'61 Falcon Gasser

[afx]

I’m really struggling with completing my builds but no the less I’m starting another project. I bought this AMT ’61 Falcon as a builder. The rear fenders were damaged from previously installed skirts and one of the vent posts was broken. Rather than try to repair the post I just removed the other one along with all the body trim and emblems. The chassis is from the Trumpeter Falcon, which with a bit of work fits rather nicely.

[afx]

I used the Trumpeter kit door panels as a template and traced them out on .020" flat stock. Added some reinforcing on the back side to increase the stiffness. Fabricated a simple bulkhead at the rear.




I cut open the hood and removed the windshield wipers. The glass had a nasty tire melt mark on the driver side along the top edge. I was able to sand/polish most of it out.

[robhart]

I've always thought those 1st gen Falcons were naturals for the gasser treatment.

[dustymojave]

I have a '61 Falcon Promo that came with my '61 Falcon when my grandparents bought the car. But by 1970, the acetal plastic it was molded in had warped so it looks like a dolphin leaping out of the sea. It stopped there and still looks the same. I have a couple or 3 of the Ranchero kits, but I'd like to find another kit of the sedan like you got here JC. I'll build it as an A/Sedan road racer. Some day...

Car Craft magazine back in the late 60s used a filler picture from down low front of an early Falcon Gasser (or Modified Production class - but "gasser" to most everybody these days) with a forged beam axle on leafs, no hood or radiator and injector stacks standing tall. It was painted metallic teal and the front valance (no front bumper) was chromed. I still retain that image in my brain.

[afx]

Yea I have one of those banana shaped bodies too. Using the suspension from the Revell '41 Willys.  Here is the rear mock-up.

[robhart]

It's starting to look the part.

[afx]

Thanks Rob.  Front suspension mock-up.  Haven't yet found rear wheels I am happy with.

[afx]

Think I found a rear wheel I like.




Added some mounting pins to the front springs and axle.

[robhart]

Please don't put a Chevy engine in it.

[afx]

Jan 6, 2018 11:19:15 GMT -8 robhart said:

Please don't put a Chevy engine in it.

Never!!

[afx]

Made some motor mounts to get tilt back on the engine.

[afx]

Fabricated a front valance and added more detail to the core support.

[afx]

Roll hoop.

[afx]

Fabricated a set of headers.




Settled on the wheel choice.

[afx]

Resin door handles and window cranks from R&M.  Some twisted wire as a pull handle.