Since the engine is larger, I decided that the plane would need a larger tail too. I heightened the tail using some plastic strip, then added a longer fin filet. The rudder was removed and enlarged, too.
Then came the contouring of the dorsal spine and the erasing of engraved markings...yay putty!
all smoothed out
Every take-off has a landing...some are just better than others
Since im re-figuring the SBD as a ship destroyer--low and fast--the plane would need greater maneuverability at the lower altitudes. That was my thought process, anyway
Attached the new engine and mocked up a new canopy design, too. Obviously some tweaking remains.
Every take-off has a landing...some are just better than others
got things shaped and blended in to my liking, then shot it with a base coat of dark brown. Had to touch up a couple of little spots, but soon things were on their way!
Im using the dark base as a sort of pre-shade. Yes, this is by hand
how it looks finished
and topside, using the same methods
Every take-off has a landing...some are just better than others
Wouh, that is smart! Would never ever thought a shampoo bottle cap would be used as very central piece of scratchbuilding!
And good looking interior indeed!
- Kari
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On the bench:
TBM-3 Avenger 1:48 by Accurate Miniatures
SBD-5 Dauntless 1:48 by Academy
F2A Buffalo 1:48 by Special Hobby