project: Honda RA272 #3

For the 2nd phase of the engine build, the valve cover and 12 carburetors were painted and attached.  I used some artistic license and painted the valve cover XF-7 flat red with X-18 semi gloss black bolts.  Not period correct, but "Honda" correct as a tribute to their future sporting motors.  The carbs are a combination of X-10 gun metal for the base and X-11 chrome silver for the velocity stacks.

This kit has a realistic 12 header exhaust system, which is beautiful, but a bit of a PITA to work on.  It was sanded and painted in X-18 semi gloss black.  I used a 1/32" drill bit and hand drilled exhaust openings at the tips.  I drilled in about 1/4" which is more than enough for a realistic look.  I did not have a pin vise, but the plastic is soft enough to just spin the bit with your fingers.  Just go slow, support the exhaust tube with your fingers as they are easy to break, and always start with a pilot hole to guide the bit through the part straight.

A nearly complete engine with drive shafts, frame, cooling tubes / hoses, and exhausts assembled.

happy 2012!