Estes Saturn V

I had all but given up hope of ever getting the much converted re-release of the Estes Saturn V kit. I'm not going to hoard it or resell it at a big profit. I'm going to build it and fly it. Hopefully everyone else in the club that wants one will be able to get one.

That's what I had in mind for mine...

FedEx delivered the Saturn V kit to my house on Christmas Eve. I have since looked at the contents and the instructions. This kit does not look easy to build. This is more than three fins and a nose cone. It has vacuformed wrapping and requires different kinds of adhesives. Has anyone ever worked on something like this before?

Yes I have... the original Centuri Saturn V and the Estes "2157" Saturn V (most recent release prior to this one) was a lot like this one. both are a major PITA to mask thanks to the details. The original Estes Saturn V had embossed paper wraps which you used normal glues on. You had this big wrap around that went on the rocket after painting and you used a stick pin to mark out the detail placements. Then you trimmed the wraps in places and glued the details on. Upside? Easier to paint... downside? You need a steady hand!

For the wrappers I suggest Scotch photomount permanent spray adhesive. The Centuri Saturn came with capsules of contact cement. You *could* use that. Scotch photomount is easier to apply in a uniform layer and is esentially the same dang thing.

Just remember... this is a labor of love, Frank, not to be taken upon lightly! I'm finally finishing my Centuri Saturn V more than 40 YEARS after the initial assembly. I just spent 4 HOURS masking the S-IC-S-II interstage and decals. It's getting it's main coat of paint tomorrow. (Centuri has you paint it black first because masking is actually EASIER!!!!)

After reading the instructions I thought that maybe I should have waited for Apogee to release the Zephyr. LOL. It just might take me until the 60th anniversary of the Apollo 11 launch before I finish this kit. Maybe you can help me out over the next two winters. Ha Ha.