Another way to fix gaps with filler putty!!!!

[JimVarnellABH2USN]

I had encountered a problem with a resin kit, I had sanded the base of the super structure flat and smooth but there where still areas that did not sit flat against the hull surface, knowing various tricks to fix this problem, using "white glue, putty, CA" just about all the normal tricks. Well putting thought into how to approach the issue I was remembering an old carpentry tip my dad showed me,

1. Locate the areas that need attention and mark them with pencil.
2. Put the filler putty on the bottom of the piece to be joined to one another.
(Tamiya putty works best as its more liquid then most)
3. Place thick CA where needed, as it allows a bit of working time for you.
4. Place the parts together and clamp them hard to force the putty out the edges, and remove the excess before it completely sets.

This trick allows for the most minor clean up without a bunch of sanding and distorting any fine details.

Example of the clamping process.

Note the fine filler putty line between the bridge and the flying bridge top.

[Geoffjay17]

In relation to filler putty:

I purchased an old 1977 Revell USS Independence and she needs a lot of updating. I've removed and replaced the port and starboard gun decks on her bow and given her a smooth hull (as she was in the 80's, forward phalanx platforms to be added later). The gaping holes were replaced with spare plastic and the cracks filled out with putty. After sanding it came out very nicely, however their are tiny tiny imperfections that even 1500 grit don't seem to get out, as if the putty is crumbling around the edges and in tiny pits. On a larger build this may not be such an issue but I'm worried that primer won't fill or hide these imperfections. Anyone got any ideas?

(PS pictures can be posted if you would like, I don't currently have an image hosting site.)

[Vladi]

Hello Geoffjay17,
FWIW I am using either Mr. Dissolved Putty or slightly dilluted PVA glue for such purposes. Both allow removing excess e.g. by a brush before set. The liquid putty is better if you need to sand it down afterwards.