1/72 Academy P-47B Thunderbolt

Gallery Article by Richard Kern

 

These are pictures of a P-47B Thunderbolt built from the P-47D Thunderbolt kit from Academy. The first step was to cut the 8 inch plug from the fuselage and reattach the forward section. This was relatively easy, but the wing root caused some fit problems. I dryfitted until I was satisfied with the fit  then filled in some gaps with superglue, sanded and the results can be seen.

 

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Further modifications were done on the "wet" belly of the kit. It was sanded down and rescribed as to befit the B model which did not have the ability to carry the centerline fuel tank of later models.  

The engine cowl flaps were reduced by one on each side by sanding it clear and the radio mast was positioned to lean forward as on a B model.  I received inspiration for this build when I saw my friend, Scott Brown, working on his modification of the Tamiya P-47D Thunderbolt kit to a C model. Wow Scott did a fantastic job you should see that one!!!!

Recently it won third place in our local IPMS contest in my category and I received many compliments on the uniqueness of the subject. I wish to thank everyone who took and interest in the finished product.

Richard Kern

      

Photos and text © by Richard Kern