How about an "open call" B-36 Group Build and get those dusty kits off the shelf?

My name is Richard and you will know it's me by my ID name of RICMAC. I built one of these monsters back in 1982 and I had alot of fun building and at the present time, I am building another RB-36H PEACEMAKER. I found this model about two months ago and finally bought it.    At the present time I am at about 50% complete and would like to continue communicating with this blog about on going build. Any one needing help, even with any of a type of model just ask, will provide answer, if able too but I'm sure that If I ca't, there is always someone who can. Talk to you soon....

RICMAC again, I built this model in 1981 and it was an adventure to say the least. I did OK then and today, I am about half way completed with my B-36 RB build for the model I bought about three weeks ago. You should do just fine with your build and I'll tell you why.... This model, yes, it's a 1/72 but it is probably 5 times bigger then your average fighter or prop job. You will be able to handle the parts easier and painting will be a breeze. Just remember one thing, PATIENCE, is something you will need to practice on this build. If you take your time and follow the building plans, you'll be surprised with the outcome. Just don't forget the front weights, so you won't have a tail dragger. Just ask for help, if you need it there are plenty of builders in this field.

RICMAC here, I could not help myself from not replying to this post.To look for this model and in this scale would be next to impossible. I had been looking for a model like this for approximately three years and no luck. Then out of the clear blue sky, I mentioned this to one of the hobby shops that I buy models from ONLINE. Would it be my luck? I asked the person at this hobby shop and to my disbelief, they had a brand spanking new model with its original cellophane and box in perfect condition. Ya, there are probably a few models out there like this 1/72 B-36, just got to look for them. GOOD HUNTING.....

ST SkyFalcon

this is my first post on here but I have the Monogram monster B-36 in 1/72 scale and I would like to try it out I am not very good but would like to try it.

Hi ST SkyFalcon,

You are more than welcome to join. Just join us over at the official Group Build Thread at:

/forums/t/142716.aspx?PageIndex=1

Dont worry about your skill level, we all started somewhere. Be sure to read the info and watch the videos at the GB thread to learn about the B-36.

Post questions on there as you have them, and we`ll help you out.

John

this is my first post on here but I have the Monogram monster B-36 in 1/72 scale and I would like to try it out I am not very good but would like to try it.

sounds like a good reason to start one

I`ve got 3 Monogram B29s waiting for their own group build

The GB is now officially open and over in GB forum. See you all there!

/forums/t/142716.aspx

Kugai

Thanks for the pics, lajntx.  I'll take a look at the kit and the pics and figure out what I'll need to do.  The rails around the plane weren't there last time I visited the museum.  If there's anything I need that's missing from those pics, I guess I can contact the museum and ask about permission.

One big thing, though: maybe I shoulda looked first before mentioning the bright idea.  From a quick look at the pics alone I'm thinking one modified bay on a SF kit may not be enough before trying something like modifying this kit.  Of course, one doesn't get experience from not trying and this thing has been waiting for something to be done for 30 years or so...

I guess since this is just for fun I should go for it and balance doing what I can to make this a decent display for the LHS with accepting that it's not likely to end up with competition-level accuracy and detail.

We`re both in the same ship -- sort of.

I have two builds that will require the detailing of the full length B-36 Bomber version bomb bay. With some suggestions from Chris at C2D here is the plan:

1. Using K-truses from builds that will be built with the bomb bay closed fabricate the remaining lengths of K-Truses to make a mold to self build that part.

2. Use Plastruct or Evergreen styrene strips tofabricate the full length commuications tunnel, bomb racks, and other details

3. Using the materials cut away from the lower fusealge to convert the model from an RB-36 to a B-36 construct the bomb bay divider

4. Use the left over doors from another build to use as the second set of bomb bay doors

5. Self build or purchase the bombs from an aftermarket supplier

Here is something I wanted to share with everyone. One of my suppliers for aftermarket parts is

Click2detail.com

They sale many different aftermarket parts/kits for both 1/144 & 1/72 scale B-36 builds. You can get parts for many other non B-36 builds as well

http://click2detail.com/search_products.php?s=3&bk=3

I have communicated with the owner Chris, and hopefully as he has time, he will join us in our builds and share some of the B-36`s he has created for his own collection. 

FYI:

This Book, suggeseted by Bondoman : Magnesium Overcast

Is being listed by this seller at a BUY IT NOW price w/ Free shipping. 3 used books, check listing for pricing

http://www.ebay.com/itm/280774318326?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

There is also a supplemental book released to go with this book. Check your local bookstore or Amazon for availablity & pricing.

Kugai

By the way, you might want to change the start date on the GB thread unless you intended to start things over a year from now.

fixed!

By the way, you might want to change the start date on the GB thread unless you intended to start things over a year from now.

Thanks for the pics, lajntx.  I'll take a look at the kit and the pics and figure out what I'll need to do.  The rails around the plane weren't there last time I visited the museum.  If there's anything I need that's missing from those pics, I guess I can contact the museum and ask about permission.

One big thing, though: maybe I shoulda looked first before mentioning the bright idea.  From a quick look at the pics alone I'm thinking one modified bay on a SF kit may not be enough before trying something like modifying this kit.  Of course, one doesn't get experience from not trying and this thing has been waiting for something to be done for 30 years or so...

I guess since this is just for fun I should go for it and balance doing what I can to make this a decent display for the LHS with accepting that it's not likely to end up with competition-level accuracy and detail.

Na, I'm good with 1/144, only scale I build any more.  The Ficon is my favorite version.  I've seen the HC kits around, just haven't grabbed one yet.  That 1/72 conversion looks sharp. 

kg4kpg

If I can get a hold of a Hobbycraft 1/144 GRB-36 "Ficon" I'll join up. 

Someone speaking of the B-52/X-15 kit, my LHS had one of those last time I was in there.  Don't remember the price though.

Hi kg4kpg,

You are most certainly welcome to join whether you build or not. However, why settle for a smaller scale stock kit?

These links will show you how to custome build in 1/72

http://www.flankers-site.co.uk/modl_ficon.htm

http://www.aircraftresourcecenter.com/Fea1/701-800/Fea771_B-36_Whitehouse/00.shtm

For those unfamiliar with the stock kit mentioned, here  it is:

http://modelingmadness.com/scotts/korean/b36preview.htm

http://www.megahobby.com/grb-36ficonusafbomber1-144hobbycraft.aspx

If I can get a hold of a Hobbycraft 1/144 GRB-36 "Ficon" I'll join up. 

Someone speaking of the B-52/X-15 kit, my LHS had one of those last time I was in there.  Don't remember the price though.

Kugai

Oops!  I don't cross into areas like that if they have the fence or rails, so I figured there was no problem walking up there or taking pictures as long as I didn't touch anything or try climbing around.  If you're right, I guess the folks who work at the museum weren't paying attention, since no one said anything about my looking around and I wasn't trying to be sneaky in any way.

In case you get there and meet these guys and are unable to take a some quick action paparazzi shots.....

This website has some of the photos you want:

http://www.angelfire.com/dc/jinxx1/B36/B-36.html

troublemaker66

The B-52 kit is 85-5716 and I think they want $59.99 for it. I bought most of my stash from Ebay and you never REALLY know what you`re getting until it arrives..lol. It`ll be brand new, factory sealed and 30 bucks with a half off coupon at ACMoore`s...and no worries.... Either way, good luck and post pics!

Len

So far I havent had any bad luck with ebay. I follow the simple rules:

1. Always read the item description in its entirity

2. No pics = No Bid

3. If it`s a stock pic, it better be listed as new, unopened, or "all contents are inventoried and present".

Ive found most listings ( at least for B-36`s ) on there have been rather forward and truthful. What I have also found is there are many buyers on  there whom cant be bothered to actually read.

Case in point:

There was a listing once for 1/72, 1980 kit. that was: Missing ALL of the clear pieces, and one of the fuselages had a crack in it. I bid the $15 asking price because to me the extra pieces would be worth it as I plan to build multiple of these things. About an hour left in the auction 2 bidders went into a bidding war and drove the price up to around $30 ---- $30! -- You can get a complete set on there for around that.  WHAT IDIOTS!

lajntx

 

The Bays are open, but I think it still takes special permission to walk up underneath them and poke you head into the bomb bays and start taking pics.

Oops!  I don't cross into areas like that if they have the fence or rails, so I figured there was no problem walking up there or taking pictures as long as I didn't touch anything or try climbing around.  If you're right, I guess the folks who work at the museum weren't paying attention, since no one said anything about my looking around and I wasn't trying to be sneaky in any way.

troublemaker66

lajntx:

 

Hi troublemaker,

Which kit(s) of the B-36 do they have in stock and what are the asking prices? Also, whats the price of the B-52/X-15 combo?

 

Len

Kugai

I've been to the museum about 6 times or so over the years, and they always had the bays open on the B-36 and the B-52.  They may have changed that since the last time, but I figure that even if the bay is closed and I get the book ( thanks for the tip on that, I just figure that the in-person research would be a reasonable option since it's not cross-country or anything ), I would still have a chance to get some good pics of some other planes.  The other biggies I really want to get details of are the XB-70 and the B-58 ( both in 1:72 ) whose kits have also been collecting dust for about 10 years.

The Bays are open, but I think it still takes special permission to walk up underneath them and poke you head into the bomb bays and start taking pics. There are several websites out there with those exact pictures from the 4 B-36`s on display as well as many period photographs from the 1950`s.

PS.. On your way to Dayton, stop off in my old hometown of Jackson, OH, and pick me up a veal and some ski pop. The stuff they serve here in Texas is wretched!

lajntx

 

 

That book shows you how to do the bomb bay, and the AF museum will allow you to get under their B-36 and take internal photos of the Bomb bay?

I've been to the museum about 6 times or so over the years, and they always had the bays open on the B-36 and the B-52.  They may have changed that since the last time, but I figure that even if the bay is closed and I get the book ( thanks for the tip on that, I just figure that the in-person research would be a reasonable option since it's not cross-country or anything ), I would still have a chance to get some good pics of some other planes.  The other biggies I really want to get details of are the XB-70 and the B-58 ( both in 1:72 ) whose kits have also been collecting dust for about 10 years.

FYI for those wanting to purchase a kit.......

As of RIGHT NOW, there are 7 listings for 1/72 kits on ebay...

Here is something to remember as we build and have fun with our builds. Let`s not forget the sacrafice the men ( and women) who served in the Air Force in the B-36 Wings during the service life of this craft.  

I read this on the B-36.net forums.....

http://forums.delphiforums.com/n/main.asp?webtag=B36forum&nav=messages&msg=1283&prettyurl=%2FB36forum%2Fmessages%2F%3Fmsg%3D1283

"All the guys that flew and/or worked on the 36 should be on at least 10% disbility according to our VSO. Being around , working on or flying the plane exposed you to extreme noise without any ear protection, tis probably resulted in tinnitus (ringing in the ears) plus posibbly hearing loss. Getting the disability for tinitus gets you in the system and has many posibbilities for you future medical needs. Get in contact with your Veterans Service Officer land get the ball rolling for your benefit. I'm on my third set of hearing aids courtesy of VA at no cost to me. They make my life more enjoyable."

Let`s all honor them in our builds for all the sacrafices they made.

troublemaker66

It`s the same one Reasoned posted a picture of...Kit 85-5712...the most recent re-issue..B-36H. They want $59.99 but with a 50% off coupon 30 bucks.I think the 52 was slightly higher, $62 maybe? I`m going there tomorrow so I`ll let ya know.

Len

I`m wanting to get that kit eventually because it is a B-52B and am wanting to build " The Cuidad Juarez" of the 95th BW stationed in Biggs AFB which was shot down by accident in 1961 during a training exercise. Ebay prices on that kit range from upper 30`s to low 60`s. Will probably go that route

How`s this for B-36 goup build:

http://www.network54.com/Forum/149674/thread/1251492798/1251744934/Revell-Monogram+RB-36+-+Who%27s+built+it--

lajntx

troublemaker66:

 

Hi troublemaker,

Which kit(s) of the B-36 do they have in stock and what are the asking prices? Also, whats the price of the B-52/X-15 combo?

Len

Set your calendar. The Official start date is Dec.1!. The GB will take place in the GB Forum.

Reasoned

 

 

That's the bad boy I bought from the GOB LHS, found it for $25 (figured there was that much in plastic in it )

You can sometimes get them at a steal when a business wants them "gone". I got this on on ebay for $20 + $14.99 shipping

http://www.ebay.com/itm/120810710540?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649