1/48 transformation problem

[Slugworth]

I did a search but couldn't really find a solution to this.

I've had my 1/48 Hikaru VF-1S for a while now and its been in robot mode at my desk at work. I've only transformed it once (fighter to robot). But everyone that walks by my desk begs me to transform it. One guy just stares in awe at it. So finally I caved in.

So now my problem. I can't seem to fit the shoulder under the chest area when going back to fighter mode. There are two little tabs on the underside that look like they are supposed to lock the shoulder base into place after swinging the arm around. Right now, the arms are very flimsy and hang down. I also can't attach the gun because of this. With everything fitting so well, I highly doubt the arms are supposed to be this loose. And I don't remember how it looked when I took it out of the package. I have used quite a bit of force, but no dice. Using any more force will probably break it.

The directions don't show a very clear picture of this step, which I think is a pretty crucial step. I realize this is difficult to explain without a photograph. Anyone know how to handle this?

Edited April 23, 2005 by Slugworth

[Zentrandude]

the swing bar locks the shoulders up but think the problem is with the pegs on the legs that lock the arms up is not engaged to the arms

[Die, Alien Scum!]

If you're talking about these tabs, I've never been able to fit the shoulder hinge over them, on any of my 1/48s. Do what Zentrandude said and lock the pegs on the inner legs into the recessed holes on the forearm just behind the wrist.

Edited April 23, 2005 by Die, Alien Scum!

[Die, Alien Scum!]

The top of the picture shows the peg on the leg and the shallow hole on the forearm. The bottom is what you're looking to get to. It's actually easiest to lock the arms together with the gunpod between them and move them as a single piece. Spread the legs out a touch and lower the arms. Squeeze the legs inward and the pegs will find the holes. It should hold, even with the strap on the gunpod. Sorry about the lack of detail on the leg peg, but I wanted to show off my custom VF-1AJ! LOL!

Edited April 23, 2005 by Die, Alien Scum!

[Slugworth]

Wow, nice images. Those were indeed the pegs I was wondering about. I guess I was doing it correctly then. Yes, with the gun attached between the arms, it does hold together better.