Hello fellow model car aficionados!
I’m excited to showcase my latest project: a meticulously crafted 1964 Pontiac Bonneville convertible model. This build, much like my previous submissions, is a testament to kit-swapping, extensive modification, and scratch-building techniques, resulting in a unique and highly detailed replica. Every aspect, from the chassis to the meticulously crafted 1962 Model Pontiac Bonneville Friction Model Car Parts Tail Light lenses, has been carefully considered and executed to enhance realism.
The foundation of this model starts with a Moebius 1962 Pontiac Ventura chassis and engine bay. Recognizing the Ventura’s shorter wheelbase compared to the Bonneville, the chassis was carefully stretched by approximately 3 scale inches to achieve accurate proportions. Scratch-built elements, including sections of the exhaust system, rear shocks, and E-brake lines, were integrated for added detail. The stance was widened, and the front suspension was converted to a functional, steerable configuration. A realistic, subtly weathered finish was applied to the undercarriage and engine bay, depicting a well-maintained, yet regularly driven, classic automobile.
The engine bay, also sourced from the Moebius kit, houses an engine largely derived from the Revell ’66 GTO kit. A notable modification is the conversion to a single 4-barrel carburetor system, utilizing the intake manifold from the Revell ’68 Firebird kit and a Fireball Modelworks AFB carburetor. Extensive detailing includes complete wiring, plumbing, belts, and linkages. A scratch-built, removable 3-piece air cleaner assembly further enhances the engine’s realism, alongside other scratch-built components like the engine valley pan, oil filter, wiper motor, coil, starter relay, dip stick, breather cap, heater blower cover and fresh air actuator, and transmission linkage. Engine brackets were also scratch built. The front frame rails were filled, inner fender detail was added, and the fan blade was thinned for improved scale accuracy.
Body modifications are abundant and meticulously executed. The headlights and reflectors were drilled out and replaced for greater depth and realism, and the door handles and locks were also replaced with finer details. Crucially, the tail light lenses, a key feature of the 1964 Bonneville, were scratch-made to ensure accuracy and clarity, resembling authentic friction model car parts. Thin .007 tinted replacement glass with realistic seals was installed, and a scratch-made antenna and chrome fuel door and boot snap moldings were added to complete the exterior refinements. The windshield opening was carefully configured to conceal the glass edges, employing a friction fit method combined with thin glass and realistic interior A-pillar covers for a seamless appearance.
The interchangeable boot and uptop are skillfully modified pieces sourced from other kits. The boot originates from a Monogram ’59 Impala, while the uptop is adapted from a vintage ’62 Buick Electra kit, demonstrating resourceful kit-bashing techniques.
The interior received an extensive overhaul. The floor was taken from the Moebius kit, while the seats and dash were modified from the original AMT kit. The door panels were completely reworked, with original details removed and replaced. The ribbed portions were recreated using ribbed plastic stock, and all trim, armrests, window cranks, courtesy lights, ashtrays, and the rear speaker grille were replaced with more refined components. The seats were reshaped, with new bases and backs for the front buckets, and chrome seat “buttons” added throughout.
The dashboard underwent significant modification. The ribbed brightwork and gauge pods were replaced, along with the dash knobs and trim. Added details include a dash-mounted tachometer, vent knobs, an e-brake pedal and release handle, and a dimmer switch button. The steering wheel began as the transparent part from the Moebius Pontiac kit, enhanced with scratch-built spoke trim, a center hub, and a horn ring. Further interior enhancements include opened defroster vents, a scratch-made 4-speed shifter and boot, homemade floor mats and sun visors, and an open ashtray complete with a half-smoked cigar, adding a touch of character and realism.
This project, encompassing numerous modifications and scratch-built components, demanded a considerable amount of time and dedication – nearly a year and a half to bring to fruition. I hope this detailed overview provides insight into the extensive work involved in creating this 1964 Pontiac Bonneville model. Thank you for taking the time to examine my work!
