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1/48 Hobby Craft Curtis Mohawk (WiP)

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  • Member since
    January 2015
  • From: Tumwater, WA.
1/48 Hobby Craft Curtis Mohawk (WiP)
Posted by M. Brindos on Monday, January 4, 2021 12:06 AM

I don't know what it is about these kits, but I find them quite entertaining. I'm going with option #2 Chinese Air Force 1942.

I began some time ago with scratching some details into the cockpit, like usual. I didn't get too crazy, just adding a few items such as the charging handles for the .50's and a new throttle quadrant. The molded sidewall details are always too soft for my tastes when it comes to such things. My favorite part is the completely scratch built fuel cell behind the pilot. You only get to see it from one angle, but it's better than a dark hole. I also added a bit of structure behind the pedals in case someone goes looking. 

The basic painting went as expected. Vallejo USAF Dark Green was used as a shadow base with Vallejo Interior Green for the highlights. Simple gloss before a green wash and wipe, then matte to seal it.

The IP dials were filled in with a black wash leaving the outer rims white for contrast. 

The fuel cell is easier to see before the seat is installed.

Left side and throttle quadrant.

I painted the control stick, seat, and hydraulic handle next and installed the control stick before gluing the floor in. I installed the hydraulic handle and then the seat to finish it.

I should've followed my instincts (not the instructions) and installed the IP deeper under the cowling as it leaves no room for anyone with legs to actually sit in the cockpit.

After insuring the other pieces fit I painted the headrest last and called the pit done. I'll be leaving the canopy closed on this one.

For those who are wondering why the seat is aluminum its only because I wanted the visual contrast over having an all green pit.

After that I set about scribing some panel lines so I don't lose them to sanding.

I then spent a bit of time with the engine. This kits weakest link. The knuckles and pushrods are molded on and very soft, and somewhat mishapen. 

So, I'll work with what I've got. Pushrods and knuckles gotta go and I'll build new ones.

That's as far as I've gotten and I'm not quite done yet. There's absolutely nothing behind the engine and I'm not sure if I'll build something or just paint it to make it look like there's nothing to see, hiding everything in the back with black.

We shall see.

Thanks for taking a look.

*****

Quick question; my instructions do not mention the installation of the four .30 caliber wing guns and I have not found a difinitive answer on google if the 75A-5 variant had them or not. If not I'll putty over the ammo access panels.

Wing guns, or no?

- Mike Brindos "Lost Boy"

fox
  • Member since
    January 2007
  • From: Narvon, Pa.
Posted by fox on Monday, January 4, 2021 7:37 PM

Nice work Mike. 

Jim Captain

Stay Safe.

 Main WIP: 

   On the Bench: Artesania Latina  (aka) Artists in the Latrine 1/75 Bluenose II

I keep hitting "escape", but I'm still here.

  • Member since
    January 2015
  • From: Tumwater, WA.
Posted by M. Brindos on Monday, January 4, 2021 7:48 PM

Thanks, Jim. I'm plenty safe. Lol

- Mike Brindos "Lost Boy"

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