Fanhome supplies everything needed to build the model, but I have put together a list of items that I found that improve the experience. These are just suggestions, there is no need to do it exactly this way.
Work Space
This model is going to take a long time to build, so having a good work space to assemble it is important. I created a dedicated location with a small table and laid down this reversible self-healing 24×36″ craft mat by Arteza:
Arteza 24″x36″ Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat
The reverse side that I used here has a nice off-white background with a 1/2″ grid, imperial rulers, and is big enough to cover the entire model.
Screwdriver Set
Along the way, a few basic tools are provided along with the parts. However, I found that these tools are not that great, so instead I used this precision screwdriver/tool set by ORIA:
ORIA 86 in 1 Precision Screwdriver Set
This set has many other useful tools such as different sharp-point tweezers, razor knife, magnetizing block, pry tools, etc.
Another screwdriver set I picked up is fantastic, but it does not contain any of the other tools. This is the iFixit Manta Driver Kit:
Organizer
This model is assembled using hundreds of tiny screws. The screws are marked with designations like DS02 and PS04. As there will be many types of plastic screws (starting with P) and die-cast metal screws (starting with D), keeping them organized is extremely helpful. And, since extra screws are included in every issue, you will need someplace to store them all.
I bought a cheap 36-slot organizer from Amazon but any similar product would work fine. I taped the small designation labels included with the screw bags into each compartment to keep everything tidy.
Lubricating Oil
I still recommend pre-threading all of the metal holes with the correct screw before attaching things into place. This simply involves driving the intended screw into each hole and removing it before actually fastening anything together. The screws are made of harder metal than the die-cast parts so they should create threads in the metal. This will make the actual connection straighter and easier to use.
However, a complete game-changer for installing metal screws is to pick up some 3-in-One Multi-Purpose Oil and add a tiny bit to the tip of each metal screw (or into the hole). Using this oil, the metal screws go in much easier and will rarely bind, break, or strip.
Custom Modifications (Mods)
If you plan on modifying your ship, you may want to look into some of the many mods available to us before you start building.
See my MODS page for details.
The Community
Finally, there are a lot of other Fanhome 1:8 scale Eleanor Mustang partwork model builders online where you can learn more about the kit, build tips and tricks, videos, ask questions, and join discussions. Don’t be a stranger, we are friendly!
YouTube Channels
I found a few YouTube channels that are a great presentation of the build and may help provide insight into what it takes to build this model:
Official Die-Cast Club Assembly Videos
The Makers Cave
Steve Willans in the US is building the Eleanor Mustang on his channel from a beginner’s perspective. He even modded the Front Bumper to make all the lights work. They are a great watch!
Facebook Groups
There are also Facebook groups dedicated to the build. There is a ton of information and help to be found. Some of the groups I visit are:
Build the 1967 Eleanor Mustang by Fanhome – Partwork Central
Next Up
Kit 1 – Front Face, Headlights, Small Headlights, Fog Lights