92 Ford Thunderbird: A Challenge Worth Taking On

The Round 2 92 Ford Thunderbird is a model kit that requires patience, skill, and dedication to build. As I began working on this project, I was immediately struck by the challenges that lay ahead. The body lettering, for instance, had weak molding that needed to be replaced with decals. This was just the beginning.

The dashboard, door panels, and firewall all required significant modifications to fit together properly. The sides of the dashboard had to be shaved down to ensure a snug fit, while the front of the door panels needed to be shortened to accommodate the firewall's shape. These adjustments were crucial to achieving a smooth, seamless finish.

The interior, unfortunately, presented even greater difficulties. The parts had serious fitment issues that made it difficult to line them up with the body and lower frame. The windshield was particularly problematic, as it required extensive bending and sanding to get it to sit properly in place. A generous amount of glue was also necessary to keep everything secure.

In recent years, Round 2 has faced quality control issues that have resulted in warped and twisted parts. This kit was no exception, with several pieces needing careful manipulation to achieve the desired shape. Despite these challenges, I was impressed by the level of detail achieved by the model's designers.

Compared to the original 1962 annual edition of this kit, the interior and frame components were noticeably better in the Round 2 version. The body, however, may have been superior in the earlier kit – but who can afford to spend money on an old, fragile original?

In the end, building this 92 Ford Thunderbird was a rewarding experience that tested my skills and perseverance. Fresh off the workbench, I'm proud to show off this beautiful model, even if it did require a bit more effort than expected.

92 ford thunderbird