How to Remove a Model Airplane From the Stand
How easily you can remove a model plane from its stand depends on how it was attached. Cements made specifically for styrene plastic model kits join the parts through a chemical reaction that "welds" the plastic in a bond that is difficult to break. Super glues require more steps, but the connection separates more easily. It is usually possible to get a model airplane off its stand without substantial damage, but some cleanup and repair might be necessary.
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Things You'll Need
- Hobby knife
- Dental tool or similar scraping tool
- 1-ounce bottle of CA glue debonder
- Container of acetone or fingernail polish remover
- Mild cleanser
- Rags
Instructions
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Plastic model cement
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1
Slowly start working the hobby knife around the connection between the stand and model.
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2
As the gap between the model and the stand widens, employ the scraping tool for greater leverage, slowly separating the parts. Gently rock the plane with your hand to further weaken the connection.
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3
Continue until the plane separates from the stand.
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4
Determine what repairs, if any, need to be made.
Super glue
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5
Place the model in a freezer for about two hours. Remove it and see if the super glue bond has been weakened enough to allow the model to separate from its stand with gentle pulling and rocking. If so, proceed to step 8. If not, continue to step 2.
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6
Put a couple drops of CA glue debonder around the connection between the model plane and the stand. Minimize contact with paint and decals.
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7
Slowly start working the hobby knife around the connection between the stand and model.
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8
Apply more debonder if necessary, but keep it to a minimum. Allow small amounts to flow into the hard-to-reach area between the plane and the stand.
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9
Continue working with the hobby knife and scraping tool to separate the parts. Gently rock the plane with your hand to further soften the connection.
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10
The plane will eventually come free of the stand. Continue working slowly and gently until it does.
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11
Use a small amount of acetone or fingernail polish remover on a rag to wipe off debonded super glue. Wash off acetone with a cleanser and water.
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12
Determine what repairs, if any, need to be made.
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1
Tips & Warnings
You can accomplish most repairs to model airplanes separated from their stands with fine-grade sandpaper, a little fresh glue, modeling putty and paint.
Connections between styrene plastic parts soften over time, so the older the model, the more readily it will separate from its stand. However, the plastic will also become more brittle and will break more easily.
Small children should not work with hobby knives, dental tools or CA glue debonder. Older children should be supervised by an adult.
It may be impossible to separate a model airplane from its stand without substantial damage, particularly if a strong styrene cement was used. If it is a major struggle to begin the job, reconsider the task.
CA glue debonder helps soften super glue between styrene parts, but an excessive amount will also strip paint, destroy decals and damage plastic. It is important not to spread it beyond the area connecting the model plane to its stand.
