JohnB

I considered folding the wings but decided I didn't want to fight that weird wing fold setup. Sure would take up less room though! Big model.

Not too bad at all Peter. Fingers crossed for no problems down the road.

Wings on! I was pleasantly surprised they snapped into place nicely. Please pardon the crummy photo(s).

Just about ready to attach the wings.

Respirator?!! We don't need no stinkin respirator!!! LOL Get a good one Ernie.

Sure looking good Peter!

I'd be in for a Traders Board too.

As I would like to finish my TBM as a -3E I would need a radar pod. Do any of you know if anyone makes one in 1/32?

Thanks Jeff. I used some thinned Tamiya acrylic black to accent the folds, etc. Works fine. John

Thanks very much MARU.

Damn Trumpeter and their uberfiddly crap! Working (or TRYING to) on the wings. There are several PE pieces to attach to the wing stubs and outer wings. Also some silly soft "hinges" for the ailerons with more PE fiddly bits. For me they have a pretty high cuss-factor. My all-thumbs clumsiness doesn't make it any easier. Okay, rant over.

Welcome MARU. Looks like a lot of folks are making the change.

Thanks Ernie. Not a bad kit to build.

I think I have that sorted out so NOW I can move on to the wings.

Thanks Peter. It always seems to be SOMETHING".

Due to some poor fit I had to pop off the engine and firewall and remove the remaining two supports. They aren't needed unless you are opening the accessory panel. I also left off some of the parts for the rear fuselage as they are practically invisible when the fuselage halves are joined. Just use the necessary stuff and forget about all the superfluous parts. More photos soon.

Thanks guys. Now to clean up some seams and then it's on to the wings.

Success!

As it turns out the turret fit was no sweat although you have to have the glass "dome" in place. It won't "drop in place" after the lower portion is cemented in place. The worst problem was the firewall/forward fuselage fit. I had to cut two of the mounts to allow it to line up correctly. And of course we ALWAYS knock some pieces loose when fitting, etc. Easy fix though.

Congrats on the win!

That's correct Ernie but, after doing some test fitting, I don't think it will be a problem with this kit (I HOPE).

We will soon know guys. I have my fingers and toes crossed!

Thanks Peter. I hope to have the fuselage closed up soon then it's on to the wings. At first glance they just might be a bit fiddly with a bit of a cuss-factor. We shall see!

Progress so far. I'll mount the turret assembly to the cockpit sub assembly then attach all that to the fuselage halves. So far fit has been good. I didn't bother with the stuff behind the engine bay as it would not be visible later.

I hear that Peter! It never fails. LOL