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Lots of fun working up this project. A 1955-1957 era McDonald’s Drive In. I started with aa MTH Original McDonald’s which is a rather nice model and very accurate, if I can pull the toyness out the toy train accessory. Let’s see what we can do!

The original MTH as it comes out of the box.

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Complete with frosted windows and a light bulb! Surprised there are not any silhouetted figures in the windows.

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After being completely disassembled entirely with screws, the model starts to show its yearning for full detailing. Counter tops, ceiling, back wall, menu board, and floor can all be made from styrene.

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Looking at the prototype I needed to to accomplish some painting upgrades.  I used stainless from Gunze Mr Color and polished it for the windows. Repainting the roof and all the details are also required.

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When replacing the glass, leave one or both of the order windows open.

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Next up the new sidewalk foundation.

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Carefully cut to exactly the same dimensions found on the MTH foundation. You can still use the slot and grove system for the installation but on a far more authentic concrete surface. The arrangement of the building and signage are not correct on the  MTH foundation.

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(C) photo copyrights apply

Parking areas surround the sign and a walkway comes straight out from the order windows. Also note the concrete parking stops that can be made from styrene.

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Prototype photo shows the correct arrangement.

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Test layout shows a successful recreation.

Detailing can be accomplished in time such as light fixtures and interior furnishings. I decided this time around to install some uniform attendants from Artista.

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Even with these minor tweaks the MTH original Mcdonald’s is and excellent structure that will be the focus of conversation for years to come.  It is also a cool place to display my 1/43 and 1/50 die cast and resin car collection!

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Still on the agenda…lighting.

Anybody for a burger and fries?

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