Yamato Macross 7 1/60 VF-11C Out Now
 

This toy got damaged the 1st time I transformed it. I demanded for a replacement or service but I was redirected to a shop that specialized in fixing toys. My initial quote was 80 SGD for a fix. A parts replacement would cost 100+ SGD excluding shipping. I said screw that!

Here's the damage and how I fixed it.

The Problem

http://img532.imageshack.us/img532/2766/fix1u.jpg
Locking tab easily broke on the 1st transformation. My hunch. Because the flashing on the plastic was not trimmed properly, there was excess tension on the tab causing it to lock tighter. With the plastic being brittle, it easily broke off during release. Note that this tab is molded on the fuselage which is the most important part of the toy. To replace the part requires disassembling the main body of the figure.

http://img576.imageshack.us/img576/4955/fix2.jpg
http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/1777/fix3.jpg
The consequence of that small locking tab breaking off is a nosecone that easily bends on the slightest push.

The Fix.

http://img576.imageshack.us/img576/188/fix4.jpg
I used grade A non fast drying industrial steel epoxy for the job. I initially roughen the part where I applied the epoxy. I had the epoxy shaped to resemble the broken-off tab.

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/6179/fix5.jpg
After 24 hours, I trimmed excess epoxy to accurately replicate the original tab's proportions.

http://img532.imageshack.us/img532/6029/fix6l.jpg
It locks perfectly, securing the nosecone.

The "Fix" was a success. The epoxy holds well and feels more resilient than the plastic.


WEWE COLLECTION

Welcome aboard man! Glad you were able to save money and fix the 11C on your own. Thanks for sharing the fix!