1/16th scale Fordson F

[LesTindall]

Just purchased a 1/16th scale Universal Hobbies die-cast Fordson F which I want to take apart and paint strip in preparation for weathering. I've tried some dismantling of it but have come to a halt as I am worried about damaging it, does anyone have experience of trying to dismantle such a model?   
Les T

[Chuck Doan]

I found the Danbury Mint version used a few hidden screws for the metal parts and glue for a number of the smaller pieces. You will probably find that many of the smaller items are plastic. I was surprised to find the bottom of the radiator was glued to the engine block. The rear hitch covered some screws and the gear shift housing covered the screw for the engine halves. I don't know if this was made by the same factory. I didn't have too much trouble with the glue joints.

Pry carefully! Hope this goes well!

[LesTindall]

Thanks for the info. The Universal Hobbies tractor was made in China.  I have tried the obvious locations, the Danbury Mint tractor seems very similar in assembly- found the plastic bits. It looks as though it was assembled and then sprayed (thickly!!!). I'll keep trying!
Les T

[Chuck Doan]

The Danbury one was made in China as well. I found the paint took a bit of work to strip, especially the red. The plastic was an odd material, kind of a translucent whitish color.

[LesTindall]

Hi Chuck
what paint stripper did you use? Was it Nitro-Mors? which is the usual one we get over here in the UK. Apparantly (according to Barney) that will not affect the "plastic" bits.

Les T

[Chuck Doan]

I can't recall Les. I used something strong for the metal parts, and maybe brake fluid for the plastic ones. The model car forums have many approaches to plastic stripping. I'm going to need to do this again on my new project eventually.