View Full Version : Molding or casing plastic parts


Rolo9th
06-05-2008, 10:30 AM
I recently acquired a dual pit stop structure that is in pieces, but fairly complete. I have always liked the look and layout of the item, but as you all know, finding them is difficult and they go for astronomical prices on E-bay when they do come up. Since mine is dissasembled, I was wondering if I could make molds of the base plate, 2 side walls, back wall, center divider, and roof to create my dream of having another 5 or so of these garages for my future layout. I have never cast anything in my life, am a total chemistry novice, and don't even know if it is possible to do what I want to do. Any thoughts?

On a side note, I wonder how come no one has ever re-produced these and the Revamatic bleachers/grandstands? Seems like a sure moneymaker, as these items seem to be in demand and are very useful for layouts. Even if you just made the grandstands static without the useless sound board, it still seems like these would be snapped up by guys like me looking to add realism to their tracks. I seem to recall that years ago Model Motoring was supposed to follow up on their curved bleachers with the dual pit stop, but I guess it fell through. Bummer.

coach61
06-05-2008, 01:56 PM
sure ya can, I did grandstands a year or so back, frightfully expensive to do a mold of. what I do is pour any excess resin in it and when its full pop it out.. heavy monstrosities but with a coat of paint no one will be the wiser.. I actually have a pit stop all apart for that same reason so go ahead.. its a great idea..


Dave

ScottD961
06-06-2008, 12:35 AM
Hey ! Make some to sell ! I have been looking for that kit for ages . I wouldn't count on mosel motoring, they took a lot of there stuff off of there website

Rolo9th
06-06-2008, 07:07 AM
I have never molded anything in my life, so I am a total newb/fish out of water here. If I can cast reasonably decent parts, and am happy with the results, and if it is cost effective, I wonder what the legalities would be of offering them for sale. I'd assume resin would be the casting medium of choice since it seems to pick up very small details quite well, but from having built resin model kits before, I know there are a LOT of issues with warping of parts, especially long ones, when the resin cools. However, warm water soaking and straightening can cure a lot of that.

Still, I am getting ahead of myself. First I need to figure out how to make my own versions before I'd even consider offering them to others.

Anyone have any experience casting things that they would care to share?