Brabham BT50 1:20

I started this one a couple of years ago but for some reason it got put back in the box. Time to get it out again methinks.



I sanded, then sprayed the 'Tub' with Alclad aluminium but it came out like this:





So I clear coated and sprayed the aluminium again:





The engine and trannie so far. Lots of boring satin black but it will get a bit of tarting up before installation:





Thought I'd have a go at the BMW lettering on the injectors air box but even with the finest Molowtow pen (1mm) I still screwed up. Not wanting to break apart the engine to re-do the black, I masked up and sprayed again:



Then I approached it again with a cunning plan. LOL. I decanted some from 4mm pen and applied it with a fine brush.







It's incredible to think that this 4 cylinder, inline 1.5 litre (90Cid) engine produced 1350bhp in qualifying trim (boost turned right up) and 1000bhp in race trim, (boost lowered) and weighed the same as a Mk1 Mini at just 590kg.

I added various bits of 'plumbing', including the fuel lines and injectors. (made from copper wire)



Looks like I'm going to have a fit problem. This is going to be the best fit of the bodywork, without gluing it down.



However, if I do glue it down, 90% of the engine detail won't be seen........... UNLESS I cut across across the shut line of the engine cover!!! Oh boy!! Decisions, decisions........... but it's got to be done. Too much effort into the engine, not to do it. Could all go Pear shaped but hey ho!



I went ahead and cut it and what a tough cut it was. Not delicate, I mean actually hard work.!!!

what year was that raced?

1982 Paul.

Since the decals are quite badly yellowed I have ordered a fresh set from Indycals. So it's going back into the box for now.

They were nearer to 1500 bhp in "grenade spec" for qualifying, it just about manged a fast lap. Amazing power.

Good old trick with the clear over metallic Al, looks good.

You are correct Shay. I was being conservative about the power.

It was the most powerful F1 car ever. AND all that power came from the 1.5 litre block of a 4 cylinder 80 bhp Beemer road car of the time. (albeit with the Turbo) That's 1000 bhp per litre!!!!! Amazing