The
new Trumpeter 1/48th scale offerings of the F-100D, while not
perfection, are so far ahead of the old Monogram “Turkey” that
the differences are just short of spectacular.
I can state that there were no fit issues and they were most enjoyable
and quick builds. Aftermarket items used in construction consist of the
following:
Thunderbirds:
Triple
Zilch:
*The
AMS interior enhancement set includes the replacement seat, instrument panel,
coaming and gunsight, section for the aft canopy section.
The intake cover was also added.
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THE
NATURAL METAL FINISH
Both
were finished using Alclad II lacquers and some new products from them that I
found particularly useful. Specifically,
a new waterbased finish called Aqua Gloss Clearcoat, and a series of 4 varying
sheens ranging from clear flat to “light sheen” flat cote. Please refer to
my review of these products on the IPMS/USA website (http://web.ipmsusa3.org/content/6-new-products-alclad-ii)
for a more detailed explanation, but I will say that these new products are easy
to use and the results are gratifying. The
Aqua Gloss clear must be sprayed at 35 to 40 psi and dries crystal clear.
I used this to seal the polished aluminum without changing the
appearance. It can be masked over
without a problem and gives far more permanence for handling and decaling
purposes. Also, this product has
replaced Future floor wax for dipping canopies in my opinion.
The light sheen was used on the afterburner section, allowed to dry
overnight and then buffed with an old t-shirt.
The result is a perfect egg shell finish.
The afterburner section finish was obtained by using a combination of
Alclad II and a very light application of a deep purple pastel chalk.
When completed to my satisfaction, a very fine mist coat of plain
Aluminum was sprayed over the afterburner section to tone down the contrast.
I guess, as a long time modeler, I
have difficulty understanding why so many modelers seem to have trouble with the
application of Alclad II. My best
advice would be read the directions…different Alclad paints require different
techniques. I will also refer you
to another “how to” article I prepared for the IPMS/USA website (http://www.ipmsusa2.org/reviews2/reviews.htm),
although numerous alternative techniques will also work well. There’s no great
mystery to a more than acceptable natural metal finish.
OK…I’ll get off my soap box now and thanks for reading !
Ed Kinney
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