I want to build Cowl for my Pheaton II, since the one that Balsa USA sells for this model is horrible.

I have never done it before. I heard that a bottle of coke or any other bottle that fits would do. However, do I just make it fit and paint it? or do I have to reinforce it with something else?
Wouldn't the heat from the engine melt the plastic bottle?

I would apreciate any suggestions on this.

Thank you,

Paul