What kind of glue to use with horizon model kits

[gaga4toyz]

What kind of glue should I use for my horizon model kits?

[Mikey]

Is it vaccuformed ?

If so I used to use regular Testors

That was 20+ years ago --- not sure if they changed since then

[gaga4toyz]

I believe they're made of some type of vinyl. I remember reading that regular glue won't work. Not sure what kind to buy.

[Mikey]

I believe they're made of some type of vinyl. I remember reading that regular glue won't work. Not sure what kind to buy.

Yea, if it's vinyl absolutely do not used regular Testors.

Once I put together an old vinyl Japanese Robby the Robot kit ... I think I used crazy glue.

[Random Axe]

The best stuff I use is Loc-Tite super glue. Use the control gel in the blue squeeze bottle. A little goes a long way and it doesn't run. THe liquid version is terrible, so avoid it. Use gel.

Scott

[gaga4toyz]

Thanks guys. Where can I get the loc-tite gel?

[Hector]

So you are getting ready for that Surfer, eh?

Here you go...

MODEL FACTS:

Name: Silver Surfer
Manufacturer: Horizon
Year Manufactured: 1989
Year Built: 2002
Paint: Krylon Sterling Silver (spray paint)
Primer: Model Master Gray
Putty: Squadron Green
Glue: Zap-a-Gap

Silver Surfer

Remember, these models also need putty to fill in some gaps...they are a bit more complicated than regular plastic models...but once built...they can't be beat.

Here are some info I gathered for you on how to trim vinyl, filling seams, sanding, kinds of glues, etc...

Modeling Techniques - Construction - starwarsmodels.com - The Star Wars Model Kit Gallery

[Random Axe]

Thanks guys. Where can I get the loc-tite gel?

I don't know if you have Kroger groceries in your area, but that's where I pick it up. I think they also carry it at Michael's. I use that stuff for everything customizing wise, so I have no doubt it'll work for you kit, Jason. Very nice product.

[Random Axe]

Let me know if you can't find it, I'll send you some.

[megojim]

Home Depot carries the Loc-tite brand as well

[ctc]

Hmmmm....

Ordinary superglue will work quite well. If you have a hobby shop nearby you can get special glue for vinyl, but it's not that much better than superglue. (Not enough to worry about.) Make sure you wash the kit first: warm water and some dish soap'll remove any mold release still on it. (That stuff'll screw up the glue.) Also; get a hairdryer. It can be used to soften they vinyl before you cut it. Always use a fresh x-acto blade too; it's easy to slip with a dulling one, and wreck the kit. Or your hand. Epoxy putty is good for filling gaps, although contour putty will work too; if the gaps aren't too big.

Don C.

[Bo8a_Fett]

Zap-a-Gap is great for most modelling, i've used it with all kinds of plastic, resin and photo etched metal parts in kits...you can get it from most model stores and it comes in different thicknesses...do be careful though as some glues especially the polyethylene ones work by melting then welding the plastic together...if it is a vac form kit or very thin it could ruin it.