Fine Molds Millenium Falcon: spare parts?

[Filandrius]

I know this is a long shot, but my FM MF had an accident, and the cockpit's window frame is busted and I'd need a replacement. Beside buying a whole other model just to use that part, what are my options? Any help would be very appreciated!

 

[JMChladek]

Did you bust the cockpit frame for the windows without glass or for the windows with glass? Reason I ask is you can always opt to go the other direction and put glass in when you weren't planning to originally since the glass option means a whole new set of frames molded into the clear pieces. At the very least, it would mean your Falcon would be complete in a slightly different state until you either manage to repair the original part or can source a second one.

 

[Clerval]

From time to time you can get replacement sprues from manufacturers or distributors... I'd send a few emails out. Some will charge for the sprue, others will not, but it is always less than buying a second kit would be. Airfix is fantastic about this sort of thing, I imagine Fine Molds may be. Provide kit no., sprue no., whatever you can.

 

[Filandrius]

To clarify: I busted the frame without glass (I didn't use the clear parts) I thought about simply painting the clear part and use it on the cockpit, but I would prefer to replace the current part. Anyway thanks for the tip!

Nice tip about contacting the manufacturer... I could even reference the exact number of the part I'm looking for (I don't have the sprues anymore, but I still have the instructions) At this I wouldn't mind paying for the part or the sprue. Thanks a lot!

 

[Filandrius]

I'm out of luck: turns out that HLJ had a complete part-ordering service for all the kits they sell. Emphasis on had because the earthquake kinda threw a wrench in the works. I've tried to contact a few other distributors to know if I could order the correct sprue (which is the "G" one, btw) I also thought about contacting Fine Molds directly, but the only website I can find is 100% Japanese. :confused

 

[Scratchy]

Can you post an image of the damaged part. Maybe some of us can offer up some repair advice.

 

[Filandrius]

I'm not at home right now, so I can't post pics. As for the damage itself, let's just say that it's not just broken: my cat ate it. Yes, it sat beside the Falcon and started chewing on the cockpit' frame. So the parts are mangled and some of them are missing. Yes, the cat is still alive.

 

[Scratchy]

Well, I would have to agree with everyone else,.... contact the manufacturer and see what can be done about receiving a replacement part. However, a custom "Space Slug" costume for the cat may be appropriate too.

 

[JMChladek]

Another possibility I can see might be if someone who decided to build their Falcon with glass windows might be willing to sell you the frame only part. Although it seems as though most of the Falcons I have seen built tend to be without the glass for a more studio model appearance.

Good luck in trying to source the part. I know in Japan it is possible to purchase extra parts trees as each instruction sheet includes instructions (in Japanese) for how to do that. But to my knowledge, that can only be done in Japan. So to do it, you might need to network with a Japanese resident to do it (i.e. have him order a tree on your behalf, then ship it to you when he gets it). Thankfully, I believe the canopy tree is a small one, so it shouldn't cost all that much to get.

BTW, if you intend to name the cat something different, how about "Mynock"?

 

[Filandrius]

Yeah, the canopy frame is on the "G" sprue and it's a small one, only a few parts on it. I only have to source someone to sell it to me now!

"Mynock" is clever, since it's the only living thing to actually damage the Falcon during the trilogy.

 

[crackerjazz]

...the only website I can find is 100% Japanese.

We have a resident Japanese-language expert - Katsu-san a.k.a yuumi2891103. Send him a PM about that webpage - he might be able to help you.

 

[Sixth Element]

It would be tedious ,but you could cut the "Glass " from the clear part.Drill holes in the corners of each window pane ,and use a razor saw to cut between the holes,then clean up with needle files.Tedious but doable.

 

[Keiko]

I'm building mine with "glass"...if you pay for postage, you can have my spare "frame only" piece. I'm in Edmonton, Alberta...

PM me to chat more and set it up.

Cheers,

-K.

 

[reaper63]

Another long shot but is anyone not using the Figures that come with the Falcon? I'd be willing to purchase them.

thanks,

 

[Clerval]

reaper, when would you need them? I'll most likely be building without them, but I rarely get to storage these days. If it's not for a bit and the need's still there, I know I'll be that way before long.

filandrius, sounds like you've got things covered, but for future needs, try to keep in mind that some of these companies can be great for this kind of service. Had forgot that hlj's wonderful but yes, the service had to be re-thought with what they've gone through.

 

[Filandrius]

Great tips everybody! And yes, I'll keep in mind that ordering individual sprues is certainly possible with most companies. It's just bad luck that it happened recently, because if it happened last year I would've ordered the parts I need from HLJ and that would've been it. Thanks a whole lot everyone!

Oh and Keiko: PM sent.