Model Car Challenge: Building a Car in 24 Hours

Doug takes us through his first 24 Hour Build, from how he prepared beforehand to his scratch building extra car parts in the last 30 minutes. He builds the Monogram 1:25 Porsche 904. Thank you to Gary Kulchock and friends for organizing this scale model marathon for all of us, the 18th Annual 24 Hour Model Build.
If you are curious about Doug's paint stands you can learn how to make them in this video: DIY Part Stands That Have Lasted 35 Years: • DIY Part Stands That H...
Here are links for some of the products Doug used in the build.
If you choose to purchase from the following affiliate links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Grabit Stix small parts placement tool and anything else from Scale Motorsport. Doug has been a fan of Matthew Wells' company for decades and highly recommends his tools: scalemotorspor...
Use the coupon code MODELCARMUSE to receive a discount on your purchase!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Panel Line Accent Color: amzn.to/494vE6O
Tamiya Extra Thin Cement: amzn.to/3SAWpbT
Tamiya Clear paints, clear X-22, yellow, orange. etc: amzn.to/3wcjyKj
Tamiya Acrylic paints: amzn.to/3SQAgrB
Dehydrator: amzn.to/3OJTFb1 (mine is the Chefman 5-Tray)
If you like our videos and want to help ensure we can keep making them, please consider becoming a Patron, and enjoy exclusive posts from Doug's Bench as our thanks, on our Patreon at: / modelcarmuse
Thank you to our tier 3 Patrons: Mark S. Gustavson, Attorney at Law; Frank Steffans, and James Rondos
Music from KZbin Audio Library:
Quincas Moreira - El Gavilan,
The Mini Vandals - Kick the Can,
Anno Domini Beats - Distance,
Slenderbeats - Royal,
The Mini Vandals ft. Mamadou Koita and Lasso - High Life,
Steve Adams - Ponte de Abril,
Bad Snacks - Puppy Love
© 2024 Model Car Muse. All rights reserved.
Thanks for watching!

[@ModelCarMuse]

If you like our videos and want to help ensure we can keep making them, please consider becoming a Patron, and enjoy exclusive posts from Doug's Bench as our thanks, on our Patreon at: www.patreon.com/modelcarmuse Thanks for watching!

[@codeman365]

I hope you say this, but are you a perfection when you build your model cars like your front driver side wheel is up and your back passenger wheel is down so it’s kind of like a teeter totter, would you fix that just to put on your shelf no-model car shows and do you know anybody from Alabama that builds model cars just wondering thanks

[@ModelCarMuse]

Yes, I would want to make sure it sat squarely on all four tires, even if it was just to sit on my shelf. A quick Google search found these scale model clubs, (I don't know them personally) you may find others online if these are not near you, or you could contact these clubs, they would know better than I: facebook.com/p/Magic-City-Car-Modelers, facebook.com/huntsvilleplasticmodelers/, www.phantomphlashers.org/

[@codeman365]

@@ModelCarMuse OK thanks also I got another question for future reference how old are make sure all four tires are sitting correctly like say for instance the frame is warped or something like that or how do you put your tires on Do you put them on the car and then turn it upside down so they will sit level or prop it up how do you handle that situation

[@ModelCarMuse]

@@codeman365 The design and production quality of every kit is different, you'll need a different strategy for each one, determined as you build. That topic is an excellent suggestion for a future video, thanks!

[@daviddale3747]

I'm glad I'm not the only one talking to myself as I build! (grin)

[@ianhoyt2638]

Doug, this video was incredible. I would watch you build models all day long. You are such a pleasant person to watch and listen to. I enjoy seeing how joyful you are when building or documenting models. Keep up the good work Doug!

[@ModelCarMuse]

Wow, thank you!

[@1Epicdoom]

The method used to close the can was awesome to see. I've always closed paint cans that way. My father, a painter by trade, used a rubber mallet and used to laugh when I stepped on the lid to close it.

[@MichaelKalb-vn6gg]

I'm welcoming the challenge of doing more early esoteric European cars and "Le Sarth" type racing cars. I'm usually a gasser/early hot rod kind of guy. But regardless, I really appreciate this build and you sharing it (as well as all your work).

[@onixfieroandscalemodelworks]

fantastic video doug. i have that kit in my stash. always liked the lines of that car. ive never been able to finish one in 24 hours,.

[@THROTTLEPOWER]

Nice video Doug always enjoy doing the 24 hr build challenge. 🤜🤛

[@jonmopar7917]

I’m watching this at midnight as I’m waiting for dry time between paint coats on my own build 😂

[@michaelhintzmikesminiature1812]

Nice build!!! I barely get the box open in 24 hours.... Thanks for sharing

[@KitchenTableScaleModels]

Great video Doug. Been building 60 years but learn something from every one.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Glad to hear!

[@deepjunkgarage]

Great video ! A 24 hour build is something that I absolutely want to tackle......a model car bucket list item if you will.

[@kipphawley4514]

It's very interesting and very informative and very cool to actually seeing something like this. Because I'm 60 years old and I've been always building models cars since the 70s. And lat, ly I've not been able to build any more models for this time around. But I know I will be trying to get back into the building models' cars. Keep up the great work.

[@stevehoulihan726]

What a brilliant little build, I need one to add to my already too many Porsches! It'd take me about 2 weeks to build that!

[@user-cr6oe6yv5x]

Nice start to a Saturday, breakfast and a model making video. Spray can finish looks great! Thank you for reminding us to have fun!!

[@ModelCarMuse]

I like your priorities!

[@jamesleson9728]

I really enjoyed being a part of your 24 hour build Doug! Keep 'em coming!!!

[@FranksModelWorks]

Beautiful work on a tight schedule, Doug! Uschi’s powders are a nice way to add some elegant metallic texture to a finish.

[@kevinhilsabeck8217]

Doug! You're Always an inspiration to me! From the cover of SAE 80 to your video closing comment... "You" are my Muse!! Thank you! 👍

[@ModelCarMuse]

Wow, thanks!

[@timkustom]

Beautiful video as usual. I'm really surprised you built your model standing up for so long. You could have saved that energy and possibly built two! 😅 Seriously, glad to see the behind the scenes of this one and hope it inspires others to take the challenge next year. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with next.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks, Tim, and thank you for chronicling your build for the community on your channel: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2OzlJqZismBh5o

[@davidwalker4426]

The 24 hour builds are fun especially with planning. I have done about a dozen and not been as calm as Doug for most of them. More recently I have been able to get 6 or more hours sleep though. Nice video.

[@modelcarvideos5829]

What a satisfying video Doug!! What a clean build for such a short amount of time.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Glad you enjoyed it. It was fun! You in for next year?

[@modelrestorations]

Superb Video and Build Doug! Thanks for sharing. What are you using to pick up the tiny pieces? Extremely impressive what you did in 24 hours.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Glad you liked it, it was fun! Grabit-Stix, small parts placement tool from Scale Motorsport. There is an affiliate link with a discount in the description under the video.

[@davegoose]

Very Nice build. Your organization always makes me jealous!

[@thescalemodelcarguychannel8681]

Doug you killed this build and you made it look easy!! I built this kit and it was very hard mine had bad warpage, but I made it turn out alright and looks good setting on the back of my vw transporter truck. Jeff Elliott is a great guy ❤😊

[@modelmartin]

That kit has held up well. It was originally an Aurora kit from mid 60s! Your build looks great!

[@WhatsJasonDoing]

Really enjoyed watching you build, Doug! Great work

[@KarlScaleModeling]

Fantastic work, not easy to work round the clock like that. Well done 👍🏼👍🏼

[@beachboy61]

Great Video. One of my all time favourite racing cars from Porsche. Greetings from Germany

[@MarkBatsonHobbydude007]

Awesome!! Well planned and executed Doug! VERY nice looking model!!

[@LeftCoastModelCarBuilds]

Sweet build and great video on how the build went, thank you!

[@GaryKulchock]

Excellent build Doug and well documented. Thank you so much for joining in with us and putting together such a great video.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thank you, Gary, for your years of organizing this. You and your team do a great job and inspire us all.

[@artyfarty87]

Thank you for sharing your skills with us, Uncle. The car looks Fabulous. You did a great Job. PS: LOOOOOVE your workshop!

[@ModelCarMuse]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@ScaleAutoGarage]

What an amazing work space you have. So cool to see this kit built. I've been wanting this one for some time now and you aren't doing me any favours! Now I just want it even more. Amazing build. Thanks for sharing.

[@chrisfloyd4210]

Just absolutely amazing. Thank you for all your amazing videos.

[@scottcolmer8735]

That was just fun! Great model, great video, Doug

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks, Scott!

[@bobtalbot7060]

just a great build and a great start to the new day thanksfor your effort😊 Cheers

[@JHartModelworks]

Very cool. Just what I needed, another tool to want 😂🤣 Now I need to go find a dapping tool.

[@marcosfernandeznanita7150]

that was super fun, someday i will pick an easy kit to do a 25hrs group build. thanks for sharing Dog

[@ModelCarMuse]

Hope to see you on the 24Hr Build next year! You and your son can document it for your channel.

[@marcosfernandeznanita7150]

@@ModelCarMusethat’s a wonderful idea, thanks

[@theintake8961]

Nice build Doug! Thanks for the tips and tricks. 😎👍

[@michaelcooke2559]

Very nice video. I really appreciate you filming your progress during this very fun event. I was involved as well, but I did not finish in time. Better luck next year. Thanks for sharing.

[@frankwhittemore9149]

I enjoyed the video very much! Car turned out very nice. Thank you for another great video. Have a great day.

[@coalhouse_walkerjnr4735]

Very entertaining and informative. Thank you very much!

[@KustomKreation10]

tuned out great

[@ronalddrain8033]

Nice build. I like your approach to the project. Above all, have fun !!

[@modelcar1589]

24 hours group build 👍🏿 awesome job 🎉

[@blueoxmodelshop3405]

Awesome job my friend!! When I built this kit last year for Chucks Porsche GB I struggled a bit with mine. Thanks for sharing your experience!!

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks, Jason. I remember seeing that build, you did a good job!

[@blueoxmodelshop3405]

@@ModelCarMuse thanks 😊

[@bkmodelcars]

Nicely done Doug Turned out awesome

[@themodelingchick1463]

That was a great video! And a great build. Really enjoyed and thinking of joining in on the 24 hour build next year.😊

[@timcarson8146]

Nice job Doug! This year was my third and my wife's first (and her very first model ever). Already planning for 2025! Liked and subbed

[@ModelCarMuse]

Wow, first model and she chose a 24 hour deadline, that's brave! I think those '40 Fords are a good choice for the 24 Hour Build.

[@fredfrumos8129]

This is an excellent result! Wonderful car! I've signed up!👍👍👍

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks and welcome!

[@BluestreekCustoms]

Very cool build my friend, I wanted to do the 24h build, but something came up, I'll do it next year. For now, I'll just keep building the stuff I'm doing and post it on my channel. Keep up the great work sir.

[@williambarrett3538]

Terrific build! And a favorite of mine from back in the day. I don't know of too many builders that would add extra detail on a 24 hour build. Please bring it to the 24 Hour Build table in Wayne this Spring. And how nice of your son (I assume) for staying up to film with you. Also, I like the double gooseneck lamp on your bench.

[@ModelCarMuse]

Hi Bill, I've never done straight box stock! I'll make a note to bring it to the NNL East in Wayne, NJ this Spring. Actually, James was out of town, Giovanna gets credit for recording this one, and, as usual, editing, with James as Quality Control. The double gooseneck lamp is actually a grow lamp I use for seedlings!

[@goforitpainting]

Professional as always 👍

[@kevinhuber8723]

Thanks for this video, loved the format.

[@jesseortega8598]

Great Job on your Build.

[@nicholasbcleghorn8008]

Great build. Educational too.

[@billgiltzow4464]

That mold will be 60 years old soon. It was state of the art then.

[@ozahmed4523]

A pleasure to watch.

[@thebeardedguyjefflawless5887]

Amazing build Doug 👏

[@neilreddick3062]

Well done!

[@trevormyrus7981]

Great video, would like to see more build videos.

[@ModelCarMuse]

We're planning on it!

[@bobbyosborne2375]

Nice set up you've got.

[@dongallowayjr3435]

Beautiful build

[@osvaldosantos63]

Fantastic!

[@Builtbyronny]

Great job 👍

[@kamkwong1829]

Fantastic Porsche 904

[@F8Tributo]

Kudos! 👍

[@KitchenTableScaleModels]

Great video. Proud to be a Patreon supporter.

[@ModelCarMuse]

We very much appreciate your support!

[@zyphod74]

Would love to see more build videos from you

[@ModelCarMuse]

Planning on it!

[@shadowthecannibal2366]

I busted open a kit at 6pm yesterday and started it went to bed at 4am woke up 8am started it again hopefully finish it by this mid afternoon lol

[@anfieldroadlayoutintheloft5204]

Cool video nice build thanks lee

[@DarksouIjah]

Awesome job... just subscribed

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks and welcome!

[@Merylstreep1949]

Funny to think as a kid in the70s, I'd build three kits over a weekend, so this concept isn't so hard lol😊

[@edminas3159]

exquisite

[@jeffyoung8726]

Thanks again Doug, for this inspiring video! Question: How did you get those parts to stick to the swab?

[@ModelCarMuse]

Those are not Q-Tips, they are Grabit-Stix from Scale Motorsport. There is a link with a discount in the description under the video. I use them all the time.

[@mikedelaney5564]

Thanks for your time doing these videos. What did use to attach headlight lenses. Thank you. Mike

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks! I used 2-part epoxy to attach the fog lights, and Tamiya Clear to attach the headlight covers.

[@calvincooley1074]

Awesome

[@modelscarslaboratory9216]

Nice ❤

[@LoPigs-q8e]

nice video and nice way to reproduce the work done. honestly, given how much time you take for every single detail, i highly doubt you really put 24 h of actual work into it. especially considering the modification to the bodywork. in any case, a good attempt...

[@kenmorris2858]

Fantastic build and a very interesting video. Can I ask what do you put on the end of the qtips to be able to pickup and place those small parts? Many thanks from Nova Scotia...

[@ModelCarMuse]

Those are not Q-Tips, they are Grabit-Stix from Scale Motorsport. There is a link with a discount in the description under the video. I use them all the time.

[@dustinrossi9384]

Sweet

[@cherylferguson8561]

When that kit was on the shelves I never bought it. I thought it was a reissue of monogram's slot car. Is it the aroura kit?

[@ModelCarMuse]

The kit I used was Monogram, 1991 release. I don't know if it originally came from Aurora.

[@c.d.scalemodels9198]

Hey Doug, Chris here……by any chance would you happen to know the brand and/or size of the photo etch mesh you used for the stacks on top of the engine? I’d like to try that myself but not sure what PE to use since I need to order online & it’s difficult to determine that without looking at it in person…… thanks

[@ModelCarMuse]

Hi Chris, I have a lot of PE screen and just pulled a sheet from my stash. It did not have a label or brand name on it, not sure what it was! Too tiny to tell a size.

[@c.d.scalemodels9198]

@@ModelCarMuse no worries at all…. I thank you kindly & I hope to see you this Saturday in NJ

[@billmcevoy241]

Hi, Doug ,. Would you be able to do a feature on the Studebakeryou built, this car has been a muse for a lot guys. I would love to know the story behind the build, and any techniques

[@ModelCarMuse]

Thanks, there are plans to do so!

[@jerryalvarez1713]

What can I buy that dehydrator

[@ModelCarMuse]

There is a handy Amazon affiliate link in the description under our video. Mine is the Chefman 5-Tray, but I did cut the middle out of one of the trays to gain height for car bodies. I save the cut-out to use in my paint booth.

[@chadbarbaro]

my builds are more like 24.....weeks!

[@TJsModelBench-jb4xt]

Wow! I don't think I would have finished with such a good looking model after 24 hours. The screen that fell off didn't look as good as the one that replaced it anyway. Happy accident. Peace and love.

[@bjsteg79]

Doing the 24 hr build again this year? (2025)

[@willyjimmy8881]

The music was just too much man, too too much.

[@saratoga123321]

Idk…clock shoulda started the moment the shrink wrap came off the box…

[@ModelCarMuse]

The parameters for this one were different but what you suggest would certainly be an interesting challenge.

[@bdanyluk]

How about 24 minutes ? that would be a much better challenge

[@robertmann7277]

When I was a kid I would build 'em like that, my parents would unload the groceries and I would see if I could beat them

[@normrussell4346]

The music's too loud and too much

[@walterwinterberg3652]

Why You kill an interesting video with such an awful music ?!😢

[@RepublicanJesusthe2nd]

The window glass seemed thick.

[@PedroSantos-bw2ww]

Too scientific for me, basic is better, its basic!

[@modelcars2978]

🤓👍