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This
model was built OOB apart from seat belts and antenna wire which were scratch
built. The photos were taken with my video camera.
Background
The
last of the Allison-engine Mustangs to be produced was the P-51A. This version
had an updated engine that enhanced its performance. While still not a match for
the performance of the Spitfire or Messerschmitt 109, it went on to compile an
excellent service record. As a fighter, a limited escort, and reconnaissance
aircraft, the “A” model served primarily in the China-Burma-India theater.
They flew with the 10th Air Force, 311th FG and 1st
Air Commando Group. Over 300 P-51A’s were produced with 50 going to the RAF.
The end of World War II found P-51A’s still in service… A testament to their
durability.
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Click on image to
right to see larger image |
This
model of the P-51A represents an aircraft flown in Burma in 1944. It was
flown by one of the CBI’s first aces… Captain J. J. England, of the
311th Fighter Group 530th SQ.
The
kit went together with minimal problems however a bit of
filling had to be done. The overall model is well detailed with a great
cockpit. |
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Since
the P-51A was one of the first Mustangs to enter service, I decided to
weather this model. This is the first time I’ve used this technique of
doing chipped paint as well as that of accenting
panel lines. Thanks to the tips I got of the ARC Tools ‘n’ Tips
section I was able to get the finish I wanted. The paints I used were
Humbrol Enamel’s. The chipped affect was accomplished by spraying the
model with Humbrol Metal Cote number 27001 and then applying a gloss clear
paint also Humbrol, on top of the metal cote. |
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24 hours I applied the colours
olive drab and grey after an hour I thengot some
masking tape and placed it on the model ripping it off to revel the metal
cote underneath. The panel lines
were done using a pastel stick which was mixed with some water and
dishwashing detergent. This helped to brake up the pastel stick and to
help it to stick to the model. I then
painted it on and after an hour or so I then used a damp tissue
rubbing along the fuselage, in the direction of the airflow. However
rather than cleaning the excess pastel off I used this to highlight the
plane for the look of a bit more wear and tear. After applying
the decal’s
I then sprayed a matt clear over the model to seal in the Pastel. |
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Click
on image below to see larger image
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Overall
the kit was a good kit to build and I had fun experimenting on the effects off
wear and tear.
Alan
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