1/48th scale Airfix Bolton Paul Defiant Fit Issue

I have not built the 1/48 version, but I have had this problem with other kits in the past.  If you have not joined the fuselage to the wing assembly yet - you may be able to cut a section (or several sections) of sprue so that they span the opening on the bottom of the fuselage and spread it apart a bit to help make the bottom of the fuselage wider where it joins the wing.  

I'm looking at the 1/72 version of the Airfix kit that I was working on last week.  (at the same point of assembly).  If the 1/48 kit is laid out the same as the 1/72, then I think there may be a little room for one of these "spreading beams" at the front of the fuselage hole, just behind the leading edge of the wing, but in front of the recessed gear bay.  It looks like there is alot of room for a beam behind the recessed gear bay.

It doesn't look like there is any room at all for a beam in between the cockpit floor and the recessed gear bay.

Hope that helps.  Before you know it - you'll be Dr. Zar - Styrene Surgeon !

Be sure to post pics !

Chris

Boss, sorry for the delay in responding. Thanks for the detailed reply. I'll give it a go though I have no experience in stretching with a sprue. I'm probably the least talented builder on here and prefer to only buy kits by brands that have excellent reputatiions for good fits. I had heard Airfix had stepped up their game and I have always wanted this plane in 1/48th that wasn't the Classic Airframes release with a vac canopy! No thanks. I'll let you know how it goes.   

The "spreader", as Bossman mentions, is my go-to as well.

If that just won't do the trick, and the gap is too much to be taken care of by some clear glue...I'll glue a piece of sheet plastic to the inside surface of the upper wing (where it "should" meet the fuselage). Trim off the excess and sand it to the shape of the wing. (I hate using putty!)

Zar

I'll give it a go though I have no experience in stretching with a sprue.

That's the spirit - this is the easy kind of trick to learn.  It all happens in a place that won't be seen.   You can cut, test fit, adjust, re-try, and glue when it's all right.

Seize the Styrene my friend - Model Courageously !

Chris