Battlestar Galactica Mod

[Boddaker]

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BSG_title.jpg

Time to start on my next project! :D And this time I thought I would include you guys in the progress. I feel I have missed out by not tapping the wide expanse of knowledge that exists on this forum. And with this next project I will be exploring new ground, so I will need all the help I can get!

This is going to be a mod based on the SciFi series, "Battlestar Galactica." I plan to mod my CM Stacker 830
in the style of the Galactica. I'm still in the design and conceptual phase, and I hope to get it drawn up in Sketchup soon.
I will post more detailed pics at that time.

I think this will be a fun one to do! I really enjoy the new BSG TV series, and it has many elements I can draw from for ideas.
And this case will be a huge canvas upon which to work, so there will be plenty of real estate to work with.

Not really sure how I will be able to work on this once my garage gets torn down, but I will figure something
out when the time comes. I'm just itchin' to start something new! :D

8)

[Boddaker]

Ok, some long-awaited pics. :D I messed around in Sketchup, and after many, many long late-night hours I came up with
a VERY rough mockup of what I'm planning for this Stacker case. I tried to retain alot of the original lines of the case,
so you could look at it and know this used to be a Stacker 830. Its lines match up so well with the Galactica, I think it adds
to the overall look (not to mention makes my job a lot easier!). So without further ado, here are the pics! (yeah, like you actually
read this whole thing before looking at them :P )

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Concept1.jpg

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Concept2.jpg

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Concept3.jpg

The top of the case will have the launch bay running through it from front to back, and the landing strip will be lit up on the inside.
The front will sport a 7" lcd monitor (A Boddaker first!), and the BSG insignia below it. I have special plans for that, and you
will have to wait and see (couldn't divulge all my plans first off, that just wouldn't be much fun :P )
The sides will have vertical ribbing to match the top launch bay, with the centers being the armor plating. (retaining the stacker's
side vent shape). There will be four engines, two on each side that will function as either fresh air intake, or exhaust. Haven't
decided yet. I apologize for the crudeness of the engines. Sketchup was not willing to cooperate with me when trying to create
complex curves (as evidenced from the top launch bay). So I cheated a bit and stole the engines off of an existing Galactica
model I found in Google's 3D Warehouse. But I think you get the idea.

I'm still hammering out the details, and don't have a clue what I will do with all that room on the inside. I do know that I am
going all out and doing a full-on watercooling setup! :D (Another Boddaker first) So all you l337 WC gurus be prepared
to answer a ton of questions!

So there ya go. As always I welcome all your comments and criticisms. I am now off to watch more BSG episodes (got all of season 2 the other day :) )

8)

[simon275]

Dam that is a cool Idea. I wish I could come up with something like that. Go for it!

[Zephik]

Woah, nice job man, that is a killer sketchup!

Looking forward to the fabrication stage of your project!

[TheGreatSatan]

I thought of making a Cylon Baystar theme, but I'm at least a year away from concept.

[Tale Gunner]

Nice drawing. Looking forward to seeing some construction. I know how long you can sit and do drawings trust me. I have a complete construction drawing detailing everything I looked at and considered prior to going to construction.:)

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys, I hope to get started on it soon. Now comes the part where I have to figure out materials and construction procedures. I have an idea of how to easily get the rib effect without having to physically make them all individually. I'm thinking for the top launch bay, I can create the basic dome shape out of foam, then apply a thick coat of putty or sculpy or something, and use a notched trowel to form the ribs. I may have to make a trowel if I can't find a suitable one at the tile store. I will have to experiment with it to see if it will work or not.

[Boddaker]

I actually managed to start on this today! :D Been doing most of the work on paper, trying to figure out the best way to build it,
especially the top landing bay, as it will be the most complex and detailed part of the case.

So what's the first thing that you gotta do when starting any case mod?
That's right- Disassemble the donor case!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Stacker1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Stacker1.jpg)

After taking some measurements, I set off to what's left of my garage to cut a pattern for the foam out of 1/8" fiber board.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB1.jpg)

I made up a simple jig with a piece of alum flat bar. Traced my curved lines on both sides so they are symmetrical,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB2.jpg)

And cut out the pattern.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB3.jpg)

Set it on the case for fit,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB4.jpg)

And proceeded to cut the foam using the pattern and a long bladed knife.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB5.jpg)

Cut two pieces. These will be glued together, and glued onto the fiber board as well.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB6.jpg)

Sorry, that's all I got done tonight. But at least I started! After gluing, I will commence the cutting, shaving, trimming, and slicing
of the foam to the landing bay shape. Once the basic shape is attained, then I can coat it with resin or fiberglass.
Although I have been eyeballing this stuff called Plasti-Paste (http://www.smoothonsecure.com/store/index.php?cPath=291_1_8&osCsid=edc0f602fc9f3d57d2a07e18e641b3a1) by Smooth-On. It's a trowelable fiber resin that cures into a durable
plastic in just 90 minutes. It would be ideal for making up the landing bay top, and all those ribs too. I would just have to work
in sections, what with its 10 minute pot life and all. :wink:

8)

[Drew]

Made a start?

Good lad.

Gonna be a good 'un.

[Boddaker]

I hate it when work gets in the way of modding! :x

Well, I didn't get as much done as I had hoped this week, but I will post up what I did get done last weekend. I plan to get more done tomorrow to make up for it though. :)

Anyway, here are the carving pics. Snagging the electric turkey carver from the kitchen (shhh- dont tell Mrs. Boddaker! lol),
I started shaving the foam down to the landing bay shape.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB7.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB8.jpg)

Then I took the drywall sander and rounded the sides smooth. And yes, I was wearing a respirator the whole time.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB9.jpg)

Then I hacked off the ends, and marked the eventual openings.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB10.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB11.jpg)

Since that Plasti-Paste has just a 10minute pot life (length of time you have to work with the stuff before it sets up),
I cordoned off sections with strips of cardboard held in with brads.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB12.jpg)

The Plasti-Paste comes in two containers: One with the fiber reinforced paste, the other a liquid. Mix the two at a 3:1 ratio respectively.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB13.jpg)

I mis-judged the amount slightly for my first section, and had a bit left over. So I spread what was left over the other half.
You can almost watch the stuff set up. It changes color from the dark brown paste to the light yellow plastic within minutes.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB14.jpg)

Here you can really see the color difference between the first hardened section and the one I just laid down.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB15.jpg)

Completely cured and ready to sand smooth. I actually messed up and forgot to smooth it out more before it set up.
Now I have more sanding work to do. :x
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB16.jpg)

Also because I didn't smooth it out adequately enough prior to it setting up, there are numerous divots that I will have
to fill in as well. I might just bring out the bondo for that, since the plastic is so hard to sand.
I plan to finish this layer tomorrow so I can move on to the fun part - the ribs!

8)

[SgtM]

Lookin good. +rep

[DaveW]

Good to see you keeping a worklog at TBCS Boddaker! You always do great work and i'm looking forward to seeing how this one turns out. :)

-Dave

[Eclecticos]

Great Concept Design. I can't wait to see the finished product.

[ChevronX]

Looks excellent. Good job and luck!

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys.

Made decent progress today. :)

Got the whole thing sanded down pretty well with the drill and sanding discs, followed by the orbital.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB17.jpg)

Then I layed on a skin coat of bondo to fill in the low spots, and sanded that smooth. You can really see how uneven it was.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB18.jpg)

Lastly, I filled in the tiny air holes with the glazing putty.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB19.jpg)

Since this is the bottom layer and will be topped with all those ribs, it doesn't have to be sanded down perfectly smooth.
My main goal was to get these pronounced lines on each end.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB20_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB20.jpg)

Sprayed a light coat of primer on to get a uniform color.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB21_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB21.jpg)

And demolded the piece. I was careful not to ruin the foam because I still need it.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB22_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB22.jpg)

Shot of the underside. Funny, it actually transferred my markings from the foam to the plastic!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB23_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB23.jpg)

Here I started marking out the ribs. I figure one rib every 1/2" looks about right.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB24_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB24.jpg)

Here I am forming the side skirts of the landing bay. These will attach under the overhangs on each side of the bay.
The ribs will continue from the top , over the edge and onto these pieces. You'll see what I mean a bit later.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB25_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB25.jpg)

All in all a productive day. Happy Easter everyone! :D

[Acey]

Wow.. cool... how'd you plan to make those ribs? Alu plats?

[Boddaker]

Wow.. cool... how'd you plan to make those ribs? Alu plats?

I plan to use the same stuff I used for the main piece, the plasti-paste. I'm going to try an experiment and see if it works. If not, I will probably resort to styrene.

But before I tackle the ribs, I have to clean up the side skirts and attach them to the main piece. That's on the docket this week.

[rendermandan]

Looking sweet! I'm going to be watching this one. +Reps

[Drew]

Looking good.

Waiting impatiently to see how all those ribs come out.

+rep my man.

[Boddaker]

Well, after referring to my reference pics again, I think I made too many rib lines. Right now I have 1/2" spacing, and I think I will redo the lines with 3/4" spacing. That will reduce the amount of ribs, and make it more true-to-life.

I was lucky enough to stumble across these awesome highly detailed schematics of the Galactica:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BSG_Schematic.jpg
Image courtesy COBYWAN (http://home.comcast.net/~cobywan/mypage.html)

I contacted cobywan to get permission to use his schematics for my project. Great guy! Turns out he built them off of detailed renders that came straight from Zoic, the special effects house that designed the new Galactica. Talk about a great find. Thanks coby! :D

[Drew]

You're gonna be a busy bunny :bunny:

[Boddaker]

You're gonna be a busy bunny :bunny:

So it would seem.......

:devious:

[Boddaker]

Minor update:

Did some work on the side skirts. Got them smoothed down,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB26_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB26.jpg)

and trimmed. This is how they will fit onto the main piece.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB27_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB27.jpg)

I taped them into place, and will add some support braces for strength. Once those are in, I will bondo up the seam and smooth out the edges.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB28_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB28.jpg)

8)

[chaksq]

Looking good. This mod is turning out real well.

[Boddaker]

Another productive weekend! :D

I managed to get the side skirts integrated onto the main piece. Here's how I did it:

First I needed to make a paper template for the inner braces that will hold the side skirts in place.
Since I formed them on the same foam buck as the main piece, they should be a mirror image of it.
So I took a piece of paper, folded it in half and cut it to fit the curve with the fold facing up. I strung a
piece of tape across for something to square off of.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB29_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB29.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB30_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB30.jpg)

I unfolded it and cut my braces. Made two of those, then made two smaller shapes and cut four
of each so I ended up with five braces per side.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB31_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB31.jpg)

Next was to cut a floor with notches for the braces. I used the built-in line in the plastic (made from the
wood base of the foam buck) as a guide to glue down the floor.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB32_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB32.jpg)

Then I glued in the braces, making sure they were square.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB33_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB33.jpg)

When those set up, I tacked down the side skirts. It didn't matter too much that there were some
gaps here and there, as you'll see in the next step.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB34_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB34.jpg)

Out came the Plasti-Paste once again for a good helping of reinforcement. I cut the floor out temporarily
so I could get to both sides.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB35_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB35.jpg)

Even so, it was a bear getting the stuff in the inner pockets. That was a good stopping point,
so I let it set up overnight.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB36_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB36.jpg)

The next day I rolled the table out for some more sanding and bondo filling. Oh what fun.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB37_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB37.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB38_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB38.jpg)

Didn't need much, and only a few areas needed minor spot putty.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB39_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB39.jpg)

After working the edges a bit more, I blew all the dust off it and brought the case out for a test fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB40_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB40.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB41_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB41.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB42_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB42.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB43_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB43.jpg)

Not bad! I may not even have to shave anything off. :)

You might think I can put the ribs on now, but there's one more thing I have to do first. I want to
add some detail to the surface: Pipes, various sized squares of paneling and such. It will be much
easier doing it now, than trying to work in between the ribs. If all goes well, I can get that done this
week, then rib next weekend.

8)

[DaveW]

This is taking shape so fast. Incredible stuff.

-Dave

[chaksq]

You should leave that hollow and rig up an HD mount or some thing in there. You could use it as a channel for cooling by adding a hidden fan(s) to it with the hanger bay as the opening.

That is looking great so far though!

[Boddaker]

You should leave that hollow and rig up an HD mount or some thing in there. You could use it as a channel for cooling by adding a hidden fan(s) to it with the hanger bay as the opening.

That is looking great so far though!

Yes, the landing bay will be totally hollow throughout, complete with running lights. Being such a large case, I can fit most/all of the components inside, so the bay's functionality might just be limited to ducting exhaust. I will get all the internals finalized though before I commit to building the floor and mounting it to the case.

8)

[Boddaker]

Time for my Sunday evening update. Not much has transpired since my last significant update.
Last time we left off with finishing up the side skirts and preparing the surface for the detailing.
Well I got most of it done over the last two days. It was good because this type of work could
easily be done in the living room with the wife and our 3-yr old. :) Although when my pile of
styrene piping disappeared, I knew who to ask!

Here I had just finished cutting up the first batch of squares of various sizes and shapes. You can
see the printout of high res reference photos of the Galactica on the right (thank you Starshipbuilder.com (http://www.starshipbuilder.com/forums/index.php)). :)
In order to save myself some work, I drew a rough outline of where the outer armor plating will be,
so I knew where not to add the detail (since it will be covered up anyway.)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB44_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB44.jpg)

...And after I got one side completed. I basically followed the ref photos loosely, just using them
as a general guideline. I proceeded in a random fashion so as not to look too uniform.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB45_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB45.jpg)

Some close up shots. Keep in mind all this will be painted the same color in the end.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB46_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB46.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB47_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB47.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB48_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB48.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB49_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB49.jpg)

For the detailing I used .040 Styrene sheet, and half-round styrene rod for the piping. The sheet came with
ultra-thin flexible strips, so I decided to use them as well for a smaller size pipe.

After adding a bit more detail on the side skirts, I think I can finally prepare the landing bay for the ribs.
If it works out, it's going to look awesome! Stick around.

8)

[Eclecticos]

Looking Real Good! :up: :up:

Way to be detailed. I know this one's gonna turn out Kewl!

[Boddaker]

Well, my little ribbing scheme didn't work the way I thought it would. :(

I was originally thinking I could build up the ribs using more Plasti-Paste, first by laying down strips of weatherstripping with a 1/8" gap in between, then troweling the paste over the whole thing and working it into the 1/8" slots thus making up the ribs. But when I couldn't find weatherstripping of a suitable size, I turned to foam strips as a possible solution. I cut a bunch of those and sprayed one side with adhesive. But that didn't work either because the strips wouldn't take to the curves very well and the ends would pop up as a result.
So I am now in the process of laying the ribs down one by one, using 1/8" thick styrene strips cut to 1/4".

Sorry I don't have pics just yet, my DSL is down at home. I will post them tonight if I can get my internet back up.

[Boddaker]

So my internet at the house is still down, so I brought the pics into work and posted them. :P

Here's what I was trying to do with the foam strips, but they wouldn't stick.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB50_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB50.jpg)

So I cut up a bunch of styrene strips and went to work.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB51_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB51.jpg)

I have to fit each strip over the detail pieces. (had I known I was going to do it this way, I would have added the
detailing after laying down the ribs.)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB52_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB52.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB53_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB53.jpg)

The styrene is very soft. Doesn't need much heat to become pliable.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB54_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB54.jpg)

Here's where I'm at, about 1/4 done. But you can kinda see what it will look like.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB55_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB55.jpg)

Once all the ribbing is in place, I will add the outer armor pieces over select areas, then add detail to them.

[NuKS]

I must say this is looking really awesome. I just joined the board about a week ago, and really am enjoying everyones' projects. It gives me some ideas and makes me want to work a bunch of OT so I can earn a bit of extra cash and start my project!

[jdbnsn]

I agree, great work so far! Front-page pimpage!

http://www.thebestcasescenario.com

[Eclecticos]

Check this out! I found you some more Galactica Schematics.
http://www.shipschematics.net/

[Franklin]

Fantastic casemod.

[Bucko]

I agree! It's looking good so far.

+rep

[Boddaker]

w00t! Thanks for the front page jdbnsn! :D

And thanks Eclecticos for that link, I may need more schematics when I get to the interior.

I hope to have another small update for ya tonight or tomorrow. :)

[isunktheship]

So what's the first thing that you gotta do when starting any case mod?
That's right- Disassemble the donor case!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Stacker1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Stacker1.jpg)


DONOR CASE?? That thing is godly, I want that sooo bad. How nicely will watercooling fit into that thing? I'll probably end up PMing you with more questions because that's really gonna be my next case.

Gl with the rest of the project, excellent idea, and follow through!

-AJC

[Boddaker]

yes, this case is awesome. I call it a donor case because it is the case I won from the Cooler Master contest last year. ;) If I had actually purchased it, I would probably think twice about hacking it up... then I would hack it up! lol

It has a cavernous interior, and it shouldn't be a problem fitting any kind of watercooling inside.

-------

Ok so I'm a dumbass for not checking on this earlier, but I found (and ordered) these pre-cut styrene strips (http://www.hobbylinc.com/htm/pls/pls90789.htm)
in the exact size and shape I need. :D That will save me a bunch of cutting time. And they will be more uniform too.
I just hope the ones I already did don't look to imperfect in comparison.

[Boddaker]

Small update. Basically got more of the same done. Almost got one side completed! :D

Anyway, here's a few more shots:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB56_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB56.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB57_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB57.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB58_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB58.jpg)

8)

[OvRiDe]

Looking awsome. The patience you have just exemplifies the craftsmanship. Anxious to see this one complete.

[Eclecticos]

I'm Jealous :redface: :D



And thanks Eclecticos for that link, I may need more schematics when I get to the interior.


What are you planning to do to the inside?

[Boddaker]

What are you planning to do to the inside?

That, my friend, is a secret and you'll have to wait and see! :twisted:

[Boddaker]

Ok here we go- a Sunday night update actually posted on Sunday! :D

Well I finished one side of the ribbing, so I thought I would do one panel of the outer armor to see how it looks on there.
I am using a couple sheets of styrene, one .040 and one .010.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB59_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB59.jpg)

I took the sheet of .040 and cut out the shape, after making a paper pattern.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB60_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB60.jpg)

Then on the .010, I outlined the same shape and drew some squares, triangles, and other shapes according to
the reference pic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB61_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB61.jpg)

I took an exacto knife to it, almost cutting each shape out, but leaving them attached for now. I matched it up
to the main piece and taped the ends together.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB62_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB62.jpg)

Now that I mated them up how I want them, I open it up and put a dab of glue under each panel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB63_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB63.jpg)

Fold it back over and glue it down.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB64_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB64.jpg)

After a few minutes, I can pull off the leftovers, completing all the cuts along the way.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB65_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB65.jpg)

And voila! We have raised armor paneling! Much easier than cutting them out and pasting them on individually.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB66_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB66.jpg)

A shot of the panel in place on the landing bay. It's just taped on for now, because I will need to paint
underneath it before permanently gluing it down.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB67_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB67.jpg)

Now it is on to the other side of ribbing. It may be a while 'til my next post, because I won't be doing
anything different and exciting for some time. At least until I do the ends. :D

[Drew]

Coming on a pearler.

Actually lookin' BSG like.

[Franklin]

This mod will be amazing. Love to see worklogs like this with materials I didn't even know. That styrene is a very interesting material.

[Tech-Daddy]

Oh my effing ghod, Bod.... this thing is going to be A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Stellar construction detail!

Styrene... I have never used it. Where do you get it from? Hobby shops? And am I corret in seeing that it is semi rigid but is bendable with a little heat? Very good! How is it after it cools? Is it flexable? brittle? Just curious....

I love the original BSG, and I have loved the few BSG's that I have caught on TV (almost made me start watching the TV again... *almost*)

The use of that Stacker is a perfect use for the style of that case! Your use of a foam mold and plastic is a stroke of genius! I had never heard of that stuff, else I would have used that on the BOSS scoop! Much better results!

(madly scribbles notes down in notepad)

I just wanted to chime in and say, "Beautiful work bro!" I am watching this thing like a hawk!

/me subscribed!

[Boddaker]

Oh my effing ghod, Bod.... this thing is going to be A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! Stellar construction detail!

Styrene... I have never used it. Where do you get it from? Hobby shops? And am I corret in seeing that it is semi rigid but is bendable with a little heat? Very good! How is it after it cools? Is it flexable? brittle? Just curious....

I love the original BSG, and I have loved the few BSG's that I have caught on TV (almost made me start watching the TV again... *almost*)

The use of that Stacker is a perfect use for the style of that case! Your use of a foam mold and plastic is a stroke of genius! I had never heard of that stuff, else I would have used that on the BOSS scoop! Much better results!

(madly scribbles notes down in notepad)

I just wanted to chime in and say, "Beautiful work bro!" I am watching this thing like a hawk!

/me subscribed!

Wow thanks man! :D

Yeah any hobby store will have it. I got my sheets from hobbylinc. (http://www.hobbylinc.com)
Those strips are somewhat flexible, but can turn into a wet noodle with very little heat. Once cooled it regains its rigidity.

I'm taking a bit of a break right now, since we just had an addition to our family last week. A beautiful baby girl! :p Our second one, so as you can imagine my spare time has all but disappeared. Once we get into some semblance of a routine, I might be able to sneak out to the garage from time to time. We'll see how it goes. Right now, I am just basking in the glow of our new daughter and lovin' life!

[Tech-Daddy]

Wow thanks man! :D

Yeah any hobby store will have it. I got my sheets from hobbylinc. (http://www.hobbylinc.com)
Those strips are somewhat flexible, but can turn into a wet noodle with very little heat. Once cooled it regains its rigidity.

I'm taking a bit of a break right now, since we just had an addition to our family last week. A beautiful baby girl! :p Our second one, so as you can imagine my spare time has all but disappeared. Once we get into some semblance of a routine, I might be able to sneak out to the garage from time to time. We'll see how it goes. Right now, I am just basking in the glow of our new daughter and lovin' life!


:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Babies really are the ultimate form of modding, if you think about it in the right light! ;)

Congrats bro! More so on the new addition than this sweet mod! I know *right* where you are, as when our 2nd came in, my modding time went straight out the window, and she stole my wittle heart.... ;)

Kudos to you, the wife and the fam! I assume that everyone is happy and healthy? Wifey doing well?

[elbarto241]

hope ur family is doin good too. love the way you lifted the frame of the raised sheilding instead of cutting each piece out. pure genius.

[Boddaker]

I assume that everyone is happy and healthy? Wifey doing well?

Yep everyone's fine. It's a good thing my wife knows how to git 'er done! She did most of her laboring at home, so when we got to the hospital, we were there no more than an hour and we had a baby! No complications, it all went smoothly.

Here's a pic of the little princess, Helena Christina
(if the mods will allow a bit of off-topicness)
http://www.bods-mods.com/Helena/Helena1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/Helena/Helena1.jpg)

[Eclecticos]

By all means! . . Thats a Beautiful baby. Congrats!

[SgtM]

Congrats on the new addition!

[CHIMERA]

bad ass mod man. +rep

[Computer-Geek]

wow this is going to be awesome also you are helping me alot with my future mod :)

Congrats on the baby :D

[b4i7]

bad ass mod man. +rep

thats not a mod ...its a baby :P

[Boddaker]

See, that's how good my mod is: it looks exactly like a real baby! :p (it even sounds like one, trust me! :eek: )

Thanks guys for all the comments and grats, they are greatly appreciated. :D

[Boddaker]

IT LIVES!!!!!!

Ok I'm back on this project, and I actually got something new to show.
Looking back at my last update, I had just finished the one side of ribs,
and one armor panel. Well, I finally managed to finish the ribs on the
other side, and much much more! Check it out:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB68_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB68.jpg)

After that exercise in tedium, I did the ends.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB69_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB69.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB70_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB70.jpg)

The center areas will be cut out later, but I kept them intact for now. I won't know how
much to cut off until I get the inside panels done.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB71_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB71.jpg)

Then it was on to the rest of the outer armor plates. Going off the ref pics, I sketched out some designs
and cut them out just as before.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB72_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB72.jpg)

Using the same technique, I glued the smaller panels onto the main piece.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB76_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB76.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB74_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB74.jpg)

More sketching, going off of my earlier chalk markings.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB75_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB75.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB73_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB73.jpg)

For the end armor panels, had to do some measuring and a little geometry to get the right shape.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB77_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB77.jpg)

I also needed to get the correct curves for the shape so they match.
I brought my trusty flexible curve out again to transfer the curve from the main body to the sheet.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB78_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB78.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB79_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB79.jpg)

Not a bad match! Now to do it again for the other end.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB80_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB80.jpg)

Comparing it to the ref pic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB81_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB81.jpg)

All the armor panels done! Well, almost all. I still need to do the top.
But I can't do the top until I get all these panels glued on.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB82_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB82.jpg)

I thought I would shoot a coat of primer onto the whole thing to get underneath the panels before I glued them on,
but also because I wanted to see this thing all one color for once!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB83_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB83.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB84_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB84.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB85_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB85.jpg)

Looks pretty good, don't you think? This is where I'm at now. Next step is to get all the armor pieces glued down, and the top armor on.

Feels good to be back on track with this mod. I can't believe it's been over two months since I stopped working on it.
Hopefully I can keep at it now, and post some regular updates from here on out. :)

8)

[Eclecticos]

Incredible! Looks Fan-Freakin-Tastic. The Detail is Right on, Right on. +Rep
I was wondering if you were going to come back and continue this.
Welcome Back!

[The boy 4rm oz]

Holy crap!!! I can't believe I missed this mod. +rep and good work. Can't wait to see more.

[Computer-Geek]

I was wondering where you have been :p Nice work :up: !

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys. I'm amped up to make some more progress this week, so I'll have another update real soon.

[Sting]

Hey nice to see you back again and ready to amaze. Great mod Boddaker +rep, i cant wait to see this thread alive with updates again

[Remy]

Excellent job on this mod. I love BSG. I can remember the original episodes from my child hood, just f-ing amazing.

+REP

Good luck with the rest of this mod. I know it's gonna look awesome. I can't wait to see it finished.

[Boddaker]

Ok, more work done, yay! :D

Was able to finally attach the outer armor panels to the ribs. I sanded off the areas and commenced gluing.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB86_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB86.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB88_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB88.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB89_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB89.jpg)

Got one side done, then the end.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB87_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB87.jpg)

Once I got both sides done, then I could measure out the top panel. Since this panel overlaps both sides,
I had to wait til everything else was on before making this piece. I drew it up, cut it out (leaving the
panels slightly attached), and glued them down.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB90_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB90.jpg)

...And the gutters removed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB91_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB91.jpg)

...And glued onto the top. I had to add a styrene rib under each end to sort of cap it off and give it
something for the edge to adhere to. After gluing that down, I applied some glazing putty to smooth
out the seams. Once painted, it will look like a contiguous part.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB92_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB92.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB93_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB93.jpg)

A close up shot.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB94_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB94.jpg)

All that's left is adding a few more detail pieces here and there, and then I can paint it.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great, you have really good attention to detail.

[Drew]

Can't wait for paint, looks mega coolio!

[Blackout]

yeh man that's frackin amaizin :D
whats that material your using to make the panels, is it like a modlers plastic sheet?

[Boddaker]

thanks guys!


yeh man that's frackin amaizin :D
whats that material your using to make the panels, is it like a modlers plastic sheet?

It is styrene sheet, and it is used in model making and comes in various thicknesses and shapes. Any hobby store will carry it.

[p0Pe]

finally another update:D... loves this mod, as ive just begun watching the series. hope to se lots of updates soon again:D

and then make another mod with the pegasus:), and one with a cylon base ship 8D

+rep for the awsome moddeling

[cookies&cream]

kool. its coming out good.

[Boddaker]

thanks for the support guys! :D

I got some interesting things planned for this mod, so keep checking back. I may not be able to post updates regularly, but when I do, it will be worth it!

8)

[Boddaker]

"God is in the details."

Adding more detail pieces on the top. This will be some grates on a couple of the panels.
Took a piece of styrene and drew out some lines.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB95_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB95.jpg)

Cut out some material with my acrylic cutter, taking care not to cut all the way through.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB96_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB96.jpg)

Chopped down to size,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB97_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB97.jpg)

And glued into place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB98_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB98.jpg)

I wanted to add this raised circle portion in the middle of the top panel and put the BSG insignia on it,
but I didn't have a thick enough piece of styrene.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/logobutton_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/logobutton.jpg)

So I found a scrap piece of press board and cut out a circle,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB99_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB99.jpg)

and sanded down around its circumference to get the required shape.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB100_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB100.jpg)

Sanded.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB101_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB101.jpg)

Profile.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB102_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB102.jpg)

Test fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB103_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB103.jpg)

Next was to skin it with a thin sheet of styrene. In order to work with it, I temporarily glued the wafer
to another scrap piece of wood for a holder.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB104_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB104.jpg)

Cut out an oversized piece of styrene, glued the center down, and turned on the heat. Didn't need much!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB105_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB105.jpg)

After a few minutes it looked like this.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB106_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB106.jpg)

Trimmed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB108_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB108.jpg)

Glued.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB109_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB109.jpg)

Profile.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB110_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB110.jpg)

Test fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB111_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB111.jpg)

Once I sand down the edges, I will glue it down permanently. Then once the whole thing is painted,
I will go back and apply the insignia along with the requisite weathering and such.

More detailing to be done over the weekend. Stay tuned.

Ok, pop quiz hot shot! Who can tell me the name of the person who said that quote at the top of this post? And no googling! :P

And as a bonus, who can tell me where the quote "pop quiz, hot shot!" came from? Again, no google cheaters!

[danthegeek]

I have no idea for the quiz but I do know this mod is awesome :D .

Good Job and keep going.

-danthegeek

[The boy 4rm oz]

I agree, looks awesome.

[UK-Blade]

Can't remember who said in BG (I'd guess at either Apollo or Lee Adama), but its also a quote from Speed. Dennis Hopper says it "Pop quiz, Hot Shot, theres a bomb on a bus...blahblah" can't remember the rest.

[Boddaker]

Can't remember who said in BG (I'd guess at either Apollo or Lee Adama), but its also a quote from Speed. Dennis Hopper says it "Pop quiz, Hot Shot, theres a bomb on a bus...blahblah" can't remember the rest.


lol you're correct, it's from the movie Speed. I dont recall any BSG character saying it tho.

Any guesses on the first quote? Again, it isn't a reference to Battlestar Galactica, just something I thought was appropriate to start the update with. :)

[Mach]

God is in the details?

Einstein <nope>

[Blackout]

no clue on the quotes but bloody good modeling my man and why in the hell blazes havnt you made a bsg model before?
next i expect to see a detailed model of a viper on a stand my man and thats a order.

[Boddaker]

"The details are details. They make the product.
The connections, the connections, the connections.
It will in the end be these details that give the product its life."

Another appropriate quote I found. This one is a bit more obscure, but see if you can get it. You are free to use Google too. :)

Here we go, more detail pieces. These will run along both edges of the top armor panel.
I cut a bunch of wedges off a piece of styrene, then a bunch of smaller wedges from a tiny piece
of scrap .040 sheet.
It looks tedious, but once I got going, it didnt' take long. I had to make 28 of them.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB112_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB112.jpg)

Gluing the small wedge onto the big wedge.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB113_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB113.jpg)

I used a piece of tape to keep all the small wedges in place until it was time to use them.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB114_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB114.jpg)

All 28.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB115_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB115.jpg)

Gluing them to the top panel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB116_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB116.jpg)

I had this package of detail pieces lying around, so I thought I would throw some onto the armor.
I will be doing some kit-bashing later.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB117_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB117.jpg)

Glued in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB118_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB118.jpg)

...And primed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB119_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB119.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB120_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB120.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB121_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB121.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB122_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB122.jpg)

Here's a few shots of the landing bay on the case.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB123_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB123.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB124_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB124.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB125_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB125.jpg)

The top being pretty much done (other than final paint), I started on the interior panels, which will include support beams with lighting.

8)

Oh, and the answer to the previous quote quiz is: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.

[Drew]

Bloody hell.

+rep.

[p0Pe]

dude!... you have a eye for the details,
and now im gonna ask stupid, and you are probertly gonna hate me for saying:
but which part of the ship is it? i KNOW thats its the battlestar galactica, but in my humble apinion, it does not look like a part of the ship (since im looking for the disk aray on top to compare)
please correct me if im wrong.
just came to look at this ref:
http://www.shipschematics.net/bsg/images/colonial/battlestar_galactica.jpg
but the work you have done is amazing! cant wait to se how the rest of the case is gonna turn out

[scar~face]

d00d, you must a pretty figgin steady hand

[Boddaker]

dude!... you have a eye for the details,
and now im gonna ask stupid, and you are probertly gonna hate me for saying:
but which part of the ship is it? i KNOW thats its the battlestar galactica, but in my humble apinion, it does not look like a part of the ship (since im looking for the disk aray on top to compare)
please correct me if im wrong.
just came to look at this ref:
http://www.shipschematics.net/bsg/images/colonial/battlestar_galactica.jpg
but the work you have done is amazing! cant wait to se how the rest of the case is gonna turn out

That is actually a good question. I am not modeling this from any specific part of the actual ship. I'm basically creating the mod "in the style of" the galactica, taking cues from different parts (disk array and some armor panels is from the main ship body, etc).

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate u can't be human lol, must be some kind of robot haha. +rep.

[p0Pe]

That is actually a good question. I am not modeling this from any specific part of the actual ship. I'm basically creating the mod "in the style of" the galactica, taking cues from different parts (disk array and some armor panels is from the main ship body, etc).

okay:D... but either way; it looks amazing!... please make it your future projekt to make the whole ship, or the pagasus!

[Blackout]

okay:D... but either way; it looks amazing!... please make it your future projekt to make the whole ship, or the pagasus!

i was going to say this that this mod is inspiring me to undertake a scale model in the same fashion using this log as a guide to techniques.
that being how much the materials are as a factor
this is unreal its like a professional film set modler for bsg or trek. top marks my man

+rep

[Scotty]

ZOMFG :o

[p0Pe]

i was going to say this that this mod is inspiring me to undertake a scale model in the same fashion using this log as a guide to techniques.
that being how much the materials are as a factor
this is unreal its like a professional film set modler for bsg or trek. top marks my man

+rep

he´s able to do it:D.. we just have to push him to it!

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys! An entire ship would take way too much time. Time that could be better spent modding! :p

Yes, the majority of this log so far has been "mere" model making. But I have a lot of things planned for the rest of the case that I cannot wait to get to.

btw, is there a good (and safe) way to remove anodizing from aluminum panels? I plan on gluing more ribs to the side panels and then painting them, and the glue doesn't stick well to the coated surface. I have heard that oven cleaner works, but I haven't tried it.

[p0Pe]

why not just nail them to the panel?.. make very small wholes and then a few nails:p

[Drew]

Thats just silly.

Nails indeed.

You want a welder!

Weld 'em on. Grind off the offending coating with an angle grinder and you're good to go. TiG FTW!

[p0Pe]

Thats just silly.

Nails indeed.

You want a welder!

Weld 'em on. Grind off the offending coating with an angle grinder and you're good to go. TiG FTW!

slight problem if hes gonna use plastik for the sidepanels as well:P

[Drew]

Easy.

Plastic weld.

Or as its properly called, hot glue :D :D

:edit:

Actually, that might work :D :D :D :D

[p0Pe]

Easy.

Plastic weld.

Or as its properly called, hot glue :D :D

:edit:

Actually, that might work :D :D :D :D

u think?.. on a metal side panel?... if so, it should be no problem:D

[Boddaker]

lol you guys are too funny!

Glue doesn't stick well to the existing coating, which is why I need to remove it.

I have considered throwing a clean sheet of alu over the panel since I'm changing the opening anyways, but then there's the issue of attaching that.

If I had unlimited resources, I could CNC me a new panel complete with ribs from one piece of aluminum stock! Now that would be cool.

[Jim Beam]

polyurethane sticks to metal and plastic try a product called Vulkem or Sikaflex. Some Home Depot's carry Sikaflex in the building department by the concrete and stuff. You can't miss it, it's yellow with red writing.

Note: polyurethane sticks to everything. it doesn't come off your cloths and may take up to 2 days to dry. I have glues Aluminum to the ground with this stuff and we had to use a forklift to get it off. Needless to say it tokk chunks of concrete with it.

[Mach]

I haven't tried it but my gearhead friends say sodium hydroxide - lye, drano, or oven cleaner - will work. Here's a tutorial, hope it helps:

http://www.fordification.com/trim-polishing.htm

EDIT: I wouldn't call this safe BTW. If you try it, goggles, long sleeves, and gloves are all required.

[Boddaker]

Working on the ends now, and into the interior of the landing bay. I am attempting to continue
the ribs around the edge of the opening and down the inner panel, as seen here in this reference pic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LBref_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LBref.jpg)

I start by cutting the triangular panels to shape and gluing them in.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB126_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB126.jpg)

Then I can perform additional gratuitous styrene stick heat manipulation.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB127_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB127.jpg)

Since I need to perform the same manipulation on a number of unsuspecting styrene sticks,
I decided to make a quick jig. I traced the first stick's profile onto a piece of wood.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB128_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB128.jpg)

Routed it out,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB129_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB129.jpg)

Checked for fit,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB130_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB130.jpg)

Then routed some more so a straight stick could be set in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB131_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB131.jpg)

Voila! Instant SSHM Jig, where the bend is the same each time.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB132_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB132.jpg)

Now it's just a matter of measuring and marking for the position of each bend.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB133_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB133.jpg)

This is why I left the cross beams in place before. I wasn't sure where to cut them.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB134_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB134.jpg)

Now that I have these pieces in place, I can lop them off.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB135_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB135.jpg)

Rounded off and sanded down.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB136_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB136.jpg)

After a small application of bondo at the seams, I did some sanding and a quick shot of primer to see where I'm at.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB137_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB137.jpg)

Looks like there's a bit more work to be done here before the joints are no longer visible. Then its on to the other end!

8)

[Drew]

Absolute quality.

You sir, are a bit good.

[.Maleficus.]

Absolute quality.

You sir, are a bit good.
A bit!? That's nonsense Drew. Absolute rubbish.

You a bit great. This right now is one of my favorite worklogs. Keep those updates coming!

[Boddaker]

Thanks a bit guys! :D

I intend on getting a ton of work done on this over the holiday weekend, so expect some mega updates! I may even get to show you a different part of the build! :eek:

[Drew]

show you a different part of the build! :eek:

There's more?

:eek: :eek: :eek:

[Boddaker]

There's more?

:eek: :eek: :eek:

Just a bit more. :twisted:

[XcOM]

whats with all these bits?

[Drew]

Rather have bytes?

Bits not good enuff for ya?

Bloody snob.

[Boddaker]

http://www.mytoolstore.com/irwin/bitpic.jpg

:p

[XcOM]

i was thinking along the likes of your mod is millions of bits waiting to be duck taped together

http://www.tractorbynet.com/photos/data/569/26850DuckTape.jpg

[XcOM]

Rather have bytes?

Bits not good enuff for ya?

Bloody snob.


why no my good man, bits are far too common, bytes are the properway these days.

have a good night good sir

[Boddaker]

Well, I didn't get as much done on BSG as I had planned over the weekend (hanging kitchen cabinets apparently takes a long time!), but I did finally get to move on to other parts of the case! :up:
I pretty much finished up the landing bay, and set that aside to work on some other things, like the side panels. I tried the oven cleaner trick to remove the anodizing, and it worked flawlessly! I have pics, and will post them up later this evening.

I also did some preliminary work on the front panel as well, but there's really nothing to show there, just measuring and planning.

[Remy]

Boddaker, this mod is beyond awesome. Your attention to detail is obvious. I'm a perfectionist and detail oriented, but what you're doing gives me butterflies. +REP :up:

I move for a vote to have this moved to the featured logs.

Keep it up.

--Jeremy

[Boddaker]

Thanks Remy! I'm flattered to hear that. Maybe the mods agree? :down: :up: lol

Anyway:
Woohoo! Starting a different part of the case!! :banana:
The next part of the case that will get the ol' rib/armor treatment is the side panels.
Not nearly as painstaking as the landing bay was, thanks to the panels being nice and flat,
and that vast expanse of beautiful nothingness right in the middle! lol

Anyhoo, after asking around about what the best way to remove anodizing from aluminum,
I ended up with basically two answers: Oven cleaner, and basic sanding. So I figured I would
test the former, and if it didn't work out, I would settle for the latter.

So here are the panels ready to be stripped.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP1.jpg)

After a quick spray, the oven cleaner immediately starts bubbling and fuming.
(Good thing I was wearing gloves, a face mask and was outside. ;) )
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP2.jpg)

I had read that when using oven cleaner, to let it sit at least 45 minutes before the
anodize begins to fall off. In my case, just 15 minutes was enough to do the job!
My guess is that the 45 minutes refers to pieces that are "hard Anodized", which penetrates
deeper into the aluminum and thusly takes longer to remove. The anodizing on the
Stacker is apparently really light and doesn't take much coercing before coming off.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP3.jpg)

Here are the panels after a thorough rinsing.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP4.jpg)

And here are the panels after a light sanding to remove any missed spots.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP5.jpg)

Now that I have a nice and clean aluminum panel to work with, I can lay out my armor and
start cutting! This armor shape delineates the rectangular window in the middle, with the
peripheral areas of the panel getting more ribbing (nooooooo!)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP6.jpg)

The use of the oven cleaner saved me hours of sanding, and I will apply this method of removal
to the other parts of the case as well.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

They look so cool like that, will you paint them or leave them as they are. They would look cool if you left em.

[Boddaker]

They look so cool like that, will you paint them or leave them as they are. They would look cool if you left em.

The side panels will be painted due to all the styrene ribbing and armor that will be applied. Though it seems kinda silly to have a nice bare aluminum panel and then paint it with metallic aluminum paint! lol

[XcOM]

looking sweet dude,

my vote for featured.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Yeah is does, I would leave the panels as is.

[TheGreatSatan]

I move for a vote to have this moved to the featured logs.

I agree! +Rep from me too! Nice website too.

[Drew]

I agree! +Rep from me too! Nice website too.

Yeah.

Me too.

What he said.

</lazy ass mode>

[Boddaker]

I agree! +Rep from me too! Nice website too.

Thx TGS!

(Drew gets what's left of that thanks since he was lazy and just copied him. :p )

Ok progress!

More ribbing done. Compared to the landing bay, this was a breeze! Just a few measurements,
and some logistics to work out and I was cuttin' and gluin'! :D

I used some masking tape to give myself some guidelines, and line out the window area.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP7.jpg)

Working my way across the bottom.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP8.jpg)

The top needed some extra thought, and how it would meet up with the landing bay.
So a quick test fit was in order.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP9.jpg)

More test fitting.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP10.jpg)

Yet more test fitting, this time with the armor panel. You can see I had to cut a bit away at the back.
I will add another armor piece to the landing bay to match it.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP11.jpg)

A close up of the top front. I kept this area clean of ribbing because in order to remove the panel,
it will slide back and out from under the landing bay. So any ribbing would be in the way here.
Rather than hide this area, I'm going to do some creative detailing to make it look like a well-used
portion of the ship. Wear marks, scrapes and the like will enhance the overall look and feel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP12.jpg)

Moving right along now! I just might get the side panels taken care of over the weekend. That would be nice. :)

[Drew]

Looking great, be interesting to see what you do with the 'void' between the top and the sides.

At the moment, you are da man.

[Mach]

Outstanding work, Bod!

Definitely feature quality. rep=rep+1

[Boddaker]

made some decent progress on the engine pods. :D

Studying the ref pics and figuring where the pods would go on the case, I determined the size & shape,
and drew the outline onto the foam.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods1.jpg)

This foam is 1 1/2" thick. I use this long-bladed knife to cut through it.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods2.jpg)

Making several cuts, my last pass is utilizing the whole blade.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods3.jpg)

The large pods at the back are 2 1/2" wide, so I have to double up on the foam to get that thickness.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods4.jpg)

Here's roughly where they will go.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods5.jpg)

Had to make four total. Two being mirror images of the other two.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods6.jpg)

Now its time to carve the foam to the correct curvy shape. I drew the shape of the nozzle
onto the end to give me a starting point.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods7.jpg)

Here are all four pods after the first round of carving.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods8.jpg)

And here they are after round 2, using the orbital sander to smooth them out.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods9.jpg)

I glued the pods temporarily to a 2x4 so I could easily maneuver around them while I spread the plasti-paste.
Got the first one covered. Here you can see the stuff is already setting up. Can't do more than one at a time,
but I didn't have enough mixed up to do more than one anyway. ;-)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods10.jpg)

Thats where I'm at so far. I will try to get back in there later tonight and do the remaining 3. Once I get them all sanded down smooth, I can demold and fit them to the case.

8)

[Remy]

Once again, with the faom and plasti-paste. You make it look SO easy. Where do you get the foam amd the paste, and what's the cost of that stuff? Great work.

Remy

[Boddaker]

Once again, with the faom and plasti-paste. You make it look SO easy. Where do you get the foam amd the paste, and what's the cost of that stuff? Great work.

Remy

hehe I bought a gallon of the stuff from Smooth-on.com (http://www.smooth-on.com) and I need to use it or else it will expire. It's $50, but you can get a trial size for like $35 or something.

The foam is your basic sheet of Owens Corning insulation foam from Lowes.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great so fr, keep up the good work.

[Boddaker]

it's been a long week of sanding, filling, sanding, and more sanding, but I think all that effort
was worth it. have a look!

Here's a shot of the last pod getting coated with the resin.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods11.jpg)

big jump in the timeline here, this is after many hours of sanding, bondo filling, and more sanding.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods11b_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods11b.jpg)

A close up of one of the larger pods. You can see the sanding scratches the 80grit sandpaper left.
I used 80grit to get the basic smooth shape down, then i went back over everything with the orbital
sander and 120grit to sand out those scratches.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods12.jpg)

Close up of the back end. Here you can see the thickness of the plastic. There are some thin areas,
but for the most part I got a pretty consistent layer all around. I will beef up any thin areas with
bondo from the inside.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods13.jpg)

Cut off the 2x4, and foam removed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods14.jpg)

Close up of the back end.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods15.jpg)

Close up of the under side.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods16.jpg)

And of course I had to throw them on the case to see how they fit, after hitting them with some primer. :)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods17.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods18.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods19.jpg)

I still gotta clean them up around the edges, and notch them so they fit better around the back
of the side panels. Then they will sit better and not stick out so far out the back.

8)

[jdbnsn]

Dude, that thing is looking fantastic! Great job on the ribs.

[Drew]

Oh yes, well done that man.

+rep, keep it up dude.

[chaksq]

I haven't been around in a while. I was watching this case before and I have to say it is coming along great!

[Boddaker]

This last week was a hectic one for me, so I didn't get as much done as I had hoped. But I at least got the pods fitted to the case better.
Here are a few shots:

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods20_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods20.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods21_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods21.jpg)

You can see the cardboard template I made at the bottom of the last shot for notching the pods so they fit over the back of the side panels.
The right side was a bitch because I had to work around all the ribs. Thankfully, I hadn't gotten all the ribs on the left panel yet, so
those pods went on much easier.

Doesn't seem like much, but hey- some progress is better than no progress right? If all goes better this week,
I may be able to button up the side panels by the weekend.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Great job on those pods, fantastic work so far.

[rendermandan]

those pods are looking good! +rep

[Boddaker]

Thanks a lot guys. I am starting to add some detail to the pods before I commit to gluing them to the side panels. It is easier to work with them now while I can get to the underside. Will post pics tomorrow or so.

[p0Pe]

then you just have to make som blue flames come out from the pods:D gl with that xD could have been neat if they were fan intakes lol

+rep^^

[Boddaker]

Ok, well I was going to post an update last night, but my server was down. But now it looks like it's up and running, so on with the update!

Got a bunch of work done on the pods over the course of last week, adding detail and basically
hacking them up! :twisted: Essentially, what I wanted to do was continue the ribbing/armor motif,
but I didn't want to just glue more styrene ribs over the pods. So I came up with the idea to cut out
areas of the pods to give the impression of ribs running through them.

So I drew out my design,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods25_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods25.jpg)

...and cut it out.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods24_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods24.jpg)

Then I proceeded to add a styrene backing to the underside.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods26_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods26.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods27_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods27.jpg)

Once that was done, I started on those rows of ports seen here:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Ports.jpg

Since I didn't have any styrene tubes lying around, I figured a few pens would work just as well. Sorry Lowes!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods28_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods28.jpg)

Chopped it up,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods29_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods29.jpg)

Drilled the holes,
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods30_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods30.jpg)

and glued them in. Here's a shot of the back side.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods31_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods31.jpg)

Used some glazing putty to fill in around the edges.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods32_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods32.jpg)

I was trying to figure out what I could use for the inner nozzle. After looking around in Michaels
craft store, I found these wooden beads.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods33_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods33.jpg)

Had to sand them down a bit so they would fit into the pen tubes. I stuck them onto a nail and
rotated them over the belt sander.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods34_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods34.jpg)

One more to go!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods35_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods35.jpg)

For the bigger pods, I had to find bigger pens. These are 7/16" dia. Drilled a pilot hole, then used
the dremel to rout out the rest. A bigger drill bit would crack the plastic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods36_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods36.jpg)

Pen #2 cut and glued in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods37_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods37.jpg)

Pen #3 bites the dust!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods38_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods38.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods39_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods39.jpg)

While the pens were setting up, I drew out the rib sections on the larger pods.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods40_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods40.jpg)

And cut those out.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods41_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods41.jpg)

With the styrene backing in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods42_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods42.jpg)

After more sanding and filling around the ports, I got all four primed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods43_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods43.jpg)

Now I can start lining out the armor pattern. I just did a quick sketch on one to show you what it will look like.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods44_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods44.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods45_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods45.jpg)

I won't be doing these armor panels the same way as before. The pods' complex curves would make it too difficult to
lay them down flat. I have a much easier method in mind, but I'm gonna leave that for next time. In the interim though, feel
free to speculate how I will do it! :P

8)

[chaksq]

Nice progress I love your attention to details. I really like this show again as a friend of mine got all of the episodes and the past few days we have been watching through the show marathon style.

[Fuganater]

WOW!!! Battlestar Galactia is awesome. And even more as a PC. I'll be watching this one.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Who would have thought that pens could be so useful haha, great work so far, keep it up. +rep

[UK-Blade]

Amazing attention to detail Boddaker, soon its gonna look better than the 'real' CGI BG!!

Keep up the good work +rep

[Boddaker]

Thanks a lot guys! And UK-Blade, I don't know about that, the real CGI battlestar is flippin insanely detailed. I could spend years making this case look like that.

Well, I was going to have an update for ya today, hoping to have the pods mounted on the case. But alas, it started raining last night and I couldn't paint. So I set them aside and started the front bezel, which will house slot-loading dvd drive, and lcd screens. Yes, I said SCREENS, as in more than one! :wink:

Sorry for the non-pic post, but I didn't want to post only one or two pics and leave you hanging. :P

[Boddaker]

Ok, here's what I got done on the pods as of late. I taped all the gutters off using standard blue masking tape.
I couldn't find any 1/16" pinstriping tape, or anything thin enough, so I made my own. :P
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46b_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46b.jpg)

Here's one pod done. I just went randomly, not following any specific plan, or even my previous pencil
marks for that matter. lol
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46a_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46a.jpg)

All four masked.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods46.jpg)

After several coats of primer and about 3 coats of the metallic silver. Ooooh, shiny! but not for long!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods47_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods47.jpg)

Removing all the tiny strips of tape...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods48_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods48.jpg)

... and all four unmasked. Yes, thats primer underneath, and yes, it will be covered with a final light coat of the
silver metallic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods49_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods49.jpg)

Don't worry about it being too shiny and chrome-like. I will be weathering it and dulling it down quite a bit when
the time comes.

This shot reminded me of "tinsel". Anyone remember that stuff?
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods50_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods50.jpg)

I didn't get to the end caps tonight. Was too tired and wanted to post what I had so far before bedtime.
That's next on the list, and should get to it in a couple days.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Holy **** dude, that looks great.

[XcOM]

Holy **** dude, that looks great.

Seconded

[Fuganater]

Looking good. Love the detail!

[p0Pe]

dude... ITS GONNA FLY! i love this mod! so friggin many details:D and soooooooo many posibilities xDDDD

+rep if i can:p

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys!

Got the end caps done last night! My son fell asleep early so I was able to get into the garage sooner. :D

First I used the pods as a template for the end cap.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods51_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods51.jpg)

I wanted a 1/4" thickness all the way around, so I measured in from the edge and made marks about
every inch or so, and connected the dots.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods52_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods52.jpg)

And cut out the middle.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods53_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods53.jpg)

Then I took a 3/8" strip of styrene and glued it around the inside edge.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods54_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods54.jpg)

Trimmed off the excess and sanded the edges smooth.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods55_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods55.jpg)

Test fit. One down, three to go!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods56_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods56.jpg)

Done and done. Ahhh, uniformity!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods57_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods57.jpg)

Once I glue them into place, I will sand them down for a perfect match. I will need to do some gap filling in certain areas first.
Regarding lighting, there's not much room in behind there for leds. I'm thinking I can light them from deeper inside and just
let the glow spill out to achieve the effect. Would make for a cleaner wiring job too.

[XcOM]

looking SICK DUDE

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Awesome work! That mod is really going to fly :)
+rep for all the fiddly work.

[Vertigo]

Brilliant work man, been watching for a while and I'm still hitting refresh on the thread everyday.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great mate, fantastic detail on the pods.

[chaksq]

Very nice this mod is coming along great! +rep

[Franklin]

Made by Boddaker says it all. Most people think I have a lot of patience, but this is amazing. All those details! I love it.
(I wrote down the name of that material you use, looks like a great modding material)

[Drum Thumper]

This is right up there with Paul's Doom 3 mod in my book.

Outstanding detail!

[Boddaker]

Thanks a lot guys!


This is right up there with Paul's Doom 3 mod in my book.

Outstanding detail!

:eek: I think that's the best compliment a modder can get. Thank you! :D

I'll have an update up shortly. Got stuck doing fix-its around the house all weekend, with only a few hours last night left for modding. Most of which was planning for the week. I might get the end caps done tonight, so I can post pics of that at least. :)

[Boddaker]

Got a bit more work done on the pods' end caps. I sanded the edges down to where they look nice and even,
then I applied a bunch of spot filler around the outside as well as inside.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods58_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods58.jpg)

Let it dry, then sanded it down smooth.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods59_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods59.jpg)

A quick shot of primer shows the progress. This one needs a bit more work.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods60_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods60.jpg)

That's it for this update!

[The boy 4rm oz]

Nice, yay painting lol.

[Boddaker]

Well, I can't really do much more with the pods until I get the mesh in. I want to get those in before
attaching them to the side panels, and that is the next step. So I thought I would put them aside and
continue work on the front bezel. Here are a couple teaser pics, as there are a lot more (yes, I've been holding out!). :p

I removed the mesh from the door and marked the area to be cut.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel1.jpg)

...and cut it out with my trusty jig saw.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel2.jpg)

Here is a shot of it back on the case, stripped of its anodization, and with some added framework I built
using aluminum flat bar. I neglected to record the actual cutting and bending for this, but that is all
basic stuff and you didn't want to be bored with that anyways. It utilizes the original mounting holes for
the mesh on the reverse side of the door.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel4.jpg)

The idea is to provide support for the lcd screens and the slot loading DVD drive. More on the layout later. ;)
The Stacker's original power button/reset/usb/audio port assembly will return to its original location,
but with some modifications (of course!). Again, more on that later, as pics will better illustrate what
I have planned. :twisted:

I'm sure most of you are happy to see something new and different other than more engine pod updates!
I know I am! The detailing and such can get very monotonous and repetitive, which is why I'm trying
to liven things up here and posting something different and refreshing!

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks nice buddy. Are you going to be using A.C Ryan MeshX? If so, it's great to use, easy to cut and paint.

[Boddaker]

Looks nice buddy. Are you going to be using A.C Ryan MeshX? If so, it's great to use, easy to cut and paint.

The mesh I got lined up is something very similar to ACRyan's stuff. Should work out really well!

[Boddaker]

LCD Screens

As I mentioned before, and a few of you picked up on it, I will be mounting multiple LCD screens
in the front of the case. Now it's not what you may think, as these screens are only 2.5" and will be mounted
in a cluster-like fashion, similar to the data readout display seen on Galactica's bridge. I will try to
find a screenshot of it so you get a better idea of where I'm coming from.
After measuring the width of the front opening, I came up with this design for the screen mounting assembly.
This is one of the rare times I actually drew it out on paper, due to its complexity! lol
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD1.jpg)

Again, I neglected to take pics of the actual bending and pop riveting, but here's the end result.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD2.jpg)

The triangular ends are 1/8" styrene.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD3.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD4.jpg)

Since the screens are just the LCD modules and didn't come with any sort of enclosure, I made some pockets
for them. Here are the pieces...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD5a_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD5.jpg)

...And here they are glued together.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD6.jpg)

Here's a shot of the screens by Accele-vision. I got them through Millertech. (http://www.millertech.com) Thanks Patrick!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD10.jpg)

A close up shot of one of the screens. It's got composite in (RCA), and its 12v. Has an on/off switch, as well
as horizontal and vertical flip modes.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD11.jpg)

The screen slides right into the pocket.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD12.jpg)

I made a slot in the bottom for the ribbon cable.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD13.jpg)

Here are the pockets mocked up on the mounting assembly.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD7.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD8.jpg)

And here it is temporarily taped in place on the case.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD9.jpg)

I will be adding smaller dummy screens underneath these to round out the cluster. They will just be stills printed
out on transparency and lit from behind.
The LCDs will run off an auxilliary PCI video card's S-video output. I have an S-video --> Composite adapter,
then a composite cable that splits to feed all three screens. Should turn out pretty slick!

8)

[chaksq]

Sweet this will be interesting. Glad to see more details being worked on. I think this should end up in the featured logs section.

[jdbnsn]

DUDE! That is such a kick-assed idea! That is going to look awesome man.

[The boy 4rm oz]

I agree with jbdnsn, it is gonna look sweet when you get it all together.

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys. I am getting excited myself, as I can't wait to see how the whole front will look when it's done. Sadly, I won't be able to do anything more on it for a couple days, as I am swamped until Thursday. :(

[rendermandan]

Excellent idea with the screens +rep

[xRyokenx]

Sweet screen idea dude. This mod is pretty cool, I like it. +rep

[Boddaker]

I actually got some work done on the case last night. After a stressful couple of days, modding can be quite theraputic!

I started on the framework for yet another LCD screen. This one is a 17" Samsung, and will be mounted opposite
the motherboard tray. The main purpose of this screen will be to play Galactica episodes. I plan to have them
all archived on the hard drives once season 4 is done and released on DVD. :)

First I had to remove part of the hard drive rack.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD14.jpg)

Then I made a bottom support piece out of angle aluminum.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD15.jpg)

I made a wooden template the exact size of the LCD screen to aid in the placement.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD16.jpg)

Here's a shot of the side panel in place over the wooden screen.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD17.jpg)

Next I need to make the vertical supports that will connect the top and bottom. These are the pieces the
screen will be secured to. After all is said and done, I should have about a 1/4" clearance between the screen
and mobo tray. I plan on relocating the LCD's circuit boards, which would normally reside behind the screen.

8)

[Fallen]

hm that would be nice. how are you going to run the lcd display cords?

[Boddaker]

hm that would be nice. how are you going to run the lcd display cords?

As in the DVI and power cable? They will be hidden internally, probably under the floor of the case. I have a DVI cable with a 90° end that will be perfect for routing from the back of the vid card into the case.

As far as the wiring in between the screen and circuit boards, I will have to extend some to make the relocation work.

[The boy 4rm oz]

Some nice work there mate, love this mod so far, can't wait for a final product.

[p0Pe]

ive always thought it would be cool though useless to put big screens into the side of the case, but if you have the money, go for it:D
are you going to run 3 monitors?... in which case you would have to go SLI/crossfire?
(3 monitors: the 3 small lcd´s, the 17" and a primary screen to sit on your desktop?)

and looks good as usual m8:D

[The boy 4rm oz]

I think the primary screen is the one on the side of the case. If you go SLI you are only limited to 2 screens anyway. He would probably have two cards but not linked in SLI or Crossfire, this is also the cheaper option because you can have say an 8800GTX that powers your "main" gaming monitor and the other ones could be powered off a 7600GT for example.

[Boddaker]

I have a 22" 3d monitor from iZ3D (http://iz3d.com) as my main monitor. The 17" on the side will be dedicated solely to playing BSG episodes, and the front three 2.5" screens will be the data graphical displays. Now for video cards, I will be running 3 cards: two eVGA 8800GTS cards and one e-Geforce 6200 PCI card. The two 8800's will run the main 22" monitor, and the 6200 will run the rest (17" via DVI, 2.5" via s-video split to three composite outputs).

[The boy 4rm oz]

Ha so I was right lol yay haha. Sounds good though SLI for gaming and single card for the rest.

[Drum Thumper]

Wow! This keeps getting better and better! That's a wicked idea with the screens--I might have to implement something similar in one of my mods in the future.

+rep, this is hella cool!

Edit: D'oh!, gotta spread it around a bit first...

[p0Pe]

think i will have to consider the fact of running 2 different GFX´s... since i think my x1950xt-x cost just about enough to buy another of:D

[Fallen]

hm. have the small screens display pwn data from games lol

[The boy 4rm oz]

hm. have the small screens display pwn data from games lol

That would work well cos some games like BF2142 have pre-made applets that will automatically come up on the Logitech G15 keyboard LCD. I know that the BF2142 has three pages of info (game stats, server stats etc.) you could display one page of info on each screen.

[p0Pe]

That would work well cos some games like BF2142 have pre-made applets that will automatically come up on the Logitech G15 keyboard LCD. I know that the BF2142 has three pages of info (game stats, server stats etc.) you could display one page of info on each screen.

SWEEEEEEET!

[Boddaker]

Haha that would be cool, I'll have to look into that.

So I found a screen shot of the video display cluster on the Galactica's bridge:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD_cluster_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD_cluster.jpg)

That got me itchin to see what these little screens can do. So I hooked up my eVGA Geforce 6200 pci card to make
sure i could get a signal out to the lcd's. Here's a test shot:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCDtest_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCDtest.jpg)

I will be making up a fully animated graphic sequence that will mimick the actual effects on the show.
Should come out looking pretty accurate. :)

[The boy 4rm oz]

That sure does look nice, great work.

[Fallen]

hahah sweet! +rep

[Darth Dad]

I like that.... It's gonna look sweet...

[danthegeek]

Looks great. I cant wait to see those screens in action.

-danthegeek

[floriske.nl]

Damn, I'm always jelous with people who seem to have loads of patience ;)

Awesome build with great eye for detail! +rep

[Boddaker]

Thanks floriske.nl and everyone! :D

HOLY CRAP AN UPDATE!!
It's been over a week since I've been able to get any significant work done on this thing. What with halloween and kid stuff, and waiting on parts, there hasn't really been anything to post about.

But tonight I got the three 2.5" LCD's mounted on the case, along with their controller boards.
To hold the controllers, I made this 3-tiered styrene base that will mount behind the screens.
This is so the power and composite cables will clear the board next to it.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD18.jpg)

Here they are mounted to the base.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD19.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD20_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD20.jpg)

After doing a test fit on the front panel, I had to make a little adjustment to the third tier so it would fit.
I drilled and tapped holes in the screen's mounting base, then drilled through the controller base
and the front panel frame and screwed it all together from the back.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD21_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD21.jpg)

with the controllers in place...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD22_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD22.jpg)

... and with the front panel back on the case, and LCD screens in.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD23_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD23.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD24_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD24.jpg)

View from the inside.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD25_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD25.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD26_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD26.jpg)

I will make some top caps to cover up the opening, and the gold ribbon cable. The white ribbon cable
will be disguised as conduit or something more appropriate.

I hope to get the two dummy screens made up this weekend, and then maybe I can start work on the lower BSG insignia. :)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Very very nice work mate.

[p0Pe]

nice as always:D what are you gonna do with the inside?

[Boddaker]

nice as always:D what are you gonna do with the inside?

I've got a few ideas. Think "rag-tag fleet"...

:twisted:

[Fallen]

damnage on the ship? cause in season 3 it gets the crap beat out of it plus we find out who 4 of the last five cylons are. i have a good idea who else is a cylone though

[Crimson Sky]

Hey Bod, this awesome mod should have been here sooner as well--I need to do some serious catching up on the boards. Great stuff man, can't wait to see it finished!!

-PC

[Boddaker]

Cool, thanks Crimson! :D

Sorry bout the lack of updates guys. It's been pretty hectic lately. If all goes well, I hope to have something to post tonight.

[Boddaker]

Ok, so I didn't get anything posted until now. But here's what I got accomplished over the past week. More LCD screen goodness! Check it out:

Started on the small dummy screens that will go underneath the three live ones. I cut some pieces
from some 1/4" scrap I had, roughed them up a bit, and glued them together.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD28_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD28.jpg)

Then I proceeded to make the styrene bezels. Cut the faceplate, and glued the sides on.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD29_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD29.jpg)

Then I glued the "screens" in, and drilled the hole for the led.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD30_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD30.jpg)

I skinned the back with more styrene, giving it that LCD panel look.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD31_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD31.jpg)

Next came the arduous task of figuring out how the mounting bracket would go. I must have gone
through at least 3 iterations before settling on a design I was happy with. I ended up making two pieces.
One flat aluminum bar to connect both screens...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD32_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD32.jpg)

...And one vertical piece cut from C channel to mount to the rest of the LCD bracketry.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD34_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD34.jpg)

I decided to forego the use of any screws to secure the screens to the brackets, opting to just use some styrene rod.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD35_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD35.jpg)

After cutting the rod to fit the profile of the screens, I glued them down, holding the bracket in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD36_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD36.jpg)

After some filling and sanding, here's what I got: Back side...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD37_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD37.jpg)

...And front side. All masked and ready for primer.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD39_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD39.jpg)

The whole LCD cluster primed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD40_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD40.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD41_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LCD41.jpg)

I thought I had some flat black paint somewhere, but I couldn't find any. So I will have to pick some up tomorrow.
Doesn't seem like much for a week's worth of work! Then again, my weeks have been so hectic,
my modding time has been pretty much nil. So I am thankful I got this much done.

[The boy 4rm oz]

That's some grade "A" work there mate, looks fantastic. Keep it up. +rep

[isunktheship]

Ahh I love screens, maybe when your done with yours you can do this to mine ;) I finally got that case!

[Boddaker]

OPTICAL DRIVE

I got a chance to actually do some modding over the holiday weekend. :D
After getting the LCD cluster roughed in, I started on the optical drive portion of the front panel.
I will be using a slot-loading dvd drive, mounted vertically behind the BSG logo insignia. Once finished,
you will be able to see the disc turning through the insignia.

So to start, I removed the top cover of the drive.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL1.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL2.jpg)

Here's a shot of a disc inserted half way.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL3.jpg)

Taking the top cover out to the garage, I used a CD as a template and scored a line around it to mark my cut.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL4.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL5.jpg)

..and proceeded to cut out the window.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL6.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL7.jpg)

I also had to cut out the center and save it because it plays a role in disc alignment.
The blue is a piece of plexi I cut to size and taped up. It will be glued to the top of the windowed cover.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL8.jpg)

Setting that aside, I started making the mounting brackets.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL9.jpg)

Here I am using a spare drive for positioning the brackets onto the front panel frame.
Wouldn't want to get any rogue metal shavings in the windowed drive's mechanisms.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL10.jpg)

After marking the optimum position, I drilled the holes and secured the brackets with pop rivets.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL11.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL12.jpg)

The drive in place.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL13.jpg)

The base for the insignia over the drive. It's just sitting on there for now.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL14.jpg)

Here's the rest of the insignia. Thanks to Brian at Moddersmart (http://www.moddersmart.com) for getting all these pieces laser
etched and cut for me. 8) Basically, in order to get a 3 dimensional look, I had him cut several layers
so I could build the height up. Some parts will be painted, like the center winged figure and the outer
edge pieces. Then the background will be kept clear so you can see the drive in behind.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL15.jpg)

Here's a side shot showing the slot loading drive face.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL16.jpg)

I'd like to get some red led's in there that light up when a disc is inserted. Probably just re-route
the drive's activity led or something.
I still have a lot of work to do on those insignia pieces, rounding the edges and gluing them down.
And it needs its own mounting bracketry too, cause I want to keep it separate from the optical drive.
After that I can start on the ribbing/armoring phase of the front panel. That will fill in all the areas
around the LCD cluster and insignia. Should look pretty hot when done!

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks fantastic mate, very nice work. +rep

[jdbnsn]

Congrats on making it into the modcast!

[Boddaker]

wow thanks for the modcast feature!! Thats awesome. :D

[rendermandan]

Boddaker, your doing some excellent work here. I love the 3d lazer cut logo!!!
+rep edit: gotta spread it around first :)

[Boddaker]

Ok update time! Work on the insignia and optical drive continues...

I managed to round the corners of all the little edge pieces and get them glued down to the etched ring.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL17.jpg)

The center consists of three pieces to be layered for that 3 dimensional look.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL18.jpg)

Here they are stacked up.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL19.jpg)

I added a secondary bracket that will hold the insignia in place over the optical drive.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL20_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL20.jpg)

Here's a shot of the inside of the assembled cover with the clear plexi (blue masking tape is on the other side of the plexi).
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL21_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL21.jpg)

And here is the assembled drive mounted with the tape removed.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL22_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL22.jpg)

The whole insignia together. Center piece is not glued on yet.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL23_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL23.jpg)

Insignia on top of the windowed optical drive.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL24_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL24.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL25_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SL25.jpg)

The insignia won't stay totally clear. I will be painting everything but the background in the center.
The leds that will light up the drive will be inset behind the center piece hidden from sight. Should
light up the drive internals quite well, and give a nice back-lit effect as well. I just gotta figure out
how to run the wires and integrate a small switch to activate them when the disc is inserted.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks FANTASTIC!! Will you be lighting it? Top notch work mate. +rep

[Roughhouse]

Hot Damn

[Boddaker]

Will you be lighting it?

Read the last paragraph. :P

[The boy 4rm oz]

Haha sorry mate, must have over read that part. Can't wait to see what it looks like.

[Boddaker]

Got a bunch of work done over the weekend! :D

Worked on the I/O panel and pwr/reset buttons. I basically re-used the Stacker's pwr/reset button housing,
and the I/O panel right below it. I'm pretty much putting them in the same location as they were stock,
just formed to the case and landing bay.
Here's the pwr/reset panel mocked up with the landing bay.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel1.jpg)

And here's the rough position of the lower IO panel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel2.jpg)

Taking a sheet of plexi, I drew out my cut lines using the actual pieces.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel3.jpg)

I cut just on the other side of the lines...
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel4.jpg)

...And trim to fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel5.jpg)

Once it was glued in place, I scuffed the whole thing with my orbital.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel6.jpg)

Then threw on the bondo.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel7.jpg)

Sanded it down and sprayed a coat of primer to see where I was at. Almost there!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel8.jpg)

I bondo'ed the bottom side as well, then added the IO panel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel9.jpg)

Trimmed the plexi to fit, and added a touch of filler.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel10.jpg)

Another coat of primer, and it's looking pretty good.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel11.jpg)

Here it is on the case with the landing bay.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel12_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel12.jpg)


http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel13.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/IOpanel14.jpg)

That's where I'm at. The whole assembly will be removable along with the landing bay. The lower IO panel
covers up the screws that secure the front lcd/optical assembly on. I dont want to paint myself into a corner,
so I gotta keep in mind how this case will come apart.
I'll probably secure both the landing bay and the floor/IO panel/pwr-reset panel to the top of the case with
four bolts, one at each corner. That's what I'll be doing next (tonight if I can get back in the garage!).

8)

[danthegeek]

Looks awesome. You have been working on this a long time and you are doing and outstanding job.

-dan

[Boddaker]

Thanks Dan! I am hoping it will start going a bit faster here real soon. I am almost done with the major fabrication work. Just a few more pieces to go.

8)

[IndyRacer27]

That thing is looking awesome! You're doing a great job on this.

[Boddaker]

Well, I almost got the front panel finished over the weekend, but as always, I come up with more
ideas and have no choice but to act on them (I swear it will be my undoing!). In the process of
filling in the areas around the insignia, lcd cluster, and IO panel, I felt the need to add more detail
elements (why break precedent, right?) These details will give more depth to the front panel,
which will be consistent with the side panels and landing bay.

So I started making a box with styrene, and threw in some wood dowels and acrylic rod for good measure.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel5_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel5.jpg)

This box will be located just under the insignia and dvd drive.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel6_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel6.jpg)

From the front, it looks like a bunch of conduit running up through the panel. It will get the rib treatment
and more styrene to cover up the left and right sides.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel7_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel7.jpg)

Just below that, the BSG ligature will be placed. I cut a styrene frame to mark its location.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel8_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel8.jpg)

And here it is roughed in. This was laser cut from 1/8" black acrylic. Thanks again to Brian from ModdersMart!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel9_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel9.jpg)

Here is a closer shot. I should have put the ruler in the frame for reference, but the entire ligature is only 4" wide. :eek:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel10_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel10.jpg)

Before I permanently glue the lettering down, I wanted to lay down the remaining armor panels.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel11_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel11.jpg)

So no, the front panel is not done, but it's getting there! If I can restrain myself from making this thing
more complicated, I might actually finish it this week. lol Stay tuned...

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great mate, fantastic work.

[jdbnsn]

That title looks awesome, this mod is blowing me away! BTW- love the sig.

[Franklin]

I see another Hall of Fame casemod here. I will eat both my shoes if this doesn't end up in it.

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys! :D

@ Franklin, I hope you dont have to eat your shoes. lol!

[Boddaker]

FRONT PANEL ALMOST DONE!!

I got a bunch of work done on the front panel over the holidays! So without further ado, here are the pics! :)
After finishing the bottom conduit box, I began to extend it on both sides to meet up with the curving panel.
I also added ribs to look like they run vertically underneath the panel and terminate at the insignia.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel14.jpg)

Here's a shot looking down into the conduit box. You can see I made it tall enough so the bottom cannot be seen.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel13.jpg)

Here is the top conduit box that will go above the insignia. Sorry I didn't realize it was upside down when I took the pic.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel15.jpg)

Here it is in its place behind the lcd screens.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel16.jpg)

I made a 1/8" styrene bulkhead for it to mount to.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel17.jpg)

Once that was in place, the arduous skinning process continued for both sides. A lot of test fitting was necessary
to get them to fill in the areas with no gaps or overlaps.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel18.jpg)

I glued a strip of styrene ribbing down the edges of the front panel to raise the armor up even with the side panels.
You will see how they go together once I get them on the case for a trial fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel19.jpg)

Almost completely covered up.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel20_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel20.jpg)

The second layer of armor paneling goes on, same as before.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel21_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel21.jpg)

After many hours, here is the result.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel24_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel24.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel23_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel23.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel22_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel22.jpg)

I just have the top section to do, behind the LCD screens, which I will finish up tomorrow.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Mate this is FANTASTIC!, everything looks great. I love your work. +rep

[IndyRacer27]

This mod is incredible!

[jdbnsn]

I see another Hall of Fame casemod here. I will eat both my shoes if this doesn't end up in it.

Hmmmm....this puts me in a fun situation...but I can't let that fate befall my good friend. However, don't you wear wooden shoes? ;)

Thou shalt be featured! (when complete that is)

[Boddaker]

Thanks guys. :)

@ jdbnsn: wow, and I thought getting moved to the Featured Logs section was a significant feat! It would be an honor and a privilege to be considered for the TBCS hall of fame. So much so that it has given me new motivation to work on this even more! Thanks man! :D

[Tech-Daddy]

Dont rush it! You just keep doin what you are doin.... ;)

Frakken outstanding work!
(Little BSG reference there for those not paying attention... )
:D

[Boddaker]

Thanks TD! :D

A bit more work done on the top, between the LCD screens and IO panel. This is taking longer than I anticipated,
mostly due to the near-freezing temperatures we've had here lately. I was hoping to have all this done days ago.

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel25_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel25.jpg)

I cut the side pieces so they fit around the IO panel.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel26_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel26.jpg)

Then made another piece to go in between them. Tacked them in place, then used bondo to reinforce the joints.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel27_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel27.jpg)

This last shot shows the pieces without the screens in place. I also sanded down the joints.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel28_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel28.jpg)

Still have to add the armor panels, and fit the pieces around the landing bay. Work continues!

[Boddaker]

Finished the rest of the top section of the front panel tonight!

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel29_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel29.jpg) http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel30_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Frontpanel30.jpg)

8)

[p0Pe]

looks awsome m8!... this will be my last post until next year, and this was the update i hoped on:D gonna look unreal when painted xD

happy new yeah m8!

[The boy 4rm oz]

Holy cow, this looks fantastic.

[Boddaker]

Got the mesh in, so I started on fitting it into the engine pods. I wanted a recessed cone shape,
so it was a bit more involved than just cutting out a basic shape.

Started with a piece of mesh..
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods61_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods61.jpg)

..cut into it on one side and overlapped it to make a cone shape.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods62_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods62.jpg)

The more you overlap it, the sharper the cone. This is about where I need to be.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods63_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods63.jpg)

This shot shows the overlap, and how I'm able to match the hexagons pretty closely.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods64_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods64.jpg)

Starting to cut it down to size, bending it as I go.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods65_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods65.jpg)

Cut down even more. Now I can stick it into the pod for a trial fit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods66_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods66.jpg)

After a few trial fits, I just need to trim a bit here and there.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods67_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods67.jpg)

Done. Looks pretty good!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods68_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods68.jpg)

I've decided to take the easy route with the lighting, and just put a couple white cathodes inside the
side panels throwing light into the pods. That should spill enough out the back, and I won't have to
worry about wiring up individual leds in the center cones like I was planning earlier.

I should be able to finally mount the pods to the side panels within the next day or so. Next update
will show the mounting plates being made, and how they'll go on the side panels.

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Looks great man, hex mesh looks so cool.

[|NQ|Squelsh]

Wow! Perfect fit, looks cool.

[Boddaker]

As promised, the pod mounting plate construction:

Here are the pods positioned on the side panel. I guess I got a little carried away when I
applied the ribbing on the side panels all those months ago. Turns out I had to remove some
of them around the area where the pods are. Oh well, at least it's only one side.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods69_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods69.jpg)

I took a sheet of 1/8" styrene, set it behind the pods and traced a line.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods70_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods70.jpg)

Putting my new christmas present to immediate and good use! :D
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods71_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods71.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods72_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods72.jpg)

Here's that sheet after cutting, including air vent holes.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods73_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods73.jpg)

And here are the pods in place over the mounting plate.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods74_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods74.jpg)

Once glued in place, I can then go in and add ribbing around the pods, and addtional armor plating here and there.
But before I permanently stick the pods on, I still need to do some work to the side panels. I'll get the other side
ready to go too, and do them both at the same time. That will be in the next update, hopefully by the weekend.

8)

[jdbnsn]

Those pods look amazing, this is going to be a masterpiece!

[Cannibal23]

i have a quick question about the plasti-paste stuff you used. i know with many plastics used in pc cases you can use the same glue used to fix plexiglass togeather to bond with case plastics. i was wondering if works with this plasti paste stuff as well. any experiance with that?

[Drew]

Looks amazing - love the pods.

[IndyRacer27]

Fantastic work, it just keeps getting better.

[Boddaker]

Sorry I haven't been able to respond the last couple days. That storm that came through the north state on Friday really packed a wallop. 60-70mph winds coupled with heavy rains took out hundreds of trees and power lines, rendering most of the city powerless for days, including our house. We had to transfer all perishables from the fridge to ice chests, and endure 56° temps in the house for two days.

Well, power finally got restored this morning, so I can finally get some work done out in the garage. I really wanted to get those pods on the side panels by this weekend, but it looks like that won't happen for another couple days. Gotta step up the pace to try and make up lost time now.



i have a quick question about the plasti-paste stuff you used. i know with many plastics used in pc cases you can use the same glue used to fix plexiglass togeather to bond with case plastics. i was wondering if works with this plasti paste stuff as well. any experiance with that?

I am using a CA glue (cyanoacrylate) for the styrene and it seems to adhere well to the plasti paste too. I used it to glue all the ribbing onto the top of the landing bay.

[Boddaker]

Well, here's what I got done tonight. A small, but significant update, as this documents the
ceremonial joining of the engine pods and side panels! :banana:

I first glued them down after roughing up the surface of the aluminum a bit.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods75_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods75.jpg)

After they set up, I applied copious amounts of bondo around them, filling in all the gaps.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods76_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Pods76.jpg)

Here is one side on the case, after adding the armor panels.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP13_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP13.jpg)

And a closeup shot showing how I had to fit the armor to the shape of the pods.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP14_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP14.jpg)

Not much, like I said. But significant none the less! I plan on getting the second armor layer
done tomorrow, and then hopefully a good jump on the armor for the other side.

[The boy 4rm oz]

That looks so cool how it has all fitted together. Fantastic work as always, keep it up.

[Boddaker]

More work done on the side panels!

Got the second layer of armor paneling down. Here's one of the sections penciled out.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP15_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP15.jpg)

..And a shot after gluing it down and removing the left overs.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP16_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP16.jpg)

After getting the side panels to a point where they look half way decent, I thought I would take a few shots
of the whole case together. It's good for me to take a step back every so often and get an overall view of it
as a computer case. I've been so close to it ever since I started, working on small sections by themselves,
that I forgot how important that is. :)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit1.jpg)
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit2.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit3_sm.jpg
(http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit3.jpg) http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit4_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit4.jpg)

Still got a long way to go, but it's real nice to see that the pieces actually fit together. lol!

8)

[The boy 4rm oz]

The whole case looks great together. This is truly an amazing mod.

[Tech-Daddy]

I need a towel....

[The boy 4rm oz]

I need a towel....

Here, use mine lol.

[_ferry_]

Damn, your work is amazing.

Especially this shot:
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/Dryfit3.jpg.
Add some light in them, and everyone would think he can really fly at lightspeed ;)

1 question/idea: Have you tried to make a cone mold, and hammer the mesh into the mold? I don't know if that could work, but if it's working you won't have a cutting line in the mesh.

[Boddaker]

1 question/idea: Have you tried to make a cone mold, and hammer the mesh into the mold? I don't know if that could work, but if it's working you won't have a cutting line in the mesh.

Thanks ferry :D

That method might work, but there is the possibility of distorting the mesh when shaping it. I guess it would depend on the steepness of the cone, and the hardness of the mesh. This stuff was quite flexible so it might work. :)

[_ferry_]

Okay, then i will might give it a try:)
Since i have to make a grill, and flat mesh doesn't look as great as mesh which is bent in the shape of it. I've got AC ryan hexx mesh, quite flexible as well.

[Boddaker]

So I took a little break from the side panel detailing to work on the landing bay a bit more. I need to
secure it down to the case somehow, so I came up with a simple frame that will bolt to the case,
and the landing bay will bolt to that. Here's what I got so far:

Bent two pieces of aluminum flat bar.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB138_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB138.jpg)

Bent them so they follow the contour of the landing bay's ceiling.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB139_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB139.jpg)

Left enough length at the ends to extend down into the case at the sides.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB140_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB140.jpg)

Positioned them so they pick up existing holes in the case frame that are already countersunk.
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB141_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB141.jpg)

Here's a shot of the test fit, looking in from the back. If this case does any racing, I got SAE certified roll bars installed! lol
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB142_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/LB142.jpg)

Once I get the roll bars fastened to the case, I can drill holes through the top of the landing bay,
then conceal them with some stealthy armor panel covers.

---------------
TEASER SHOT!
---------------

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD1_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD1.jpg)

This is a partial inventory as I dont have all the parts yet, but this will go inside the case once assembled.

:twisted:

[The boy 4rm oz]

Ooooo, I like teaser shots. They always mean something good is going to happen lol. Awesome work as always.

[Boddaker]

Well, I'm still alive, and slowly getting back to working on this thing. What with the cold rainy weather and the whole fam-damily being sick all week, I've been hard pressed to get into the garage at all.
I did manage to bring some panels into the house so I could apply more detail pieces in between coughing fits, so all was not totally lost I guess. lol I'll try to get some pics posted later.

In the mean time, here's another teaser shot. Basically, all the parts in the first teaser assembled (and no, its not a dual res! lol).
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD2_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD2.jpg)

[OvRiDe]

Hope you get to feeling better! I am totally stumped by the teaser. :|

[Boddaker]

Ok here's what I got to show ya. While I was laid up in the house, I managed to get some details
put on the side panels. Of course my son had to lend me a helping hand. He turned out to be a pretty good sander! :D

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP17_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP17.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP18_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP18.jpg)

http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP19_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/SP19.jpg)

I got both side panels detailed, as well as the front panel. Once I get a coat of primer on them I will
take some more shots. (primer always makes things look so much better!)

---------------
TEASER #3
---------------

Here is the unit installed in the case. Actually, this thing won't even be seen once the case is finished!
http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD3_sm.jpg (http://www.bods-mods.com/BSG/BD3.jpg)

[The boy 4rm oz]

Man those panels look awesome. I'm not pro slave labor but if it works it works ;).

[Wecrookie]

I've been watching this with great interest.

your commitment,skill,workmanship and attention to detail to this is awesome:bowdown:

Can't wait 'till you finish it.

yours wecrookie:eek: