Tyrannosaurs or Tyrannosauroidea is the Family of Dinosaurs the T-Rex belongs. The Tyrannosaurus Rex had a highly developed sense of smell, binocular vision and bone crushing teeth. Their jaws could produce a pressure of 3,000 lbs. per square inch! A car crushing machine produces 2,000 lbs. per square inch.
In the last fifteen years researchers have recovered nearly 20 New Tyrannosaur species at locations the world over – China, England, the Arctic Circle and the Gobi Desert. The Tyrannosaurs were an ancient group that originated more than 100 Million Years before Tyrannosaurus Rex! The first Tyrannosaurs were no more than human size. They stayed small for another 80 million years. Allosaurus was King during part of that time. Once they started growing Bigger, Stronger and Meaner they reached the top of the food chain and Ruled the Earth for the Final 20 Million Years of the Age of Dinosaurs.
For more history on the Tyrannosaurs check out (available at the Camarillo Library):
“The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of a Lost World” by Steve Brusatte.
It’s time for Our Newest Tyrannosaur to get some color and outdoor protection from the weather. It’s always important to have the right tools and protective wear. I always wear a hat to avoid too much sun. Eye wear, mask and gloves protect you from loose rust in the air during the wire brushing and makes it easier to handle your dinosaur. The sun can make the metal hot to touch. You may find details in your dinosaur that were covered by the rust while wire brushing. As I have mentioned during all the dinosaur makeovers, you may like the look without painting. If so, I still recommend the wire brushing and a clear coat to protect your dinosaur from the elements. Check with your Home Improvement Center or the paint manufacturer for the proper clear coat material. I discovered a brush clear coat could not be used on bare metal. However, the same manufacturers clear coat spray product could.
I place the Dinosaur on its side to clean the bottom of the frame and reach inside the legs when possible. Depending on how long it has been sitting at its home prior to your adoption, you may find lots of spider webs, weeds or other objects that you will want to remove. A brush and a vacuum are very handy in these situations. After the wire brushing, a dusting brush and blower are very helpful to cleanup the dinosaur and work area. Now it’s time for the Acid Wash. This removes most if not all the remaining rust. Depending on the metal your dinosaur may be a bright silver after this step. Have the proper tools to protect yourself – appropriate clothing, hat, gloves & eye wear. I acid wash with the dinosaur on its side first. Again, to clean the bottom of the frame and easier access to the underside. It allows the material to drain when you stand it back up to finish. Let set over night.
After overnight with the acid wash, starting with it on its side use water, brush and a towel to clean up the excess material. I use a bucket to help conserve water. Any leftover water can be used in the garden. Upright to finish cleaning and to allow to completely dry. Depending on your dinosaur and weather conditions this could be another day. This is another opportunity to evaluate the look and clear coat at this step if you desire. Rust-Oleum’s Rust Reformer provides a nice first coat and seals all remaining rust that it covers. The flat black finish can be a very scary look for your dinosaur and could be another place to stop and clear coat.
If you decide to continue, Rust-Oleum’s Rusty Brown or White Primer adds another layer of protection. Same deal on the side first. Make sure you follow the instructions on the can to get the best finish with the products.
Stay Tuned for the Addition of some Cool Colors to make this Tyrannosaur look Alive!
Thanks to Mountain Vista Elementary School This Dinosaur has a Name “Max”! Although it will be “Max” short for “Maximilian”! You know Tyrannosaurs have Very Large Heads & Egos. Thank You Ms. Berrington and Your Kindergarten Class for helping with the Dinosaur Names Activity. Go Wildcats!
The two Raptors are still considering Names! You still have Time to email Your Suggestions to paul@paulsprehistoricpark.com
Thanks for Your Ideas!
Thanksgiving is just around the corner! You can use Your Pumpkin Carving Skills to make Thanksgiving Theme Pumpkins! We will be doing just that this Weekend at the Park!
“Encouraging the Appreciation of Art and Education through the Inspiration of Dinosaurs”
Paul & Prehistoric Pals
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