1':12"
Scale Scratchbuilt Volmer
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by Dave
Fletcher, IPMS/Canada #390 |
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I took a break from
building 1:48th scale models and rebuilt a 1976-vintage Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman
in 1':12" scale (ie., 100cm = 1m). The aircraft was tired and I
wasn't happy with the original wiring or the fuel system plumbing. I also
wanted a good look inside, so I stripped of the fabric and some of the plywood
skin before recovering it. A number of improvements were incorporated and
substantial lightening took place; new Lexan was used for the windshield (see -
plastic!). The aircraft was painted with Porch & Floor Urethane and
the decals were cut from blank stock (black for the letters and red for the
flag). A Canadian Forces command pennant was cut from stock and added to
the right side of the cockpit (I used to command CFS Holberg) and a wing
commander's pennant was similarly 'scratch-built' and added to the left.
Reflown with the original Lycoming O-235, the aircraft has now been re-engined
with a Lycoming O-290. Weathering is being applied by Mother Nature.
The second shot shows the aircraft before the installation of the tip floats.
Now, can I get back to my unbuilt stash of plastic kits?
Dave
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Photos and text © by Dave Fletcher
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