Now that your XP-RAPTOR is assembled it is time to
add the finishing touches. Some modelers view model
finishing - sanding, painting, and decaling as torture.
Finishing enables you to bring out your personal
signature or expression. There are many different
finishing techniques that can be researched and
implemented. The internet is full of web sites containing
model finishing techniques and we encourage you to
explore.
How your XP-RAPTOR is actually finished is entirely up
to you. Some rocket enthusiasts may finish their XP-
RAPTOR using our original color scheme, while others
may add their own flare (no pun intended) by using a
rainbow of colors. However you decide to finish your
XP-RAPTOR the point is to finish it!
The following steps will illustrate how to finish your XP-
RAPTOR using our original paint and decal scheme.
Finishing
1.
r
To finish your Raptor start by ensuring all glue
fillets are in place, all plastic flash or mold bumps are
removed from the plastic nose cone, any rough balsa
edges are removed, and any nicks are repaired.
Review the instructions and recheck all glue fillets, fix
any problems. Using 220 grit sandpaper lightly sand off
any remaining plastic flash or bumps on the nose cone.
Use a sanding block and 220 grit sandpaper lightly sand
balsa areas and remove any rough spots. Seal balsa
areas as necessary. Check the Transition Cone seams
and Fin Bulkheads and Retro Rocket joints. Repair any
nicks using hobby putty and then sand smooth. Be
careful not to over sand any area. Take your time. The
time you spend on this step will be the greatest
contributor to your final finish.
BE DILIGENT AND
THOROUGH!!!
16
Lightly sand off any
plastic flash or bumps
Lightly sand Primary Fins
to remove any rough edges
Lightly sand Secondary Fins
to remove any rough edges
Ensure glue fillets
are applied to
Launch Lug Assembly
Ensure glue fillets are
applied to Primary Fins
Ensure glue fillets are
applied to Secondary Fins
Check slip fit of
Main Nose Cone
sand if necessary
Ensure Launch
Lug is open
Protective
Plastic Sheet
Move Spray Can
quickly to avoid
paint runs
Lit
e
Gr
ay
Pr
im
er
WARNING - ONLY USE AND APPLY SPRAY PAINT IN
A WELL VENTILATED AREA AND NEVER NEXT TO
OPEN FLAMES!!!
3.
r
Purchase White or Lite Gray Primer from a local
Hardware or Hobby store. Set the rocket over a sheet
of plastic to protect your work surface and make sure
surrounding work area won't be affected. Apply an even
coat of primer to the entire rocket. Keep the spray
moving to avoid runs. Let primer dry throughly and then
apply a second light coat. Again let primer dry and then
lightly sand using 300-400 grit sandpaper. Repeat
coats of primer and light sanding until you are satisfied
with the coverage and overall finish.
2.
r
Study the illustrations on page #2 to understand
the paint scheme of the Raptor before moving forward.
Note you will be painting the Transition Cone using
traditional masking and painting techniques.
It is important to allow paint to dry properly between
coats. Improper drying time can cause previous paint
layers to crinkle and/or peel. Follow the directions on
the spray can regarding drying times.
