Started off with the AMT California Peterbilt and mated it with the AMT Big Rig Semi Trailer. Both kits had a fair amount of casting flash but not a big deal. Goal in mind was to make a beat up tired setup.
After initially assembling the chassis, noted it was warped. Had to massage it to straighten. Other minor issues were the instructions aren’t the most clear as far as the rear axles/brake chamber locations. Also there are no hood hinges which is a little disappointing. So not a super fan of the kit, but I think it turned out well.
Into the trailer……this kit just sucks. Lots of fitment issues and seam filling needed. The tires are rock hard and I couldn’t get the rear door/hinges to co-operate. I ended up gluing the doors closed. Instructions are only marginally better than the truck.
Anyway, I used Tamiya acrylics for all the colors and ACE house brand MATTE clear. Just so happens the clear reacted with the Tamiya and actually improved my beat up, faded look. This was my first real attempt at weathering and other than the rear of the trailer, I think it turned out well. This is headed to the NOVA show, so we’ll see how it does.
– Jeff
Shenandoah Valley Modelers 
That’s a good lookin’ truck Jeff! Good luck at NOVA with it. The weathering came out rather nicely; most trucks I see on the highway are not that dirty/beaten up since truckers have pride!
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Jeff, that came out great! Amen to every word about these kits shortcomings. I really would like to see AMT or Round2 or SOMEBODY do better with these old castings. I hope you are coming to the April meeting as I will bring my low rider version of this truck so we can compare notes
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