Dinky 192 - De Soto Fireflight

 

As Bought:

Was a bit dissapointed in this purchase. It doesn't look too bad from this picture but in fact it was quite a mess.
It looks as if it had been jumped on and the rear of the roof was bent down causing the two rearmst struts to be broken off. The next 2 struts inwards were also bent to a U shape. Luckily, the windows have survived although there is a small crack in the rear.
The base is also red rusty as if it had been in water. This must only have happened recently as it has not had time to pit the metal - hopefully it will clean off.

Restored:

Once stripped down I also realised that the 2 reat window struts were missing.

The body shell was warmed and the roof gently knocked back into shape. I think it is still a bit lower than it should be but I was frightened to push the bending too far in case it cracked. New window / roof supports were then fabricated,soldered in place and given a final shaping.

After repainting in the original turquoise green and tan, the base cleaned up and repainted black and a new set of tyres it looks fairly presentable.

 

Up one level