Completed Italeri 1/48 Arado Ar 196A

Lucky man! Surprises from the wife are always enjoyable.

My wife has never taken me to a model shop, but i've certainly dragged her through a few :)

Some of my most treasured models are the ones my wife has gifted to me - even if they aren't necessarily expensive or the latest or greatest, it's the thought that she actually went to a model shop and picked something out.

The Arado is a nice unique looking plane.

I look forward to watching this build.

Regards,

cml

Lucky man! Surprises from the wife are always enjoyable.

My wife has never taken me to a model shop, but i've certainly dragged her through a few :)

Some of my most treasured models are the ones my wife has gifted to me - even if they aren't necessarily expensive or the latest or greatest, it's the thought that she actually went to a model shop and picked something out.

The Arado is a nice unique looking plane.

I look forward to watching this build.

Regards,

 

I have to agree with you sir.  It's the little things that the Mrs. does that makes life so very special.  You see, I have TBI Traumatic Brain Injury and the therapist introduced me to model kits.  After that Mrs. Toshi has supported this endevour 150%, and I haven't looked back as this hobby has helped with my recovery.

I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support and willingness to follow my Arado build.  I am most humbled.

Toshi

Looks like a great model, Toshi!  I'm looking forward to seeing this build. Interesting plane. 

WannabeFarmboy

Looks like a great model, Toshi!  I'm looking forward to seeing this build. Interesting plane. 

 

So far, I am currently working on the seat belts and will have pics up soon for this WIP.  Normally, I've noticed that sea planes are unique looking in nature and the Arado doesn't fail to be unique as well.  

I want to thank you very much for your support and the following of my Arado build.  It's greatly appreciated.

Toshi

Here is the very first step in the Arado build.  I'm going to do a OOB build as I've never built a Italeri kit before.  As you can see below, the seatbelts have been attached or in this case applied.  Yes, it's a decal seatbelt.  I've never seen a decal seatbelt before so this was not only interesting it was fun applying.

Toshi

I use a iPhone 4s to take the photos as that's the easiest format for me.  When I do, I always highlight the HD symbol.  This time it makes my gray RLM 02 look a lot darker than it suppose to.  It's either darker pictures or pixelized photos.  LOL!

I think forum members would agree that a little darker photos in HD is better than a bunch of blurry pics.  LOL!  Anyway, this is what's being done thus far.  I'll continue to give updates on this build as I go along.  So far, this kit is amazing!  It has very nice and beautiful details, it's well engineered, and a forum member noted that this Italeri Kit goes together just like a Tamiya kit.  I must concur, it definately does!  What a great kit so far.

Toshi

Toshi

 As you can see below, the seatbelts have been attached or in this case applied.  Yes, it's a decal seatbelt.  I've never seen a decal seatbelt before so this was not only interesting it was fun applying.

Toshi

 

Funny you mention the decal seatbelts as I have a Revell 1/32 FW190 with decal seatbelts and I thought the same thing.

Enjoy the build as I will enjoy watching!

Kevin

XF-15DCC

 

 

Toshi

 As you can see below, the seatbelts have been attached or in this case applied.  Yes, it's a decal seatbelt.  I've never seen a decal seatbelt before so this was not only interesting it was fun applying.

Toshi

 

 

 

 

Funny you mention the decal seatbelts as I have a Revell 1/32 FW190 with decal seatbelts and I thought the same thing.

Enjoy the build as I will enjoy watching!

 

Kevin

 

This Arado looks like a very good kit.  I am folowing with interest as I love seaplanes, especially in 1/48 scale. I may pick one of these up at the Orlando model show this month.

A little tip from your Uncle Jay;  

I know it's a little late however, but you can put the decaled seatbelts on aluminum foil then install them for a more realistic look.

Happy Modeling.

Jay Jay

This Arado looks like a very good kit.  I am folowing with interest as I love seaplanes, especially in 1/48 scale. I may pick one of these up at the Orlando model show this month.

A little tip from your Uncle Jay;  

I know it's a little late however, but you can put the decaled seatbelts on aluminum foil then install them for a more realistic look.

Happy Modeling.

 

Uncle Jay Jay, I just love your tips!  You've got me doing all kinds of neat new things everytime.  As for the foil, I had no idea in that that could be done.  I'll definately keep that technique in my folder and apply it next time.  Uncle Jay Jay, thank you so much for all you've done for me.  You've watched me grow and helped me along the way.  I so appreciate it.  Please give my love to Aunty Jay Jay and you have a nice day Uncle Jay Jay.  From your nephew, Toshi!

Toshi

Nice choice of subject. I have been trying to get hold of the Revell 32nd kit bit its really hard to find at the moment.

Look forward to seeing you put this together, which marking option are you going for.

Several companies use, or at least used to, decal set belts, but i have not sen them used often. defintaly lok better with some form of backing behind them.

Bish

Nice choice of subject. I have been trying to get hold of the Revell 32nd kit bit its really hard to find at the moment.

Look forward to seeing you put this together, which marking option are you going for.

Several companies use, or at least used to, decal set belts, but i have not sen them used often. defintaly lok better with some form of backing behind them.

 

As for what marking option I'll be choosing is between these two.  Arado Ar 196 A-5, 2/Sagr. 125 Crete 1941 or the Arado Ar 196 A-2, 1/BordfliegerGr. 196, Battleship Bismarck, 1940.  Thank you Bish for visiting my Arado 196 thread!

Toshi

I'll get that Revell kit one day, i am hopeing it will be re-released soon. Theres a rather nice resin launcher for it i would not mnd displaying it on.

A lot of kits tend to have markings for one of the Crete based aircraft. Good choices either way.

Good lookin' build so far Toshi. Never heard of decal seat belts either but it looks like they work out fine.

Nice work so far Toshi. As for Italeria(SP) kits I have only built the M4A1 76mm Sherman, and I was very pleased with the outcome. I found it to be a very simple and straight forward build. It currently is sitting on my shelf waiting for me to fix it after its wreck during my last move.

Bish

I'll get that Revell kit one day, i am hopeing it will be re-released soon. Theres a rather nice resin launcher for it i would not mnd displaying it on.

A lot of kits tend to have markings for one of the Crete based aircraft. Good choices either way.

 

Toshi

feldgrau23

Nice work so far Toshi. As for Italeria(SP) kits I have only built the M4A1 76mm Sherman, and I was very pleased with the outcome. I found it to be a very simple and straight forward build. It currently is sitting on my shelf waiting for me to fix it after its wreck during my last move.

 

Toshi

A very nice Wednesday (Humpday)!  Mrs. Toshi took me to a brand new restaurant that opened here in Streetsboro call "Don Patron", a Mexican grill.  Being in the food industry for thirty plus years as a Executive Chef and a Master Sushi Chef, I know or at the very least I think I know a few things about the food industry.

What I liked was that the hostess opened the door for me and greeted me with great enthusiasm.  we were seated immediately and a server attended to our every need right on the dot.  The server must have touched our table at least six times of which was exceptional.  What about the food?

There is another Mexican restaurant down the road Mrs. Toshi and I frequented Called "El Campensino".  Not anymore!  The food at "Don Patron" was to die for.  That's some of the best food I've had in a long time.  When service meets and exceeds your expectations, with great food, that made "Don Patron" my number one favorite Mexican eatery. 

After that, we took a short trip to Walmart and came home.  I of course immediately went straight into the den and started work on my Italeri Arado.  Here is just a partial build of the Arados cockpit.  Please take a view below.  Thank you forum members!

Toshi

Mrs. Toshi sure looks after you!  Do yourself a favor - take her out somewhere special.  Show her how special she is! 
Trust me.....brownie points!  She sounds like she's worth it.

leemitcheltree

Mrs. Toshi sure looks after you!  Do yourself a favor - take her out somewhere special.  Show her how special she is! 
Trust me.....brownie points!  She sounds like she's worth it.

 

She truly enjoys her sisters company hence, I have invited her sister and her whole family over for the Labor Day week end.  We will do a huge BBQ and enjoy each other's company.  Thank you so much leemitcheltree for your input, it's very heart warming.  Also thank you for the support!

Toshi

This is still a subject I too would love to model. I really love to lines of this aircraft. Not digging the seat belts though. They are lacking dimension.

I didn't know you were professional chef, Toshi. I too have been in the industry for over 20 years myself. I made it as far up the ladder as I could without making it onto my own TV show, and then I burned out. I loved working in a Casino however. The teamwork was top notch! I tip my hat to you, my fellow comrade.  :D

I trust your coat is still pressed and hung with care, as mine has been. lol

I think your choice of Bismark markings would be best. You really don't see them very often and there is more historical value in my opinion. I may not model ships, but the story of the Bismark, is that of legends. Same as the Yamato, and the Arizona.

If I ever model a ship, it would be one of, or all 3 of those.

Treat your missus right. I love mine to the ends of the earth, but she still has not purchased one single model for me lol. At least she supports my hobby. Hers is playing World of Warcraft, I think. She's a photographer, but I don't think that's a hobby for her, as much as its a passion. She has a pure talent for that. Maybe she'll let me share one of her photos some day. ;)

Sorry if I'm meandering in thought here. I, like so many other here on this forum, just like talking with you, my friend. lol

Very nice start Toshi! Love the detail painting...you did a very clean job

M. Brindos

This is still a subject I too would love to model. I really love to lines of this aircraft. Not digging the seat belts though. They are lacking dimension.

I didn't know you were professional chef, Toshi. I too have been in the industry for over 20 years myself. I made it as far up the ladder as I could without making it onto my own TV show, and then I burned out. I loved working in a Casino however. The teamwork was top notch! I tip my hat to you, my fellow comrade.  :D

I trust your coat is still pressed and hung with care, as mine has been. lol

 

I think your choice of Bismark markings would be best. You really don't see them very often and there is more historical value in my opinion. I may not model ships, but the story of the Bismark, is that of legends. Same as the Yamato, and the Arizona.

If I ever model a ship, it would be one of, or all 3 of those.

 

Treat your missus right. I love mine to the ends of the earth, but she still has not purchased one single model for me lol. At least she supports my hobby. Hers is playing World of Warcraft, I think. She's a photographer, but I don't think that's a hobby for her, as much as its a passion. She has a pure talent for that. Maybe she'll let me share one of her photos some day. ;)

 

Sorry if I'm meandering in thought here. I, like so many other here on this forum, just like talking with you, my friend. lol

 

I started cooking proffesionally at fifteen years old back in the day.  I started at the Hyatt Regency Hotel for $3.75 an hour.  LOL!  Since then I've worked for Sheraton, Ala Moana Hotel, and three different Marriott mega resorts.  Boy those were the days.  My most memorable moment in time that I'll never forget was my intense training with the official student sushi chef of the Emperor of Japan.  That was the most fun time I've ever had.

With this knowledge I moved to Ohio and set up Giant Eagle grocery chain with manufacturing sushi.  I then became the personal sushi chef for Bert and Iris Wolfstein for their hotel in Aurora, Ohio called the Bertram Inn and Conference Center.

Once I left the profession, I've never looked back so my Execurive Chefs coats are now buried in some landfill!  LOL!  

Mrs. Toshi is the reigning Queen of the Miura clan.  I treat her as such!  I'm so lucky to have such a beautiful and caring wife.    

Like all the other FSM Forum members here including yourself, I so very much enjoy the conversations.  I'm almost home bound, this forum allows me to travel the world.  I'm forever great full for this wonderful community and am most humbled.

Toshi

P.S. Last night, actually the wee hours of the morning, I dry fitted the fueselage and said what the hay, I might as well glue this thing together so this is where I'm at now.  

rooster513

Very nice start Toshi! Love the detail painting...you did a very clean job

 

Toshi

That's a fair interior for being OOB. Looks good so far Toshi.

I actually bought the MPM 1/48 scale Arado 196 when it came out in the 90's and then I bought the Hi-PM version a few years later (both of which I still have in the stash). Now there's like all these mainstream companies turning these things out.

Hi Toshi,

I will be looking forward to this build. I have wanted an Arado for the stash

I take my wife through a HS on occasion and while she doesn’t buy me anything she may encourage me to get something or even pick something out and show it to me. She knows how picky I can get so she’s afraid of wasting money, although I tell her she wouldn't. To remedy that problem I gave her a copy of my wishlist.

mustang1989

That's a fair interior for being OOB. Looks good so far Toshi.

I actually bought the MPM 1/48 scale Arado 196 when it came out in the 90's and then I bought the Hi-PM version a few years later (both of which I still have in the stash). Now there's like all these mainstream companies turning these things out.

 

Toshi

modelcrazy

Hi Toshi,

I will be looking forward to this build. I have wanted an Arado for the stash

I take my wife through a HS on occasion and while she doesn’t buy me anything she may encourage me to get something or even pick something out and show it to me. She knows how picky I can get so she’s afraid of wasting money, although I tell her she wouldn't. To remedy that problem I gave her a copy of my wishlist.

 

As I mentioned earlier, I've never made a Italeri kit before so this is a new experience for me.  Mrs. ModelCrazy sounds like the best wife a modeler could have.  That's a nice touch to give Mrs. ModelCrazy a wish list.  Thank you so much for everything, you've helped and continuously guided me on FSM Forum!

Toshi

 I've never added rivets before with scribing so this is what I've done for most of the day.  I know I still have to clean it up but I'm so excited that I wanted to show all forum members the progress I'm doing.

Toshi

Toshi

 I've never added rivets before with scribing so this is what I've done for most of the day.  I know I still have to clean it up but I'm so excited that I wanted to show all forum members the progress I'm doing.

Toshi

 

 

 

Well they are both limited run kits by off beat manufacturers but the Hi-PM kit seems to be a little better. Being short run kits they both suffer from excessive flash and fit issues but the Hi-PM offering has better goodies in it despite the presence of resin in the MPM kit.

mustang1989

Well they are both limited run kits by off beat manufacturers but the Hi-PM kit seems to be a little better. Being short run kits they both suffer from excessive flash and fit issues but the Hi-PM offering has better goodies in it despite the presence of resin in the MPM kit.

 

Toshi

Coming along nicely Toshi!!!! Excellent work. 

lawdog114

Cool subject Toshi. I look forward to your progress.

 

Toshi

feldgrau23

Coming along nicely Toshi!!!! Excellent work. 

 

Toshi

So far the cowling has a nice dry fit at this time.  The next step is the wings and the tail.  After that, I'm thinking that attaching and masking the cockpit would be smart.  Then some primer, base coat, and second coat as needed.  While the fueselage cures, I'll then work on the dual pontoons.  

The CAD drawing has some directions in rigging.  I've never done that  !  Uh, oh!  I'll try it and see if I can get the EZ-Line to cooperate.  Or better yet, to get my butter fingers to cooperate!  LOL!  I can only try at this point.  Wish me luck!

Toshi

Nice work so far Toshi.

Bish

Nice work so far Toshi.

 

Toshi

Very cool bird, Toshi. I really like the Arado. I can't believe how fast you are tossing together all these kits. I thought you worked fast before, but now, dang! 

Bk

BrandonK

Very cool bird, Toshi. I really like the Arado. I can't believe how fast you are tossing together all these kits. I thought you worked fast before, but now, dang! 

Bk

 

Toshi

Can't wait to see  the pics with the wings on

crown r n7

Can't wait to see  the pics with the wings on

 

Toshi

Toshi, she is looking great!  Nice job on the engine and cockpit so far, can't wait to see it done.   Might have to add on to my must build list.

John

wolfhammer1

Toshi, she is looking great!  Nice job on the engine and cockpit so far, can't wait to see it done.   Might have to add on to my must build list.

John

 

Toshi

Here is the Arado with it's wings.  Next step will be the tail then primer.  Please view the photos below.

Toshi

There was no putty at all needed!  Wow!  Just the ubiquitous minor sanding of the seams.  Other than that, everything went together very easily.  What a wonderful job Ilateri has done!

You will find below, pics of the tail and flaps.  This kit allows you to position the flaps in any direction you choose to.  This is a great thing for modelers.  

Toshi

Later today Mrs. Toshi's sister and brother in law will be visiting us.  We will be doing simple fare.  Grilling Hamburgers, Teriyaki Hamburgears, and Hot Dogs!  They'll be coming in from some 70 miles away from Ashtabula, Ohio.  The longitude and latitude is the same as Buffulo, New York.  So you can imagine the amount of lake effect snow that falls on Ashtabula each year.  Hence Mrs. Toshi's sister tries her best to visit us effectively during the pleasant spring, summer, and fall months due to the fact that it gets ridiculous during winter with snow accumulation as well as temps!

Maybe with my home care therapist, they can help me with stamina and then I can go down there, and surprise them.  Due to my issues, I feel I can drive but the doctors don't want me to do so.  Oh, well.  

Below, you'll find that I tried to get some bench time in before they arrive at the Home of the Toshi's.  As you can see, not much has been accomplished this morning.  Forum members know of the tedious work needed to take Tamiya tape and that needs to be cut by hand.  One frame at a time.  Slow yet very fulfilling!  

Toshi

That's quite a Tamiya tape inventory you have there, my freind.

Glad you are enjoying your first Italari kit, you have it coming along nicely.

Enjoy your family get-together and cook-out. Sounds good.

Greg

That's quite a Tamiya tape inventory you have there, my freind.

Glad you are enjoying your first Italari kit, you have it coming along nicely.

Enjoy your family get-together and cook-out. Sounds good.

 

Toshi

Toshi this bird is coming along nicely. Watching you build this I really want to go find one of these and build it myself.

feldgrau23

Toshi this bird is coming along nicely. Watching you build this I really want to go find one of these and build it myself.

 

Tosh

tempestjohnny

Very nice. I still say you're a machine. Your building skills are gaining on every one you do. And as fast as you build you'll be doing masterpieces in a week. John

 

I am most pleased that you see improvement in my builds.  This coming from such an esteemed colleague as you is greatly appreciate it.  Now that I have composed this reply, it's back to modeling for me to ever improve my skill only to catch up with you all.  Thank you so very much for your continued support in my builds and pointing out my progress!

Humbly yours,

Toshi

Spendid! Just simply splendid, Toshi. I'm looking forward to seeing the next round of progress.  :)

Coming on nicely there Toshi, looks like you had fun with the masking. Glad your enjoying your first italeri kit. They may not have the detail of some other brands, but they are still nice kits. I still have a few in the stash to do.

If you ever fancy one of their in 72nd and want somthing a bit differant, i'd recomend trying the Do 24. I really enjoyed that and even without the AM its a nice build.

M. Brindos

Spendid! Just simply splendid, Toshi. I'm looking forward to seeing the next round of progress.  :)

 

Toshi

Bish

Coming on nicely there Toshi, looks like you had fun with the masking. Glad your enjoying your first italeri kit. They may not have the detail of some other brands, but they are still nice kits. I still have a few in the stash to do.

If you ever fancy one of their in 72nd and want somthing a bit differant, i'd recomend trying the Do 24. I really enjoyed that and even without the AM its a nice build.

 

Toshi

For open areas, i usually put some tissue paper in tehre to mask it.

As for Italeri kits, i've got a couple of their Ju 88's, a couple of He 111's, an Hs 129, an Me 323 and a mistel.

Bish

For open areas, i usually put some tissue paper in tehre to mask it.

 

Bish

.

As for Italeri kits, i've got a couple of their Ju 88's, a couple of He 111's, an Hs 129, an Me 323 and a mistel.

 

Bish

For open areas, i usually put some tissue paper in tehre to mask it.

As for Italeri kits, i've got a couple of their Ju 88's, a couple of He 111's, an Hs 129, an Me 323 and a mistel.

 

Toshi

Toshi

 

Bish

For open areas, i usually put some tissue paper in tehre to mask it.

As for Italeri kits, i've got a couple of their Ju 88's, a couple of He 111's, an Hs 129, an Me 323 and a mistel.

 

 

 

 

Wow, you've got your own Luftwaffe ready to go.  That sounds like a great stash!  Thank you for the reply!

 

Toshi

 

O, that doesn't even scratch the surface. I keep meaning to do a head count, but i am worried it might not have gone down since the last time. When ever i get a kit the Mrs tells me i already have more than i can build before i pop my clogs. She mght be right, but i will give it a good go

tempestjohnny

 

Bish

For open areas, i usually put some tissue paper in tehre to mask it.

 

 

 

 

Same here

 

 

 

Bish

.

As for Italeri kits, i've got a couple of their Ju 88's, a couple of He 111's, an Hs 129, an Me 323 and a mistel.

 

 

 

 

Bish I've built the 129. Really sweet kit

 

 

Ye, it looks it and the reviews i read before buying it were positive. I just need to come up with an idea for a dio and find the chance to build it. I was going to go with the winter scheme.

I've been away for the whole Labor Day weekend.  Not on a trip, just away from my bench.  I was getting withdrawals!  LOL!  I'm building the Arado from the Bismark.  The paint scheme is splinter.  

Toshi

Good to see some paint going on Toshi. But just be aware that German maritime aircrfat, includeing the 196, were painted in differant shades of green for the splinter than land based aircraft. The RLM 72/73 maritime scheme was darker than the land based 70/71.

Bish

Good to see some paint going on Toshi. But just be aware that German maritime aircrfat, includeing the 196, were painted in differant shades of green for the splinter than land based aircraft. The RLM 72/73 maritime scheme was darker than the land based 70/71.

 

Toshi

Here is what I have so far.  There are quite a few things that need to be cared for.  

Toshi

Next step is weathering and rigging.

Toshi

Hi Toshi,

What are you going to rig it with?

WOW, Toshi, I am truly diggin' this floater. Love the choice of color schemes. I can't wait to see this one done. Very nice.

BK

Floats look swell Toshi as does the paint work.

Excellent paint job Toshi!!! This bird is coming along nicely.

scottrc

Hi Toshi,

What are you going to rig it with?

 

Toshi

BrandonK

WOW, Toshi, I am truly diggin' this floater. Love the choice of color schemes. I can't wait to see this one done. Very nice.

BK

 

I'll be doing this sometime tomorrow.  Thanks BrandonK for your continuous support in my builds!

Toshi

P.S.  I'm looking at a completed model that has had Testors CREATEFX Natural Wash and it looks to me like it does darken and blend the colors in a very subtle way as well as add a weathering effect.  This should work.  I forgot to add that the wash is a enamel based product.  

Toshi

mustang1989

Floats look swell Toshi as does the paint work.

 

Toshi

feldgrau23

Excellent paint job Toshi!!! This bird is coming along nicely.

 

 

For those of you forum members interested in a new Badger AB, if you can catch the Michaels 50% off deal day, you can go online to their site and purchase the Badger AB for 50% off.  For the life of me, I can't remember what type of Badger AB it was but it looked really nice and is something I might consider buying except for the fact that I'm a fan of all things Iwata!  LOL!

Toshi

To my fellow forum members,

I just checked the Micheals web site, the Badger AB of which I mentioned above to feldgrau23 is called the Badger Anthem which is a siphon AB and the Badger Patriot gravity feed AB both being sold at $179.99.  

I now must cease and desist as my all time favorite NFL's first game of the season starts.  Carolina Panthers vs Denver Broncos!  A repeat of the Super Bowl teams.  

Toshi

Toshi,

After rigging ships I prefer stretched sprue.  It's pretty easy to make. EZ like is great but I can work with sprue easier. I can give you tips to make it if you want. 

modelcrazy

Toshi,

After rigging ships I prefer stretched sprue.  It's pretty easy to make. EZ like is great but I can work with sprue easier. I can give you tips to make it if you want. 

 

Toshi 

To my fellow forum members,

In reference to the Badger Anthem and Patriot from Michaels at $179.99, not including the 50% discount, I've found several other online stores selling the Anthem and Patriot from $75.00 and up to $100.00 at Buy It Now prices of which is still less than what Michaels is selling both AB with the discount.  

I'm not trying to sell anything, this is just out of curiosity and interest in the hobby as a whole.  Thank you forum members for your support!

Toshi

By now, forum members know of the balsa plane thread I've done.  I want to thank everyone for their contribution, reads, and those of whom replied.  Instead of resurrecting that thread, I figured to just add these photos with the Italeri 1/48 Arado 196A thread.  Mrs. Toshi purchased this from Michaels.  She also purchased the old school Monogram/Revell 1/48 P-40 Warhawk.  I had made that kit sometime ago and had given the P-40 to a young budding six year old modeler.  So this P-40 will be a second reincarnation for me, unless I give this one away as well!  LOL!

This balsa plane was in the slot car race area.  Remember those wooden hand made cars!  Wow, that was a long time ago and it truly seems like a galaxy far and away!  LOL!  Mrs. Toshi purchased this balsa glider for the purpose to fly it as my rubber powered balsa plane flew once and became regulated to my den workshop ceiling.  I hope this glider brings back nostalgia for us all, a time that was simple and honest.  Enjoy!

Toshi

HA ha ha! I almost bought a few of these the other day, because of your thread!

Love the colors on the Arado, Toshi. I think it will come together after the decals are on and you dull cote this bad boy.  :)

M. Brindos

HA ha ha! I almost bought a few of these the other day, because of your thread!

 

Love the colors on the Arado, Toshi. I think it will come together after the decals are on and you dull cote this bad boy.  :)

 

I am extremely happy now that I have your approval of the color hues I chose to apply on the Arado.  I too now feel like, I understand, and am happy, plus confident enough that once the clear gloss goes on, decals are applied, the wash AB on, and the final dull cote is finalized, everything will pull together.  Thank you so much for your support, tips, read and replies.  I cherish these precious moments in time!

Toshi

This is an absolutely amazing kit of a B-17G Flying Fortress.  Everything is plated and or painted with immaculate DETAILING!  Amazing, and this is the next gift in actuality a birthday gift for a young budding eight year old modeler.  What was a surprise is the fact is that the Flying Fortress Kit is a snap-tite kit.  I wish we had such kits with this kind of technological advances when we were young.  

Toshi

modelcrazy

Hi Toshi,

Stretching sprue is easy, however not all plastic is alike. I prefer Trumpeter sprue because they typically have thick sprue trees and the plastic stretches well. I avoid using plated or softer plastic.

There are 2 methods that work well for me. One does include setting fire to the end of the sprue so if you try that method be sure to wear a mask. Both methods should be done in a well ventilated area, or next to an exhaust fan like your paint booth.

Method 1. Starting a fire
                This is my least favorite but the most effective.

Light the end of a piece of sprue

 

Blow out the fire and immediately squash the melted end onto something stable.

 

Pull the sprue to the dimension desired.

 

Method 2. Heat but no fire.
                I prefer this method because there is no burring plastic involved although it is tougher getting the melting point correct. Sorry no pictures for this method.

Holding one end of a sprue, heat the center of a sprue rotating to get even heating. The sprue will soon begin to weaken and go limp. At this point grab the other end and pull slowly. You should be able to continue pulling until the plastic begins to harden. The thickness will be deponent on how much you heat the sprue and the plastic involved. I have been able to get my Trumpeter sprue to a long even width of a hair.

Now here’s the interesting thing, if you need to tighten the rigging, smoke from an incense stick or punk used for fireworks will shrink the stretched sprue. Just be sure not to get to close or you will be redoing the process.

 

I hope that helps.

 

Toshi

To my fellow forum members,

The tutorial that modelcrazy has shared with us all in regards to stretched sprue is just amazing.  I did try it twice and will continue to practice this technique.  Until then, I have below the Italeri 1/48 Arado 196A pontoons completed with rigging.  The rigging below constitutes EZ-Line charcoal .003.  The pontoons have also been AB with a wash.  I want to thank you all for the read and replies on this thread!

Toshi

Outstanding job on the easy line! You make it look easy.

modelcrazy

Outstanding job on the easy line! You make it look easy.

 

Toshi

Read your letter in this months issue of FSM Tosh and really enjoyed it. You da man brutha! Build on!

Great job on the rigging Toshi, looks really nice. And great letter as well.

Great job with the paint and rigging on those pontoons! I really like it!

mustang1989

Read your letter in this months issue of FSM Tosh and really enjoyed it. You da man brutha! Build on!

 

I have not even opened the magazine yet as I was so engrossed with this build.  Shame on me!  LOL!  You mustang1989 is the MAN!

Toshi

Bish

Great job on the rigging Toshi, looks really nice. And great letter as well.

 

I had no idea about the letter, it came out as a total surprise to me.  I was so caught up with the Arado build I didn't even open the FSM Magazine up.  Shame on me!  LOL!  If it wasn't for members like yourself, I would never have gotten this far.  Thank you Bish!

Toshi

rooster513

Great job with the paint and rigging on those pontoons! I really like it!

 

Toshi

Looks like you will get the hang of stretching sprue Toshi.  It looks just about right.  And one great thing with starting with an aircraft is that the wires are generally all one diameter.  It gets tricky on ships where you need several different sizes.  Its all in learning how hot to get the sprue and how far and hard to pull and when to twist.  Hmm, like playing an instrument, its all in the feel and timing.  With your determination, you will soon be detailing cockpits with control wires and the inside of wheel wells with your own hydraulic cables.  Ah, what fun!

I know the feeling Toshi. A few years back my Mrs decided to start buying me models for birthday presents. Now she likes to buy me somthing that i probably won't, i.e. not German. And for the first one, she got this little gem, she thought it would look nice with the wires.

And i had never done a bi-plane before. I didn't kow whetehr to laug or cry when i saw it and realised what it entailed.

Toshi the rigging looks fantastic!! Well done my friend.

scottrc

Looks like you will get the hang of stretching sprue Toshi.  It looks just about right.  And one great thing with starting with an aircraft is that the wires are generally all one diameter.  It gets tricky on ships where you need several different sizes.  Its all in learning how hot to get the sprue and how far and hard to pull and when to twist.  Hmm, like playing an instrument, its all in the feel and timing.  With your determination, you will soon be detailing cockpits with control wires and the inside of wheel wells with your own hydraulic cables.  Ah, what fun!

 

Toshi

Bish

I know the feeling Toshi. A few years back my Mrs decided to start buying me models for birthday presents. Now she likes to buy me somthing that i probably won't, i.e. not German. And for the first one, she got this little gem, she thought it would look nice with the wires.

And i had never done a bi-plane before. I didn't kow whetehr to laug or cry when i saw it and realised what it entailed.

 

Toshi

I just couldn't wait to glue on the pontoons/floats, I was too excited to see what it was going to look like!  So here are some photos of where I'm at.

Toshi

feldgrau23

Toshi the rigging looks fantastic!! Well done my friend.

 

 

Toshi

Great job on the rigging Toshi.

I shelved more than one model because of the poor rigging job I did, but I used music wire and it didn't turn out so good. I'm gonna re-rig those due to your inspiration. TY for posting Bro.

Jay Jay

Great job on the rigging Toshi.

I shelved more than one model because of the poor rigging job I did, but I used music wire and it didn't turn out so good. I'm gonna re-rig those due to your inspiration. TY for posting Bro.

 

Toshi

I still have to add a few more things and build the rack/trailer for the 196.  Here is what I have so far.

Toshi

Thanks to modelcrazy, I learned how to melt sprue in a efficient matter.  I normally end up trying the melting process five to six times.  Too many tries if you ask me!  LOL!  

The photo below shows how I did.  I'm going to use this piece depicted in the pic at the bottom!

Toshi

There you go. Now depending on how much you heat the plastic, the speed you pull it apart and the quality of the plastic, you can get one down the to the width of a hair. 

I was going to do a outdoor photo shoot at a place called Tinkers Creek.  Now, I thought about it hard and long and realized I was asking for trouble!

What do I mean by trouble?  Just the thought of carrying this build to the car seems like an accident waiting to happen!  LOL!  Then the process of transport, photo shoot, and the transport back home is or could be a day of disaster at least for me.

So here at home does the Arado resides.  It's displayed on a stand with no issues nor concerns.  Only an earthquake or tornado can damage the 196A now.  I just pray that neither does not arrive!  Knowing this is North East Ohio, Mother Nature can turn on a dime!  LOL!

Overall, I really liked the way Italeri presented this kit.  It was very refreshing to build, the only issue I had was that this kit required some rigging.  I've never done any type of rigging in my life.  

Another outstanding job Toshi, it just looks great . The rigging looks perfect. 

modelcrazy

Another outstanding job Toshi, it just looks great . The rigging looks perfect. 

 

Toshi

modelcrazy

There you go. Now depending on how much you heat the plastic, the speed you pull it apart and the quality of the plastic, you can get one down the to the width of a hair. 

 

Toshi

Very nicely done Toshi, You can also try e-z line for aerials and rigging 

TREYZX10R

Very nicely done Toshi, You can also try e-z line for aerials and rigging 

 

Toshi

stunning as usual, i like the weathering.

Theuns

Theuns

stunning as usual, i like the weathering.

 

Theuns

 

I figured if I messed up or did not like it, I can always repaint the 196A and use the other type of decal markings.  I'm just very happy that it turned out like this as I wanted to really do the Arado from the Battleship Bismark!  Thanks Thuens for your support and interest in my many builds.  I greatly appreciated!

Toshi

Love it!

Your willingness to try various techniques and methods in this craft is very commendable. 

Makes me want to dig out my Tamiya 1/48 Ar 196A but I have sooo many other kits I've promised myself to do first.

I must say though that stretched sprue is one technique I'll always avoid since I recall that toxic burned plastic smell from when I was a kid "slapping" some plastic models together. I didn't think it was a good idea back when I was 13 or 14 (no ventilation in the apartment in New York) and I just don't want to wear my respirator/mask with my glasses while I'm working on a model. I do think my paint booth would probably suck out most of the fumes but I'll stick to EZ Line. 

1943Mike

Love it!

Your willingness to try various techniques and methods in this craft is very commendable. 

Makes me want to dig out my Tamiya 1/48 Ar 196A but I have sooo many other kits I've promised myself to do first.

I must say though that stretched sprue is one technique I'll always avoid since I recall that toxic burned plastic smell from when I was a kid "slapping" some plastic models together. I didn't think it was a good idea back when I was 13 or 14 (no ventilation in the apartment in New York) and I just don't want to wear my respirator/mask with my glasses while I'm working on a model. I do think my paint booth would probably suck out most of the fumes but I'll stick to EZ Line. 

 

 

I have to agree with the chemical stench that melted styrene produces.  It's just bad.  What I did was to use the gas stove as my base.  The fumes were sucked up into the gas stove ventilation system hence, no carcinogenic smell.  1943Mike, thank you so much for all your wisdom!  I have learned so much!

Toshi

I told you it would turn out after you got the decals on.  :)

Well done,  my friend!!  :):):)

M. Brindos

I told you it would turn out after you got the decals on.  :)

Well done,  my friend!!  :):):)

 

Toshi

Great looking build, Toshi!

Lookin' good there Toshi. The rigging really helps out in making these aircraft look the part and looks like you did a swell job.

WannabeFarmboy

Great looking build, Toshi!

 

Toshi

mustang1989

Lookin' good there Toshi. The rigging really helps out in making these aircraft look the part and looks like you did a swell job.

 

Toshi

No problem at all Tosh. I'm wrapping up my '54 Chevy Panel Wagon build and will be joining the ranks of aircraft builders once again after a two year break from them. The automotive building world really got its hooks into me for a couple of years and Im planning on a return back to the automotive after my Arado 234 Blitz build. Till then, we'll see how it all pans out.

I have been away . Just saw the great job you did on this build way to go !

mustang1989

No problem at all Tosh. I'm wrapping up my '54 Chevy Panel Wagon build and will be joining the ranks of aircraft builders once again after a two year break from them. The automotive building world really got its hooks into me for a couple of years and Im planning on a return back to the automotive after my Arado 234 Blitz build. Till then, we'll see how it all pans out.

 

Toshi

crown r n7

I have been away . Just saw the great job you did on this build way to go !

 

 Looks good Toshi, now all it needs is a 1/350 Bismark to go next to it

scottrc

 Looks good Toshi, now all it needs is a 1/350 Bismark to go next to it

 

Toshi

Great work as always, Toshi!.  Thanks for sharing this one with us.  Now I know I will have to find one of these to add to my collection.

John

wolfhammer1

Great work as always, Toshi!.  Thanks for sharing this one with us.  Now I know I will have to find one of these to add to my collection.

John

 

Toshi

Another fantastic looking build to add to your shelf Toshi. It looks great Excellent work my friend.

feldgrau23

Another fantastic looking build to add to your shelf Toshi. It looks great Excellent work my friend.

 

Toshi