1:32 Trumpeter F4F-4 Wildcat

[Mish]

It's been a while since my last large scale build, this is due to other smaller projects and a serious loss of mojo. Anyway, mojo restored this will be my next build.

 

 

She will be built as an Atlantic bird from USS Ranger circa 1942 using Techmod decals. As Trumpeter don't provide either moulded or Photo Etch I will be using some Fabric and PE belts from HGW, and she will be painted using MR. PAINT.

 

Here's the after market bits:

 

 

The fuselage halves to judge the size

 

 

Realising that a 6 inch square space on the bench will not be big enough it was time for a tidy up.

 

The bench cleared for action

 

 

Anyway, my progress. Started on the cockpit and it all goes together well but to me sadly lacking in detail. I know the Wildcat was a basic aircraft but there is just something missing from the kit. The painting guide is non-existent so I will need to refer to references to get the cockpit right.

 

 

 

Later today I will tackle the seat harness and side frames along with a bit of weathering.

[BevanBrooks]

Great start.

[stehlingsg]

You go Girl! I will be following this as I have one in my stash.

 

Gonzo

[rkranias]

A great kit, watching

[Mish]

Thank's guys.

 

Thanks but it way too late now, anyway it's 100% better than what Trumpeter suggest.

Anyway on with my build. Spent the morning making up the HGW seat belts, and yes I know the belt should go over the bar behind the seat but it's moulded and I'm not that good at scratch building.

 

 

 

Next, I've put the side Panels in and again had to guess at the colours.

 

 

 

This afternoon I started work on the engine.

 

 

I still have to put the heads in place and I will add the ignition leads.