This is my
most recent project, the 1/32 scale Revell/Monogram RF-4C Phantom II. The
kit has a few areas that needed to be addressed in order to enhance its
accuracy, but all in all, it was a very enjoyable build.
For
aftermarket goodies, I started with the Verlinden RF-4C update set.
This was a real disappointment, and in my opinion, the only parts that are
of any value are the sidewalls. The photo etched parts for the missing cockpit
sills are too narrow. Consequently, I ended up scratch building sills
using sheet plastic, then added some left over photo etched parts for the
details on the inside sill edges. Additionally, I used the Eduard F-4
MB MK 7 colored photo etch set for the ejection seats, and I highly
recommend this set. It made the job of adding the seat belts a lot
easier! The cockpit tub is much too deep, so I performed some surgery and
raised the floor.
Rather than buying
aftermarket FOD covers for the air intakes, I bought a set of Seamless Sucker
intakes. These were somewhat tricky to fit correctly, and I had a heck of
a time getting them installed properly. In the future, I think I'll stick
with FOD covers.
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images below to see larger images
I rescribe d
some of the panel lines that were missing, in particular the photoflash
cartridge doors on both sides of the rear of the fuselage, as well as some
missing lines on the vertical stabilizer. The auxiliary intake doors were
cut open and glued in the open position, and the brackets on the bottom of the
inboard wing pylons were scratch built, as there were none included with the
kit.
The outboard
trailing edge flaps were cut and repositioned in a slightly downward position,
which is normal for parked Phantoms due to slowly decreasing hydraulic pressure.
The cameras did not include any lenses, so I added them using the clear seeker
heads from some Maverick missiles I had left over from a Trumpeter A-10.
The ALQ-119 pod also came from the A-10 kit, as the shape of the pod included
with the Phantom was too round at the front.
The kit was painted
with Model Master Enamels, and I used left over decals from various AirDoc,
Icarus, and CAM sheets I had in my stash. A black wash was applied to
accentuate the panel lines, and everything was sealed with a cote of Testors
DullCote. I posted numerous "In Progress" photos on the forums
which can be seen at the following link: http://www.arcforums.com/forums/air/index.php?showtopic=146331.
Thanks to all who
offered their critique and encouragement!
John
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