One of the first details to be addressed is the way we will be modeling the hood door latches. They will not be simply etched into the brass sheet as has been the case with many models in the past. Our SD45s will have more realistic latch castings where the latches should be.

The latch area will be thoroughly etched out as shown in this picture. (The picture quality here is not very good and it will be replaced with a better shot soon)

Here we see the latch castings inserted into the openings. They will be soldered in once in place. (these were inserted for this shot, however they are all upside down and will be turned around before being soldered) Regardless of their orientation in this picture, the appearance is far superior to an etched latch.