B-17 G turret confusion

That's not a dumb question AT ALL! Probably one of the more common head-scratchers in any kit. Been a while since I built the Fort, but I seem to recall that the ball turret snapped into the Y shaped mounting yoke, much like some wheels do. You can leave the turret off, plug that hole and paint away, then snap the turret in place later. As far as the chin turret, I don't know, but I would bet it could also be placed after the painting was done.

I've working on that same kit on and off for the last year.  I have it painted and am just finishing up a few seams.

I left all three turrets off and plugged the openings with foam and tape.  I have not yet installed the turrets, so take my comments in that light.

The upper turret should just drop in.  The lower ball turret will snap in. For the chin turret, I installed the peg and glued some a thin piece of plastic and a PE part to hold it in place.  It seems like I'll just be able to glue the turret in when the painting is completed.

I last built that kit many years ago. But I followed the directions as to when I added the turrets. I don't recall any problems with paint going inside during airbrushing. I do remember masking and I do believe also painting the ball turret before I added it.