Tips for using RB Productions harnesses

[R Palimaka]

I'm about to assemble my first set of harnesses from RB Productions, the 1/24 USAAF set. I've studied the instructions and finally figured out the sequence, the drawings are quite good actually.

 

The instructions say not to use PVA glues as it will stain the paper belts, and suggest stick glues like "UHU". But I see below in some threads that others have used white glues and even CA with good results. Could I use something like Weldbond, or perhaps canopy glue in tiny amounts? They'd have to be tiny amounts, some of the belts are microscopic...to my old eyes anyway.

 

And any suggestions for toning down the shininess of the etched metal parts? Spray with a thin matte coat first?

 

I was also thinking of staining the belts a bit to reduce the newness. I guess I can experiment on the spare bits around the pre-cut belts.

 

Sorry for all the questions, just starting up the learning curve.

 

Richard

Edited July 14, 2017 by R Palimaka

[Bill_S]

Richard, if you try to dull the PE parts, I would recommend that you do it while they're still on the fret. I've not use Radu's belts before; my experience is with HGW sets. I've heard of soaking the belts in brewed tea - I did that on my Corsair, and I was pretty pleased with the results. Try it on some scrap material before you commit, though. I've also learned to thread the belt material into the PE while it's still attached to the fret - it will minimize any small pieces from flying off into nether-regions!

[R Palimaka]

See, this is why I love this place! Thank you Bill, those logical suggestions are not things I would have thought of, and will definitely make things go more smoothly for me.

[Radub]

There is no need to soak The RB Productions strap material in anything. The material is malleable and easy to work with.

Please note that the straps seldom got raggedy and filthy (they were replaced if they got frayed or stained), so keep the weathering to a minimum. 

I may have to double-check, but I am quite certain that I DO NOT advise against PVA in the instructions. Indeed, I DO advise against CA. However, I strongly recommend any type of white glue, PVA or any glue intended for paper. Wellbond sounds perfect.

The buckles can be dulled-down with a light coat of matt varnish. 

HTH 

Radu 

[R Palimaka]

Thank you Radu, that clears up all my questions. I had just intended to make them look a little less new, and I'll experiment with some minimal weathering on the scrap material from the sides of the sheet. Looking at the harnesses on other builds, they certainly look more the part than other aftermarket harnesses. That's my Saturday afternoon project, and then fitting them to the seat.

 

Thanks,

Richard

[dennismcc]

Here are my tools for making up the RB seatbelts, I've used them on my last 3 builds and hope to use them on my next ones, they are great, I just need to grow another hand. I use PVA based glues ,in the case below I used Formula 560.

And my third hands

 

Cheers

 

Dennis

[Zero77]

I use the Pacer formula 560 too, and always got nice result. The straps are still soft and flexible (that's exactly why you must not use CA).

For the final arrangement on the seat to get a realistic result, i wet the straps a bit with a brush and they instantly get softer and keep the position when they dry. Very easy to use.

 

I used some PE and i dislike, i used HGW belts and they look nice but not perfect in my opinion (a bit out of scale, or more difficult to weather), but now the RB belts are on the top of my list and i use them everytime i can.

[R Palimaka]

I have a bottle of the Formula 560, so I'll try that, and your other tips Zero77. Thank you! My seat is ready so I'm going to give them a try now.

 

Richard

[Shaka HI]

I use 560 as well. It's like a "super" version of your usual generic white glue!

[thierry laurent]

I generally use CA gel sparingly to glue such belts. It is thick enough to stay out of the fibers but glues quickly and efficiently. However, you have to be cautious as white glue is more forgiving for sure!