Today so far has been one of those days when you're not sure if what you intended to do has been successful!

The engine block, supercharger and all the pipeworks and bit for the engine have been sprayed, re-sprayed and in some cases sworn at.

Needless to say, I am happy with the pipework that I have sprayed Aluminium, although after fitting there may be a case of some brushwork to patch up.

The engine block came out nicely to my eyes, but under the macro lens and flash of my D700 I am now not too sure!

I will probably feel much better after getting this on to the front of the cockpit frame and then all piped up. Some piping will be undergoing extra brush painting as well.

Comments and Questions welcome.

James

" but under the macro lens and flash"   Well -- luckily that's not how we, as humans, view things through our eyes.  So i'm sure its fine!  When my eyes start to function as a macro lenses and have flash built it, I may say you should think about a re-spray.  But until then, I think it looks fantastic.

Loving this Snaps.  What a monster.  I look forward to your progress..

Joe

So the third canopy arrived today and yes you guessed it it still has a lens in it, sent another email to Airfix which is below

Dear Hornby

I've received my third canopy today and again it has a "lens". This one was in an opened bag so it has been looked at by someone from Honby/Airfix.

I've looked a a book showing the build of the kit and the sprue is different and doesnt have this issue. I'd like to hear back from a person rather then the copy and paste reply I've had so far as it looks like an issue with all the canopies and it looks like I will need to wait for a vacuform to build a kit which retails at £100 which I don't believe is satisfactory.

I will be posting this to the Fine Scale Modeler forum as well as the Facebook page for Airfix

Apology to James as I feel like I'm almost hijacking your build with this but for the price it should be right

Phil

It's Ok, you're not hijacking.

I too have received my "New replacement" and it is just like the others with the lens in both the canopy and windscreen.

I did, this afternoon speak with a guy at Airfix and both the manufacturer and Airfix are scratching their heads over how this has happened. Now I am told that they are working to try and find out how it has happened and correct it. They are not sure if it is a mould or casting issue.

Looking at this objectively, it is an issue with the kit, but overall quite a minor one. You can only see it really if you are purposely looking for it. When I went over the kit for the first time when I got it home, and I do go over it very carefully, I missed it and only went back after it was noted on a different forum.

It's an issue on both the canopy and windscreen parts, but when the model is built it becomes invisible as it doesn't detract from the overall result.

I know Airfix and their producer are looking into how this has happened and hopefully will fix this, but I think that it would be an idea to use it as a "Wartime supply" issue!

Engine update a little later!

James

I do agree its not a huge issue but now everyone knows its there people will go looking for it on any build, good luck anyone who builds it for a competition.

It just annoys me, looking at the kit its a high end price one and why did they not check when they changed the mould, I still don't buy the issue with it setting.

I have more than a few kits with canopy's that size and they would have done better to have a seem to be smoothed out rather than this issue

Phil

The problem is on the inside of the canopy

If you rub your finger very lightly on the inside of the canopy in the area you can feel a bulge, not a dent. This to me makes it a mould problem.

Any decent judge in a competition looks at the work the modeller has put in and produced. A slight flaw in the production, wether fixable or not should not be penalised if the modeller hasn't dealt with it.

In this case, I think that this flaw, if not fixable by Airfix should be left alone. Trying to deal with it could either make it worse, or probably make the canopy unusable. At least Airfix has fixes the stress crack issues and there is no seam mark down the middle of the canopy to deal with!

It's a small thing overall. and there are more expensive kits out there to build, and we are getting something which modellers have been wanting for ages - a 1/24 kit with 1/32 detailing!

Moving on with the build.

Since my last update I have been fixing in the engine and the piping included in the kit. It is pretty comprehensive set of piping using information and diagrams available and looks good when built up.

The photos take you through stages 49-67 of the build. Some parts fit easily, some you have to wiggle, some really need to go on earlier that the instructions say and some make me look twice at the instructions, stare at the kit and say "Now I have to get that in there...... somehow!"

Most of this is a tight fit and cosmetic benefit will be gained by spending time getting rid of seams and using different shades of metal paint.

I would have used some copper on a couple of parts but for some reason the paint isn't playing and seems to have congealed into a lump.

I will be writing a note and sending it back to Vallejo in Spain with a "What the hell has happened? It's brand new never opened!" and see what happens!

Never mind! Mostly this section builds up in a logical sense and there are some very tight fits.

Now I have to flip this over and continue with some more, but first, the paint shop beckons!

Comments and questions welcome

James

Lookin' good, Snap!

I got this beast in the mail yesterday. It's really well done and will be nice to build.

Mine has the same issue with the canopy. I suppose I'll try to get an AM canopy . None found so far.

I wouldn't worry about the canopy. You can only see the flaw if you are really looking for it and I know that Airfix are working on fixing it.

The only other flaws I have come across are the undercart wheel mounts (see earlier post - easily fixable and the 20mm cannon barrels which are replaceable with masters 20mm cannon barrels they did for the Mossie.

I would also take a look at a Sutton fabric harness rather than the kit ones. more detail in those. Build update coming soon

James

Here we go with another update.

In this update we finish the engine and install the radiator/cooling. Some parts are not easy to fix into place and at times I felt that parts should have gone in earlier as frustration levels rose. I will have to repaint some parts and touch up others with a brush.

Only one more part to add which can be done later.

Time to move on to the wings!

James

James

I did wonder about some of the pipework. I was thinking when I get round to mine build the full engine, or as much as makes sense then build round it. Looking at the frames they look like they will have more give that way to fit the panels and line up than having to use gentle persuasion to get the engine in after they have set.

I had a call from Airfix today, probably the same guy you talked to and he honestly said they couldn't find one without the issue with the canopy. I said I was happy to wait till they get it sorted and to send me a new one out then so I've joined a list which I think may have a few people on it.

Phil

As I build this I am making build notes in MS Word as to what would be easier to fit and when as well as painting. I am a bit concerned as to the colours the gunbay is to be painted (leather and yellow) but the ground crews of at least 1 Tiffy did line the bays with leather to try and help keep the cannon's from freezing up.

I think that I will go my own way with the gun bays with Interior green etc

I will be getting another Tiffy and trying my honest best to get as much on display as I can by taking a knife to the upper wing etc.

This Tiffy is a learning experience... mind you, all kits are! It's a good kit for the money and I am really enjoying this. It's a very long time I did an Airfix kit and considering what you actually get in the majority of 1/24 kits then this is very much a huge leap for 1/24 kits. I would love Airfix to go back and redo ALL their 1/24 kits to this standard, then we can have lots of fun!

.

At this moment I am just prepping for a spraying session.

James: Wow, that's pretty darn awesome!!! I'm going to have to get one though I think I'll wait to see what aftermarket stuff comes out. Plus I hope they do a Tempest, I just like the lines of it a little better than the Typhoon.

BTW: Did you finish your set of samurai armour?  

The Samurai Armour is all in a box waiting for me to re-start it. At the moment I am at a stage where I need the storage box which is the only thing I am waiting for. I have all the bits etc, just need the storage box!

So just had another reply from Airfix which I'd say will be the last for a while, but it does say a lot

Dear Sir

Sorry for the inconvenienced cause with the clear canopy Q1 from the product A19002.

We regret that we unable to supply the canopy without the slight dimple.

Attempts are being made to correct, but this has not been achieved to date.

We have your HC number and if we can improve the canopy in any way will send one of these.

Best regards

The Airfix spares team

Sure James will get the same sometime

Phil

Another update hits the build!

This update we fit the wheel well and spars as well as start fitting out the cannon bay. Each part was painted and decaled first before fitting. Clamps were used to make sure everything went where it should do until the glue grabbed and cured. There were no real difficulties apart from a couple of parts were very tight fits, but that's OK as they went into their position and no problem was encountered.

Dry fit of the wheel well top.

I had no difficulties apart from the size of the parts and the fact that each one needs clamping into place until the glue cures.

Now we start putting detail in including wing and leading edge fuel tanks, cannon bay detail and also wheel well detail.

I have had a dry fit session with the cannon I built up and found that getting it into place is going to be a problem. I stripped down the cannon and found that fitting it in pieces is the best way.

Look out for this in my next update.

Comments and questions welcome

James

Continuing on with the wing The fuel tanks are now installed as well as the wheel well tops. Now I deal with the cannon bays.

The problem I found was that I couldn't get the built up cannon in with the replacement Master Hispano MkII barrels. This I solved with a 2 part fix.

First of all I put in the breech and feed assembly.

Then from the front of the wing I slid the barrel with a drop or two of cyanowhatsit on carefully through the holes and into the breech. Of course during the wing build I had tested the barrels first and widened any holes that needed widening to take the replacement barrels.

In the picture below you can see one cannon and barrel complete and the second outboard cannon just waiting for the barrel. You can also see the fuel tanks and wheel well cover in place.

A couple of more parts and the cannon bay(s) are done and the wing top skin is ready to go on.

The ammo storage boxes are a very tight fit to the base and I would look carefully at this section with the parts outside the wing first next time and make sure that everything drops into place and there's no struggle to get everything to fit. It's all a tight fitting squeeze.

At this point I have decided to do the wing painting now with the camo, AEF ID stripes etc. My next post should be a very entertaining one and leave me covered in Yellow, Ocean Grey, Medium Ocean Grey, Black and white paint. I'll probably fight with the fuselage sections too! depending on the instructions.

Comments etc welcome

James

Looks great!  Just saw this in my LHS last weekend.

Mike

Has anyone noticed the Gunsight is wrong? The A/C that AIRFIX went by was the last remaining example, was found in the U.S. and missing a number of pieces, Fuselage panels, oil cooler, gunsight, etc.,etc. The G.S. provided is a Tempest only version.{from everything I can find}. Should be a reflector G.S. This should be an easy fix, the mount provided is correct and there are plenty of 1/24th scale Spitfires out there with the correct sight. I think for the price,this A/C is a steal, any aftermarket piece you may have to purchase, will still make this a VERY affordable kit. This G.S. issue is minor compared to the rest of the detailing of this excellent model. Yes my kit also had a defective canopy set, but no warpage of any sprue or pieces. My color pics of the Napier, in a Typhoon, during war time service, show the motor black. But as in the G.S. is only my 2 cents. James your model looks excellent, and on your word I am going to buy the Master model Hispano kit. THANK-YOU! - Bob    

Thanks Bob for your kind comments.....

Most Napier Sabres were a very dark green. On period colour film and exposure they could look black, but black ones were not uncommon.

The Master Model Cannons are the correct barrels for the Tiffy, but you will need to make some alterations to fit them including hollowing out the cannon fairings to fit.

The radiator mesh detailing is incorrect. here is a set that corrects them....

www.radubstore.com/index.php

Mask for the canopy

www.radubstore.com/index.php

Correct pilot harness'

QK.... Tiffy 1a and Early 1b up to summer 1944

www.radubstore.com/index.php

Correct harness Summer '44 onwards

QS / QL / QP Harness

www.radubstore.com/index.php

There is other stuff coming available. from various companies.

Yes there are flaws and gaffes..... every kit has one, but they are correctable (apart from the canopy flaw ATM) but as far as 1/24 kits go this is a gem and one that challenges.

Now if Airfix could only have done like Tamiya and ZM do with their engine cowlings and made them thinner to fit over the detailed up engine then I would be more than happy... I would be in heaven.. still. I want more of this stuff from them!

James, Thanks for the info. Yes, I agree all kits do have their flaws. I do have the Spit 1/32nd series from Tamiya and the Zm 1/32nd He-219. All still to be built. I prefer P-47's, Trumpeter's are good for now,but I'm hoping Tamiya does release 1/32nd versions also. I have Vintage airframes 1/24th P-47, but that is basically a Tamiya kit with a detailed R-2800 and mount. For the price and detail this Typhoon cannot be beat. So the minor flaws do not bother me. That being said, I still plan on installing the correct Gunsight. It seems from what I read on A LOT of other hobby sites, you are not the only one hollering for a Tempest. Your "Tiffy" looks excellent, good luck with the rest of your build.  - Bob    

Thanks Bob, keep following this. At this moment I am working on just how to mix and match to display the engine and some of the cowlng. An update will come as soon as the money arrives from the insurance so I can replace/fix my best camera lens.

Not only do I want Airfix to do a Tempest (and variants), but I want them also to make good on their promise of a car door Tiffy variant (provision has been made in this kit).

I also want them to keep this standard and detail of 1/24 and re-do their spitfire kits and bring them up to date..... and that's for a start. Although there are plenty of spit kits on the market and some very highly detailed kits, there is still room for a large spitfire kit with lots of detail to display.

I would love them also to do an ME 262 with as much detail as the tiffy too.... It's time, Airfix, It's time!

This is proving to be a very epic journey and I am really close to scrapping the bloody thing.

Since my last post I realised that to get any further forward, especially with the paint job I had to put the fuselage on etc. This is causing endless frustration and now I have ground to a halt because I can't see a fix for this or just how to proceed.

Now the upper wing is in place and everything lined up. Gunport openings lined up, leading edge lined up etc. nothing out of place and everything looks good. Then the port fuselage goes in and it all goes bad. Once in place and glued according to fixing points and instructions I get this......

A 2mm drop difference between the joint and a gap you can drive a tank down.

There is no way IMHO of fixing this without twisting everything out of place and warping the build!

Wow!

Ouch!  Any chance oi installing a spreader bar under the seat at the rear of the fillet?

James

If you can still get the fuselage off the wings I'd be tempted to see if you can sand something off the bottom of the cockpit assembly as it almost looks like that is causing the wings to "drop" down. I had a similar problem on my Sopwith Pup for the WW1 build and that worked

Other than that its a splint and fill time, which will be a major pain.

Phil

Just had a look at the instructions I'd also check the wheel well roof is all the way down, not sure if that could cause the issue but it could be twisting the wing down at the back if its too high. Sure you have checked these things but just thinking what I could have messed up

Phil

I am going to try and take off the upper wing section and see what is happening. I am sure that the fuselage is in correctly, so I will add the starboard fuselage which fits just fine as I have just done a dry fit and see if I can correct the port wing fault

Before I get going, I would like to point out that the fault is with me and my building skills and not the kit.

The fault is somewhere under the trailing edge of the wing root. It could be that a part is just slightly misaligned in the wing structure in this area or the cockpit section not seated properly to the bottom wing section.

I can't tell properly without stripping everything down and I have caused enough split and tearing to the wing tip during separation to warrant either a major repair job if possible, or just mark it down to a lesson learned and scrap it, get another and start again!

Here you can see the gap. it is with the fuselage and not the wing. my work on the wing was correct.

I have tried correcting it with glue and clamping, but even when the glue has gripped and cured it springs apart. this means to me that there is something wrong further in where I can't see. Everything else lines up OK!!!!

I am reluctant to try superglue as I am not sure that it has the tensile strength, and besides when it is clamped in place there is a slight twist to the fuselage.

This is me at my best when I **** up!

I Have an idea to fudge things by cutting a chunk of the upper wing out which would give me room to mess with to align things and hide the botch. It will also allow me to display one of the fuel tanks etc

 Believe it or not.... the starboard fuselage looks just fine!!!!!!!!!!

If anyone has suggestions etc.... please join in!