FALLER 1/350 IJN Battleship Nagato Special Set A Model Kit Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This instruction manual provides detailed guidance for the assembly, care, and maintenance of your FALLER 1/350 IJN Battleship Nagato Special Set A model kit. This highly detailed plastic model kit allows for the recreation of the Imperial Japanese Navy Battleship Nagato as it appeared in 1941. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning assembly.

2. Safety Information

Warning: This model kit contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 14 years of age due to choking hazards. Adult supervision is recommended for younger builders.

• Always use appropriate tools for cutting and shaping plastic parts. Exercise caution with sharp blades and tools.
• Work in a well-ventilated area when using glues, paints, and thinners. Refer to the safety data sheets of individual chemical products for specific handling instructions.
• Keep all glues, paints, and small parts out of reach of children and pets.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying plastic fragments or chemical splashes.
• Dispose of waste materials responsibly according to local regulations.

3. Package Contents

Your FALLER 1/350 IJN Battleship Nagato Special Set A model kit includes the following components:

• Plastic model parts (on sprues)
• Detailed instruction manual (this document)
• Decals/Transfers for markings

Note: Paints, glues, and modeling tools are not included and must be purchased separately. Refer to the instructions for recommended types of adhesives and paints.

4. Assembly Instructions

Building this model requires patience and attention to detail. Follow the numbered steps in the included assembly diagrams carefully. It is recommended to dry-fit parts before applying adhesive.

4.1. Tools and Materials Required (Not Included)

• Plastic cement (liquid or tube type)
• Hobby knife or sprue cutters
• Sandpaper or sanding sticks (various grits)
• Tweezers
• Small files
• Paints (acrylic or enamel, as per color guide)
• Paintbrushes (various sizes) or airbrush
• Masking tape (for painting)
• Decal setting solution (optional, but recommended)

4.2. General Assembly Steps

1. Part Preparation: Carefully remove parts from the sprues using sprue cutters or a hobby knife. Trim any excess plastic (flash) and sand smooth any nubs left from the sprue attachment points.
2. Dry Fitting: Before applying glue, test fit parts together to ensure proper alignment and fit. If parts do not fit well, gently sand or trim as needed.
3. Gluing: Apply plastic cement sparingly to the mating surfaces. Hold parts together firmly until the glue sets. Allow sufficient drying time before proceeding to the next step.
4. Sub-Assemblies: The model is typically built in sub-assemblies (e.g., hull, superstructure, turrets, aircraft). Follow the instruction diagrams for the recommended sequence.
5. Painting: Refer to the included color guide for recommended paint schemes. It is often easier to paint certain sub-assemblies before they are fully attached to the main model. Apply thin, even coats of paint.
6. Decal Application: Once paint is dry, apply decals according to the placement guide. Use water to slide decals off their backing paper. Decal setting solutions can help decals conform to irregular surfaces and eliminate silvering.
7. Final Assembly: Attach painted and decaled sub-assemblies to the main hull. Add small detail parts and rigging (if applicable) last.

4.3. Visual Reference: Completed Model

The following images illustrate the completed FALLER 1/350 IJN Battleship Nagato model, showcasing its intricate details and overall appearance. These can serve as a reference during your assembly and painting process.

Figure 1: The fully assembled 1/350 scale model of the IJN Battleship Nagato, presented on its display stands. This view highlights the overall structure, main gun turrets, and the distinctive pagoda mast.

Figure 2: An overhead perspective of the completed model, emphasizing the detailed deck layout, secondary armament, and various deck fittings. The wooden deck texture is visible.

Figure 3: A detailed side-front view of the battleship model, showcasing the intricate superstructure, main turrets, and the two-tone hull painting scheme.

Figure 4: A full side profile of the assembled Nagato model, illustrating the complete hull design and the distribution of its armament and deck features.

Figure 5: A direct front view of the model, highlighting the bow section, anchor chains, and the forward main gun turrets, along with the base of the pagoda mast.

Figure 6: A detailed close-up of the midship section, showing the secondary gun batteries, boat davits, and other intricate elements of the superstructure.

Figure 7: A close-up view of one of the smaller anti-aircraft gun turrets, demonstrating the fine detail present in the kit's armament.

Figure 8: A detailed shot of the distinctive pagoda mast, showcasing its multi-layered construction and various observation and fire control positions.

Figure 9: Another close-up, this time focusing on a secondary gun mount and its surrounding deck details, including railings and deck equipment.

Figure 10: A detailed view of the massive main gun turrets, showing the gun barrels, blast bags, and the texture of the turret armor.

Figure 11: This image provides a close look at the searchlights and other small, intricate details on the upper levels of the battleship's superstructure.

Figure 12: A detailed shot of the aft deck, featuring the aircraft catapult and the floatplanes positioned for launch, complete with their distinctive markings.

Figure 13: An even closer view of one of the floatplanes, highlighting its individual details, propeller, and national insignia.

5. Display and Handling

Once assembled, your IJN Battleship Nagato model is a static display piece. Proper handling and display will ensure its longevity.

• Always handle the model by its base or the main hull. Avoid touching delicate parts like antennas, gun barrels, or rigging.
• Display the model on a stable, level surface away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and high humidity, which can cause warping or paint degradation.
• Keep the model away from areas where it might be accidentally knocked over or damaged.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance will keep your model looking its best.

• Dusting: Gently dust the model regularly using a soft, dry brush (such as a makeup brush) or a can of compressed air. Avoid wiping with cloths, as this can snag small parts or scratch paint.
• Cleaning: For stubborn dust or grime, lightly dampen a cotton swab with plain water (no chemicals) and gently dab the affected area. Avoid rubbing.
• Repairs: If any parts become detached, reattach them using plastic cement. For paint chips, touch up with matching paint colors.

7. Troubleshooting Common Issues

8. Product Specifications

• Brand: FALLER (Manufactured by Hasegawa)
• Model Name: IJN Battleship Nagato 1941
• Item Model Number: HAZ24
• Scale: 1/350
• Material: Plastic
• Product Dimensions (L x W x H): Approximately 25.59 x 4.33 x 11.81 inches (65 x 11 x 30 cm)
• Item Weight: Approximately 3.03 pounds (1.38 Kilograms)
• Number of Pieces: 1 (refers to the kit as a single item, not individual parts)
• Recommended Age: 14 years and up (Manufacturer recommended age: 18 - 18 years)
• Special Feature: Customization with paints and glues, accurate scale model, detailed instructions, and included decals.
• Release Date: October 20, 2007

9. Warranty and Support

For any questions regarding missing parts, manufacturing defects, or assembly challenges, please contact the manufacturer, Hasegawa, or your retailer. Specific warranty details may vary by region and retailer. Please retain your proof of purchase.

For general modeling tips and techniques, numerous online resources and communities are available to assist model builders of all skill levels.