Kotare Spitfire PR IV

[BlrwestSiR]

I picked up the AIMS PR Spitfire conversion set when it first came out a couple (more?) years back. It was designed for the Revell Spitfire MkII kit which was at the time the most up to date early Spitfire kit. 

Then Kotare came out with their MkI kits.  Having picked up a second copy on clear out at one of the local shops, I figured that it might be the better candidate for the AIMS conversion instead. A quick comparison showed that it was definitely feasible.

Then more recently, Model Maker released a set of masks for Spitfire BR416. This was a PR IV that services in Malta and carried anl distinctive Blue over White camo scheme. To tip things over the edge, @Martinnfb sent me the Aboukir filter needed. 

So here we are.  

The kit:

The markings:

The conversion:

The filter:

One more piece, the extended wingtips:

[BlrwestSiR]

First up, the cockpit. I did a test fit of the major components to see what needed modification, if any. 

At the same time, I drilled out all the lightening holes in the frames. 

Then the relevant areas were painted in silver. 

[BlrwestSiR]

Trying a different approach, I used the new AK Real Color markers for the RAF Grey-Green areas. This was much faster than masking them off. 

First coat looks a bit meh:

Much better after a second one:

The IP needs a couple instruments removed from the upper side.

After scraping them off, I did a bit of touch-up with some Mr Surfacer.

 

[BlrwestSiR]

While that was drying, I started on the wings. 

The main spar and wheel wells were glued in. 

I then added the upper wings. I trimmed off the outer wingtips. Here's one side done. 

The Tamiya wingtip is just about a perfect fit. 

I then filled in the MG access panels on the lower side. I initially started with Mr Surfacer but switched to CA as it dried faster. 

I did the same on the upper side as well as filling in the MG barrel openings. For this I used some Wave tapered plastic rod. It fills the holes perfectly. 

[Martinnfb]

What a great idea, following with interest.

Cheers

Martin

[Count0]

8 hours ago, BlrwestSiR said:

Wave tapered plastic rod

You can do the same thing with the cast off ends of stretched sprue. For free. 👍👍

[belugawhaleman]

I have that kit and I was concerned about the part that is used to make up the spine of the rear fuselage.. Will it fit well....we'll see.

Interesting conversation... Nice work so far😀

[DocRob]

Nice work on the Spitfire, Carl. She will be a beauty in white and blue. Thanks about mentioning how the AK markers work. I have some on the way right now, including GB interior green for my Kotare Spitfire.

Cheers Rob