First time posting over here, and wanted to share a current project and share some tips I've stumbled into.
These are Matchbox/Hot Wheels conversions. Scale ranges across 1/76 to who knows what.
When I started this project I did a lot of hunting around for ready-made conversion kits. I didn't find any that I particularly liked; they were either the wrong look or too expensive. Here's what I am using instead:
1. Warhammer 40k bits. These are the wrong scale, but can still be useful. Backpacks and torsos actually make pretty cool engines and stowage. Chaos and Orks are the most helpful.
2. 1/76 military vehicles. These are too small for most things, but chopping up the individual pieces can produce a TON of available parts. For £5-6 you can get a lot of parts, complete with rivets, panels, detailing, etc. I have used a couple Airfix models and haven't run out of bits yet.
3. 1/76(1/72) scale stowage kits. These are also pretty cheap and give a lot of options. Value Gear has some great stowage sets (not attached yet, in pictures).
4. Wire screen from old strainers. Found at charity shops £3 gives you more wire mesh than you will need for a fleet of cars.
5. Paint stripping: Detol takes EVERYTHING off, which is great. I regret being so through, however, because now I don't have texture under the primer. I will be more selective on the next batch.
6. Painting: My plan is to paint these as is, and then add detailing afterwards. I still need to find a good source of weapons.
So here's some WIP pics:





