layouts section of the forum if you want to take a look. 


Houston Narrow Gauge Layout Tour


[size=78%]P. 6     Gil Frietag's - Stoney Creek & Western Railroad[/size]
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on February 17, 2020, 08:55:33 PM

(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-170220205747.jpeg)




(http://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-170220205824.jpeg)





Here is a couple of the pictures of Gil's Rock Bunker.  See page 16 of the thread for more.


http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=3391.225 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=3391.225)
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: JimF on February 18, 2020, 02:17:46 AM
Just catching up.

Incredible detail work, Bob.

Jim
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on February 28, 2020, 06:40:29 PM
thanks guys! 
   John, those photos are great! its cool to see the original model and the changes that George made for his kit.  Its been hard to get bench time lately due to a home renovation project that I'm doing.... it never ends!
    this is where I'm at now with this.... lots more to go....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on February 29, 2020, 10:20:32 AM
Thanks for the trip down memory lane Bob.  I don't recall exactly when I built mine but it was a long, long time ago.   :o  This coming together wonderfully.  :D
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on March 09, 2020, 02:27:48 PM
I started adding the railing support castings to the upper deck,,, I found that painting them with Railroad Tie Brown from Micromark is a good match for my wood stain. 
   The instructions have me jump on to the office structure. The walls are not laser cut but are pretty darn accurate. I had to finish cutting out the windows and door openings from the clapboard siding. I had to laugh at a line in the instructions regarding the clapboard walls- George refers to them as a "breakthrough" in modeling.... nowadays we take this siding for granted!
   the interior of the office is framed with studs... you can see some of the wood grain in the siding material--- in the past I hit the inside walls (in between the studs) with pastel chalk and it came out pretty good, so I plan on doing that with these walls. 

Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: deemery on March 09, 2020, 04:36:33 PM
I've had very good results by priming the "Neutral Yellow" Badger "Stynlrez" primer http://www.badgerairbrush.com/Stynylrez.asp and then applying wood stain over that.  You'll probably have to go over the primer multiple times to get a good stain color.


dave
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on March 27, 2020, 11:59:43 AM
The office structure is to have a removable roof,,, lots of castings go inside and outside of the building....
    the instructions called for the upper deck to be mounted before the conveyor belt assembly is installed but I am going to do as much as I can on the deck before I mount it. I used light black construction paper for the belt, misting it with gray primer. The motor assembly will get a bit more weathering.... I'm also saving the top railing for the absolute last, because I think it will just get in my way,,, plus its fragile.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on March 27, 2020, 07:18:23 PM
Looks great Bob.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on March 28, 2020, 07:48:34 AM
castings are being added to the interior of the office building....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: NKP768 on March 29, 2020, 12:51:50 PM
Nice work Bob - following from the bunker
Doug
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on March 30, 2020, 07:20:08 PM
its incredible how much modeling work is involved in this kit,,,, its such a small box!  This kit is so cool, its a nice kit to build to get away from the same old building of clapboard walls, ect. I will say that when building this thing, accuracy is a must, and I have been going slow and steady with this thing.
   The canopy structure that sits over the hoist shed is your basic framing over template construction, not very difficult. I am using the provided metal corrugated roofing material,,,, treating the material with etching solution. This is some really nasty stuff, dipping it in the solution and then in water to stop the process. some pieces I dissolved more than others.  The treated pieces are thinner and fragile but look great when rusted up.  This little rust paint set I got at Hobby Lobby, and is a pretty good deal price wise for getting some of these great paints. what I did was hit the panels with darker rust color, then lighter,,, basically just dabbing on the paint until I thought they looked good.....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on March 31, 2020, 09:33:35 AM
Quote from: rpdylan on March 30, 2020, 07:20:08 PM
I am using the provided metal corrugated roofing material,,,, treating the material with etching solution. This is some really nasty stuff, dipping it in the solution and then in water to stop the process. some pieces I dissolved more than others.  The treated pieces are thinner and fragile but look great when rusted up.

Have you done this before?  I tried it years ago.  It looked great at the time.  But I found out that I apparently didn't do enough to completely stop the etching process.  Years later when I pulled the kit out of the box I had it stored in I found the panels had continued to erode.  Some were almost all the way gone and the there were some interesting piles of rusty rubble on the ground beneath them.  :o  Live and learn.  I never tried it again though I still have the bottle of etchant.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on March 31, 2020, 11:57:42 AM
hey Bob,
   yes, I have done it before. I soak the metal in water after the etching,.. the ones I did years ago are still ok on the structures.  I like the paper ones from KC Workshop, I may use those ones on the roof.....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on March 31, 2020, 12:48:23 PM
Quote from: rpdylan on March 31, 2020, 11:57:42 AM
hey Bob,
   yes, I have done it before. I soak the metal in water after the etching,.. the ones I did years ago are still ok on the structures.  I like the paper ones from KC Workshop, I may use those ones on the roof.....

Glad to hear it.   ;)  I did mine over 30 years ago (yikes!).  I followed the instructions in a pamphlet that was included in an FSM kit.  They were written by Ken Hamilton.

I should get some of the paper ones from KC Workshop.  Something good to have on hand. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on March 31, 2020, 03:46:07 PM
Coming on really nicely, Bob.

It sure looks like a fun kit to build.  Your corrugated iron looks terrific!

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on March 31, 2020, 04:58:32 PM
Interesting discussion on the etching solution for corrugated sheets.  I used that technique with a kit waaaay back and loved the results. Although I have heard that the deterioration process can still occur as Bob mentioned, I did not have the kit long enough to verify. 
Now I like using the paper corrugated. 
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Lynnb on April 01, 2020, 05:49:34 PM
This is my favorite type of kit, sooooo much wood. You're doing a great job.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 07, 2020, 05:42:08 PM
So far the hardest part of this kit was the construction of the small upper chute framing,,, very fragile, and the casting needs to be placed inside it, all while keeping things square.  I then placed the chute machine housing below and used the conveyor casting to get the position of it, marking the diorama base.  this kit needs to be built on the dio base in order to finish it. I make my base slightly smaller than called for, mine is around 10 inches x 16 inches.  I had to add some concrete footings to the canopy because without them a train car wont fit under the canopy,,, its still a tight fit side to side, I have some small gondolas in my fleet that will fit.  My kit does not have the grate casting that goes under the track- where the material would be dumped into the holding area below the hoist/conveyor house.... I think I will scratchbuild something..... the canopy framing is pretty straight forward but accuracy is key as the lower roof framing must line up exactly with the upper roof framing so that the conveyor can be inserted through them correctly. The photos show a lot of areas that need paint/stain touch up.... I always save my pastel powder weathering for when I am completely done and don't have to touch anything anymore.    hopefully I can get a good more done on this with my days off this week,,, being quarantined and all (best hobby ever for a guy like me who needs to stay home!)
thanks everyone for checking on my build thread!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on April 07, 2020, 07:38:38 PM
Very nice modeling Bob.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: sdrees on April 07, 2020, 08:06:18 PM
Very nice
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on April 08, 2020, 07:45:21 AM
Bob,
Nicely weathered wood, metal and corrugated.  Looks authentic. I grew up next to an abandoned rock quarry and this looks exactly like those old ghost structures we used to play in.  Our parents would have been horrified to know about our playground.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Lynnb on April 08, 2020, 08:33:00 AM
Assembling that chute would drive me up a wall, I'd be all thumbs.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 08, 2020, 01:30:24 PM
thank-you guys so much! it always feels good when other modelers like my work!
    I do like the way the metal panels come out using the etching solution, but it is a bit nasty to do.... as far as the rusting goes, I just dab paint on in a random way. If I don't like the way an individual panel looks, I just go over it again. The best thing in weathering techniques that I learned is to never use just 1 color. I think I put 4 or 5 rust colors on the panels, overlapping/ blending the colors in. I know a lot of people will critique things that are super heavily weathered, George Sellios talks a bit about this in interviews that he did on the old Keller videos, but he likes it and so do I. My word for what the FSM looks like, and what I strive for is "Hyper-realism".  I feel that when my models are detailed/weathered in an over the top way, they look more real. 
    As for the upper chute framing, the two sides are built flat on the drawing, but the difficulty came in when I had to connect the two sides with the cross framing, keeping in mind that the chute casting had to fit in-between tightly.  after fiddling around for a few minutes, I decided to glue the casting to one of the sides, let it dry, then glued the other side onto the casting, ensuring that things were square and in line from side to side. then I glued on the cross framing,,,, it sounds easy but believe me it was a bit difficult for me to do. when I was gluing on some of the cross pieces, of course I dropped the assembly onto the floor and it all fell apart! I'm sure that has never happened to anyone else, right!?  That is when I realized that this little assembly was the hardest thing that I had done on this project!
    So,,,, because I am enjoying this build, I've decided to go for building the FSM Coal Bunker kit- it has been nice to get away from clapboard walls and do framing/ board on board structures.
    I drove by this quarry structure, located in Malden Mass, almost everyday as a kid.... My father never wanted to stop there and let me out- I was fascinated by the building. Of course I didn't have a camera then, and when I got older I never stopped to take a bunch of photos. Its now torn down, and to quote the line from "The Road Warrior"- "Lives now only in my memories".... I want to try and replicate this look on the Coal bunker kit, but first I gotta finish the Rock Bunker!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on April 08, 2020, 02:54:26 PM
Those are great pictures of the Quarry Bob.  Love the colors of the wood and concrete supports.  Certainly worthy of trying to emulate both.  Thanks for sharing.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on April 08, 2020, 03:38:32 PM
You are doing some fantastic work on this great kit, Bob.  Looks like a lot of fun.

That's a great looking quarry.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 10, 2020, 04:54:40 PM
thanks for the positive feedback guys!
    the kit has the stair stringers printed on cardstock that need to be cut out. As much as I want to build the kit as engineered, I just didn't want to use the cardstock stair stringers, so I used wood ones from Rusty Stumps.  I didn't like the way the stairs met up at the top platform, so I added a lower beam to the upper platform and had the stairs attach to that, they are still pretty steep, but that's how the prototype has it.... I would hate to climb those stairs everyday!.   I know people always say that they hate doing rafter tails,,, I hate doing stair railings! 
    for some reason my kit was missing the casting of the grate that goes under the tracks for the pit that the conveyor buckets scoop up material.  I kept it simple as its hard to really see once the canopy is installed, so I just make a simple wood frame and laid some metal rod over it.  the track is hand laid,,, I don't know why I chose to make more work for myself, but I got it done.  the ballast is still wet in the photos.
   Next I got to finish the canopy, railings, upper level electric poles with wires, then move around to the back of the bunker.
Whew!

Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on April 10, 2020, 05:07:35 PM
Excellent modeling Bob.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on April 10, 2020, 05:13:05 PM
Looks great, Bob.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 11, 2020, 06:46:46 PM
nibbling away at things....
    getting the back platforms and roofs installed,, photos always point out where I need to hit wood with stain....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 12, 2020, 12:32:02 PM
More details added around the bunker,,,, more framing needed for the sides of the canopy. There is a lot of detail in the back of the structure- there are platforms next to each chute, plus a ladder, and a small roof above each one also.  I'm almost done with all of this. I need to finish the canopy roof, then on to the final details on top by the conveyor. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: deemery on April 12, 2020, 02:09:25 PM
Your concrete looks superb, I had to look carefully at the bottom photo to see it's a model.  The lettering also helps add to the realism.


dave
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 12, 2020, 03:36:24 PM
Thank you Dave! What better compliment can a modeler receive than to be told that their model doesn't look like a model!
    My go to concrete is Liquitex Stucco, sanded down after application.  stucco and concrete are a bit peculiar to model: too little texture and it doesn't look "real", too much and it looks fake and out of scale. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 12, 2020, 03:40:54 PM
the roof of the office is removable. with the flash on you can see the interior so far.....
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: jerryrbeach on April 12, 2020, 07:11:29 PM

Bob,


I have been following along but have neglected to comment.  For that, I do apologize.  This is simply beautiful.  I love everything about it from the amazing concrete to the realistic color of the wood.  Kudos, to say the least!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on April 12, 2020, 07:41:39 PM
Fabulous modeling Bob.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: S&S RR on April 12, 2020, 08:46:17 PM
Bob


This is some great modeling. Very well done.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on April 13, 2020, 07:03:14 AM
Bob, absolutely top shelf work. I agree with the other comments, and must add that your terrain work is equally superb.  The earth/dirt has that correct look, and the placement of the trash piles and old junk is very convincing.
--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Lynnb on April 13, 2020, 11:41:27 AM
Really nice work on the small details, rockwork color is spot on. Nice details in the Office.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 20, 2020, 02:07:24 PM
thank you so much guys for the wonderful feedback/ comments. I am very appreciative of all of you that have followed along my build thread and have been so kind in your critiques of my modeling.  I cannot say enough positive things about this kit, it is a great design, and there is so much modeling that comes in this small yellow box.  When you open up the box and see all these bags of strip wood, it is amazing how it all comes together to make this awesome structure. I tip my hat to George Sellios for providing modelers such as myself an incredible kit to build. To think that this kit sat unbuilt since I was a kid- just waiting for me to grow up, take possession, and then build her.  These kits are meant to be built, not sit un-opened on a shelf!!
    Here are some final pics,,,, of course I could spend a few more hours on touch up and extra detail, but this one is essentially done.  Don't mind the un-weathered train car....
   I took a photo of some of the tall weeds to show this cool technique that I picked up a while ago:  I put down some 4 mm static grass, and when that is dry, I brush on some glue to the top of the grass fibers and then sprinkle on some Noch flake leaves and a little fine brownish foam.  then I hit with hairspray after that has dried--- they look pretty good as leafy weed plants.
   
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: rpdylan on April 20, 2020, 02:08:36 PM
couple more:
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: deemery on April 20, 2020, 02:28:40 PM
Looks really good with the daylight outdoor lighting!!


dave
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Mark Dalrymple on April 20, 2020, 03:22:14 PM
Beautiful work, Bob.

I've really enjoyed watching this wonderful kit come to life.

Cheers, Mark.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: ReadingBob on April 20, 2020, 03:40:13 PM
Stunning!   ;D  Well done indeed Bob.  I can't really begin to say enough good things about how well this turned out. 
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PaulS on April 20, 2020, 04:47:19 PM
Bob,
I've been following along with your build and have to add that the completed structure is indeed stunning.  Well done and is quite impressive.  I really liked the overhead shot which really shows of your wonderful weather corrugated roofing and the opposing shingled roof.
Fantastic and thanks for sharing with us,
--Paul
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: PRR Modeler on April 20, 2020, 05:48:51 PM
Top notch modeling Bob.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Oldguy on April 20, 2020, 09:49:50 PM
Pretty fandamtastic.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Janbouli on April 21, 2020, 04:51:31 AM
Excellent great build  and so is your photography.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Opa George on April 21, 2020, 07:21:46 AM
This turned out beautifully, Bob.  Thanks for posting the build--lots of good techniques here.  The weathering is spot on and your scenery is superb.  Well done!

--Opa George
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Zephyrus52246 on April 21, 2020, 07:26:35 AM
Wonderful scene, Bob. 

Jeff
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Raymo on April 21, 2020, 07:36:07 AM
Looks awesome Bob. It could start loading cars at Ossipee Aggregate's today!
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: postalkarl on April 21, 2020, 08:19:56 AM
hey Bob:

Just beautifully done.

Karl
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: GPdemayo on April 21, 2020, 09:28:02 AM
Outstanding dio build Bob......impressive weeds.  8)
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: Lynnb on April 22, 2020, 03:03:42 PM
Fantastic final pictures, and the back drop looks so life like ;D
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: tom.boyd.125 on April 22, 2020, 06:57:05 PM
Bob,
Great modeling !
Thanks for posting all the reference photos in your build thread.
Tommy
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: SteveCuster on July 30, 2020, 06:08:34 PM
Looks great Bob. I built this one 20+ years ago and somewhere in a move it got damaged. I always think about getting another one to build again.
Title: Re: 2020 Build Challenge: FSM The Rock Bunker
Post by: sdrees on July 30, 2020, 09:39:30 PM
Bob,

The pictures are great, I had to take a second look to see whether it was 1 to 1 or .  Very nice job.