what to look for when buying a partially build ship

[flanker27]

Hi,

Looking for some pointers here as I dont build ships. Planning to buy a partially build Yamato, from the pics it looks like about 60% build. What should I look for when checking the model?

 

TIA

[Rich in name only]

Hey!  Sorry no one got back with you sooner.  I have not been on site in well over a year.  Look at the assemblies----did they paint before assembly? Do a good job? Correct colors?  Are there areas that will be visible but can't get to easily to finish or correct painiting?    

Can you find instructions, maybe online?  Print off the instructions.  Go through them marking off each part that is visible in the assembly---use pencil; some parts are easy to get mixed up.  Some parts may not be visible that were attached (e.g. turret post caps) or left off (ie turrets fall out).  

Then look at photos of the remaining parts---mark off all that you find.

I prefer to look at the instruction steps first 'cause the parts tree IDs and shapes can be hard to make out on the instructions.  But look at them too and cross off what you find.

In addition, or alternativlely, decide what you do NOT want to scratch build and see what needs replacement.  If it's going to be more work than you want to put in, or not worth the hopefully lower price of the kit then skip it.

Hope this is helpful and not too late.

[flanker27]

Thanks for the reply, I decide not to go for it. Too many small parts off sprues and I have no idea whats there and whats missing.