1/72 AMT/ERTL YB-49  

by Scott Vomacka

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Here is my 1/72 YB-49 model finished in Bare Metal Foil. This model has a few issues when assembling: 

1. When the leading edge piece is attached, it leaves a large step to the rest of the wing that needs allot of sanding and shimming. The fit of this long piece is not great. Be ready for LOTS of sanding in this area.
 
2. The retraction strut does not have a positive location on the main gear to attach to. You have to figure out where it goes. The directions are not too clear about the placement of this part.

3. When assembling the outer wing panels to the middle wing section, once again, you get a large step. It is best to add tabs and shims to the inner wing attachment area to assure proper alignment.

 4. DON'T use the decals. They fog and silver BADLY.

Click on images below to see larger images

  

  

The model is finished in Bare Metal Foil. It was rather ungainly foiling such a large model. My workbench was not large enough for it. Probable the hardest part of the foiling process was doing the front leading edge canopy. Cutting out the individual frames was nerve racking.

After the model was foiled and decaled, I brushed on a coat of future to seal everything so that the foil would not "peel up" or oxidize. The tail cone was painted with Testors Metalizer paint. 

This model is a BIG one and is VERY labor intensive. Allot of seam work is required. Not to mention the fact that I have to find a place to display it. Maybe it is a alittle TOO big..
Scott

Photos and text © by Scott Vomacka