How does one scratchbuild wheels? Especially those that have complex tread patterns? Making layers of sheet styrene then cutting it in a circle is tedious - and the circle ain't perfect. Anyone has ideas to share?

I am not sure that anyone would want to Scratchbuild a wheel. I am more than sure that a person would buy a set of resin ones, or use the wheel from some other kit.

~Chip :-)

The trick is to cut the separate plasticard sheet circles FIRST (use a compass for that : replace the pencil by a pin or a sharp knife). Once the circles are already cut to size, sandwicht them together to form a wheel. Fill up any rims with milliput or other filler. Then you can scratch the hub details.

If you have a dremel tool, it can be used as a mini lathe to some extent, but it is kind of difficult. I make one wheel this way, then cast replica's. The tread is just something you have to carve.

Rob

Thanks for the tip! Yes, just making one wheel and casting is what I have in mind - but won't this be a bugger if the tread is bi-directional (just like the Humvee's)?

General Failure - I see, so do the circles first BEFORE stacking them up.

And oh yes, they'll be flat so how will you curve them up (i.e., curving towards the hub)?

Thanks for the input so far!

If you have a master, look at my Alumilite info in this forum. You can make one or two-piece molds, real easy and make as many replicas as you want.

Sealhead (Kansas Sunflower)

Got a drill press??? try one of these:

It's a Circle cutter meant for wood but it would work on plastic too.

Before casting wheels, I have to ask... "How many do you need?"... the reason I ask is that casting one or two pieces often costs more in terms of the price of RTV than simply buying some in the form of an exisitng kit!