Looks like a really nice kit. Looking forward to your build!

To Ulterior Modem,

It really is and I concur, I also cannot wait to start my build.

Toshi

I think I'm going to have to change my opinion of Tamiya.  I'm seeing photo etch, canopy masks, generous decals- stuff you would have to go AM on other kits.

To Wirraway,

I'm sorry that in the past apparently Tamiya has disappointed you.  Please note that it is only the 1:32 kits that have the complete aftermarket kits included in the builds.  These kits run at or around $100.00 plus.  On that note, if you purchase a kit and add the same included aftermarket items, you get to the same price point.  So it evens things out.  

What's cool is the amount of detail there is for the aircraft.  I've built two 1:32 kits, a P-51D Mustang and a F4U-1 Corsair Bird Cage Canopy.  There is one more propeller driven aircraft, a Supermarine Spitfire.  If you're a fan of modern day jets, the 1:32 kits cater to this genre of jets.  Ultimately, there's a lot to choose from.

Going back to my zero, there's a display stand, the box turns into a storage and a display.  The engine can be displayed, wings fold, landing gears are styrene wrapped around metal with actual spring action and so on and so forth.  The accuracy and detail is something I've never seen before.  

I hope that you continue to follow this thread as I'm going to do a complete WIP.  I'm currently awaiting my Tamiya paints, it should arrive sometime this week, upon it's arrival I'll start this build ASAP.  Thank you for the read and reply.

Toshi

Looking forward to seeing the amount of detail this kit offers.

Man, it's amazing BrandonK!  I thought the Tamiya 1:32 Mustang and Corsair build were extremely detailed, this blows it out of the water.  It's as if I'm building a real zero.  I should be able to start this build in a few days.  I'm just waiting on my Tamiya paints.  As with the majority of all model kit builds, the first thing to tackle is the cockpit.  I need something called Japanese aircraft cockpit green, this color is part of my delivery.

Toshi

Wow, that's just amazing Toshi. I still haven't bought any of the new 1/32nd Tamiya kits but gosh that's tempting! Though I have a 1/32nd Hasegawa P-47 I really need to build first...

And as to the interior colour the Mitsubishi Zeros had an interior that looks pretty darn close to US interior green/zinc chromate green to me. Those built under license by Nakajima the interior looks really close to RAF interior green. Or so they seem to my tired old eyes!

To Gamera,

I highly recommend this series, especially in the hands of a pro like you!  I tried mixing paints until 1:00am.  Mrs. Toshi got really mad, she said; "Stop wasting paint and just buy the correct one"!  I heard and I shall obey.  LOL!  No, Really.

At the very least, I'll have the correct Tamiya XF-3108766003275 or whatever it is!  Ha,Ha!

You should see the correct exterior color, it's horendous.  It's called Japanese Navy Green-Gray.  Yuk.  I hope that when I spray this on that this will look authentic and not some type of lime colored custom airplane.  

Get this, a section of the engine frame requires a paint called Metallic Blue.  What am I building here?  A "1967 Shelby Cobra Mustang with a 428ci double pumper"!  Hah!

Thanks for the visit, I'm always honored sir.

Toshi

I have one of these in the stash I picked up for $65 online.  Looking forward to building it one day

Hey Toshi- yeah the Green-grey is something called either ame-iro (caramel candy colour) or mei-kaishoku  (ash green colour) or something like that. Here is an article on the colour but I've read it several times and it just makes my head hurt- I'd just go with whatever Mr. Tamiya says is correct! 

The metallic blue is aotake. The Japanese factories painted the interior parts with a bluish varnish as an anti-corrosion measure. It was translucent so you can see the shiny metallic though the blue. I've painted parts with aluminum paint and then put a light coat of Tamiya clear blue over them before but the metallic blue paint looks almost as good. The aotake did slightly shift colour as it aged though becoming more green so on a old battered plane you can can go with a metallic greenish-blue or just straight metallic blue on a new plane.

Sorry hope I didn't bore you, some people really get into American or German aircraft but I love Japanese planes- don't ask me why- I'm Scotch-Irish by heritage!  

To Gamera,

Wow, not only is your knowledge superb but the mastery of such a difficult language is so mastered by you sir, I'm beyond impressed.  Since my accident, I forgot everything pertaining to the Japanese language.  I used to be able to read, write, and speak fluent Japanese.  

Believe me you, just by your explanation of the Tamiya colors in Japanese, you've actually jogged my memory.  I'm in tears right now!  Thank you, thank you, and thank you!  You've healed me, all this just from a FSM forum.  Oh, wow!

Allan Toshio Miura Jr.

Wow, God bless you sir! I'm afraid I don't know much Japanese at all, I took a few courses but frankly was pretty terrible. About all I know is technical terms and I'm not even sure I pronounce them correctly! I enjoy your stories and am happy to help out in return if I can.

Cliff

Toshi - You're quite a fortunate man, to have so many members for "pen pal's." I truly love to see the interest it has rekindled in your modeling, then you sharing so much of your and your families history with them. Well done, Cliff, and all the other members that are so kind and encouraging.

Toshi, when you finish this Zero I'll bet it will be your best one of all. I'm looking forward to it.

Patrick

To SubarooMike,

That's a great price, mines came out to $110.00 including S&H via EBay.  I'm still in shock that the box itself turns into a presentation and storage facility for the "Zeke".  Thank you for visiting this thread and the reply.

Toshi

To Patrick206,

Yes, I agree with what you've written.  Technically, I should be dead, so says all my doctors.  So I feel I'm fortunate and blessed as you so correctly wrote.  It is members like you that uplift me everyday with your encouragement and general day to day activities.

As for my Zero, I don't know if it'll be my best yet, but you can count on me to ensure that I'll assemble and build the "Zeke" to the best of my abilities.  Thank you sir for everything!

Toshi

Toshi

May I suggest with respect you check out a fella on YouTube he goes by"International British Modeler"

He currently has a "Group Build" contest. He built 2 1/48 Tamaya "Zeke"s. He is a superb modeler and informs you step by step how he builds and what paints the models. His colours are spot on and the finished product is a sight to behold.

Please check him out.!!

Looking forward to this one as always, Toshi!

The Type 21...my favorite zero.  Tamiya's XF-76 is their reprepresentation of Ame-hiro.  It's what I use for this elusive color and I like it. I look forward to your progress Toshi.

Joe  

Hurray! I found your next build! I was hopping I wouldn't miss this.

Steve

To BlackTulip109,

That's why I love you forum members, there's always, always something new to learn!  I will check out "International British Modeler" ASAP!  Thank you for the read and reply, especially the tip.  There's no disrespect on my end, I have an abundance of respect for you and forum members.

Toshi

To Devil Dawg,

I too can't wait to build this kit, hence my build of the P-47 Thunderbolt.  It's a interim kit, yet I now enjoy and am having so much fun building the P-47.  I have the OG P-47 Thunderbolt and the new A-10 Thunderbolt II, this is so cool.  Thank you for everything sir!

Toshi

To lawdog114,

I'm glad we are both on the same page, there are so many variances in the Zero, I didn't know which Zero to build.  If my memory serves me right XF-76 Ame-Hiro, has arrived, I just need to pick it up at the office center here at Settlers Landing (The condo at which Mrs. Toshi and I reside at).  All I need to start this project is my Japanese Cockpit Interior Color Green.  

I purchased a special ten 35ml. bulk set from a seller named Jackrabbit via eBay, his store has so much Tamiya paint and other misc. items at reasanoble prices it was a exciting experience for me just to purchase it, imagine a little kid being told to buy toys for himself!  LOL!

The rest of the paints should be here today and or tomorrow, I'm hoping today.  Thank you lawdog114 for every thing you've done for me.

Toshi

To modelcrazy,

Yes, it will be my next build; "If my freak'in Tamiya paints arrive" LOL!  Thank you sir for the read and reply as well as following my WIP builds.  This means so much to me.

Toshi

To my fellow forum members,

I've finally received my Tamiya paints.  The seller via eBay, jackrabbit has been a upmost professional individual.  He made sure that I had ordered the correct paints for this build.  I ended up purchasing a lot of ten 23ml Tamiya acrylics.  As I've never used Tamiya paints in my life, this should be a refreshing experiment.  Remember those scientific kits when we were all children?  That's the ones where you mix things up and test your concoction with litmus paper.  I'll be following closely in what we used to do as children.

Some time tomorrow after breakfast, I'll start the Zero build.  What's unusual about this build is that the first thing to assemble is glueing the two halves of the fuselage together, how weird is that!  Normally it's the cockpit that gets all the attention, not this time.

So far things looks good, it's when you get to the cockpit at step four, that's when things get interesting.  Well, all I know is one step at a time.

Toshi

This is what held me up.

Mr Toshi,

Those are some nice pics Mrs Toshi downloaded for you, just make sure while your looking, the pictures of the real plane aren't of an AT6 modified to look like a Zero, and done very well too (the wings, gear and cowl are quick giveaways). Those are owned by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) and were used to great extent in TV and movies. The have since purchased a real flyable A6M for their inventory. There are VERY few flying Zero's, maybe 2 I think. I could be wrong though.
The cockpit picture looks to be correct. Probably off the plane below.

Actual Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Zero at the Reno Air Races in 2013.

I have a story about the AT6 Zeros, if your interested.

After I graduated High School, I wanted to be an aircraft mechanic. So I attended an 18 mo school in Waco Tx in 1979-1980.
Well in August 1980, here comes this massive hurricane called Allen into the gulf coast. Since the Commemorative Air Force (Confederate Air Force at that time) was located in Brownsville Texas, right on the coast then, they needed to move their inventory to safer ground. The CAF spread all their planes to different locations, and our airport received their "Japanese" squadron.
Well I was walking out of a hanger at the field and heard the sound of several radial engines flying overhead. When I looked, I saw several "Zeros" flying overhead and and peeling off for a landing, and thought of what the guys at Pearl must have felt. I was so excited! I couldn't believe my luck to see those planes up close.

Steve

Looking forward to watching this one, Toshi. Looks like a great kit, and thanks for the peek inside the box.

Toshi,

You'll find alot of conflicting info on what color the Zero, inside and out, is supposed to be. Most of this is personal preference and not based on fact. To this day, no one really knows for sure exactly what the color was, so you kinda gotta go with what you feel is best to meet your own personal desires. I spent a great deal of time researching my Zero and settled on the Tamiya Grey Green XF-76 and the Mr Color Cowling Color #125, which is a black with a blue tinge. The cockpit I used Tamiya XF-71 slightly darkened with a black base and light coat to allow it to show through a bit.

Overall, everyone has their own opinion on how it should look and you are just gonna have to settle for what you feel is best. I even went so far as to have a lengthy conversation with a gentleman who had researched this for some 30+ years. I still felt like I had to guess on the colors. Keep in mind that many of the restored planes you see photos of are also just another guess. Paint this thing as YOU see best and enjoy the process. I don't think we will ever settle on any one EXACT color for the Zero.

Here is a link you can check out. I found the images very helpful.

modelingmadness.com/earlya6mcolors.htm

Good luck,

BK

Thank you modelcrazy for the insight.  There's so much information out there it's had to try pick the ones that are accurate.  Thank you for the read, reply, and these wonderful photos.

Toshi

To Greg,

Your welcome!  This kit has a lot of things that are going on, especially the cockpit.  One step at a time.  Thanks for the visit.

Toshi

To BrandonK,

Wow, this is a huge amount of information, thank you.  This is the first time I'm using Tamiya paints, it's a bit of experimenting for me, so far I really like Tamiya paints.  The XF-71 cockpit green (IJN) looks really nice.  As for accuracy, I highly agree with your statement.  Thank you BrandonK, for all you do.  I really appreciate it.

Toshi

Below, is the left side of the fuselage.  It took me four hours just to get this far, right now I'm looking at the cockpit and it looks cool yet scary!  LOL!  One step at a time.

Toshi

The assembly of the Zero is much more difficult for me then the Tamiya 1:32 Corsair and Mustang.  At least that's what it seems to me in my humble opinion.  

I forgot to add this.

That looks like a perfect interior green Toshi.

Coming along nicely Toshi!

Paraphrasing one of my father's favorite sayings, If you don't like how Tamiya lays down through your airbrush, you don't like NUTHIN!.

I agree on the interior green, looks good.

To modelcrazy, Gamera, and Greg,

Thank you for the visit and the replies.  I'm glad that I waited for the Tamiya XF-71 Cockpit Green.  I do agree with you gentlemen, it looks great.  As you can see, the majority of the interior parts are minuscule at best.  I'm so happy that I purchased the magna-visor.  Yeah, I can see!  

The assembly of the fuselage was a pleasure to put together, everything went like clock work.  The only interesting item was the components that made up the retractable arresting hook.  You'll see it below among today's build.  

Toshi

The dry fit of the fuselage did not need any white adhesive nor tape.  It almost went together like a snaptite kit.  LOL!

These are the components that make up the retractable arresting hook.  The blue tube consist of Tamiya grease.  It was needed for the spring loaded mechanism.

What a cool looking gizmo thereToshi.

So let me get this straight. If the tail wheel is retracted, the tailhook extends? If not, what is that little wedge button in front of the tail wheel gear?

Either way, that is so cool, I'm so jealous right now.

 Retractable arresting hook..... 

Whoa... 

That sounds almost as cool as free donuts... 

Wow. Leave it to Tamiya. (and Beaver, I suppose)

To modelcrazy,

No, the tail wheel attaches to the silver coupling.  Hopefully it works.  Thanks for the look.

Thanks,

Toshi

To Gamera,

Oh nooooo!  Free DONUTS for me is better, and black coffee!  Yum!  Thank you for the read and yummy reply.

Toshi

To Greg,

LOL!  Yes, and let's not forget, Wally, Ward, June, and my peeps, Eddie Haskell!  Thank you for the look.

Toshi

What a cool kit and what a beautiful job you're doing on it so far Toshi.  I'm excited for you and for your next updates.  I'm following your build closely ( as Always my friend )

Hi, Toshi - Looks like you have the Tamiya paint and your airbrush dialed in. The finish looks just great, and your careful building with the "one step at a time" method is serving you well. Every day we see how your many projects proceed, having as a member is a welcome treat. You're making great progress and are already a very good builder.

Now take a break, go get a black coffee and a doughnut. (Make mine an apple fritter, please.)

Patrick

To Jay Jay,

The kit is a little crazy and yet, very fun also.  Takes awhile to decipher what the drawing is about.

Thank you for following this build and the others that I have completed in the past.  

Your friend,

Toshi

Hello Patrick206, thank you so much for the kind words.  The AB can be fun and challenging at times.  Lots of maintenance and lots of cleaning as well.  LOL!  But it's worth it!

Toshi

7/13/15 Monday Evening,

As you can see, step three is the assembling of the fuselage.  I felt that the front of the fuselage where it meets the cowling definitely needed to be braced.  A simple tooth pick did the job.  As for the cockpit, that is only the right side, it's half way done.  I'll probably be able to complete the right side sometime tomorrow.  Thank you forum members for following this build!  Here is today's work.

Toshi

As promised, I've finished the right side of the cockpit.  It is not much to show with only two frames.  But I'm finding that with all these tiny microscopic parts, the build is slowly coming together.  I cleaned up the right side cockpit and added the control levers as you can see.  Now my attention is now drawn to the left side cockpit.  Thank you forum members for visiting and replying on this thread.

Toshi

Left side cockpit, 50% done.

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[URL=http://s1282.photobucket.com/user/hayn0824/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/FF9208EC-AA56-4040-BA20-AD15A050AFF5_zpsu8mthclq.jpg.html]

7/14/15 evening,

Right side and left side cockpit completed.  Now onto the main cockpit.  I'll update any further advancement tomorrow.  Thank you forum members.

Toshi

That is really intricate Toshi. Next thing you know you'll be getting into PE.

LOL!  The only PE I'll be doing is physical education.  LOL!  Thanks for the visit Modelcrazy.

Toshi

One step at a time, so says my new motto!  Actually, those are Mrs. Toshi's words.  So, step by step, I've got half of the cockpit put together.  The other half contains the pilot seat and PE seat belts plus a few other things that I currently don't recognize.  For some reason, I had a little difficulty comprehending the instructions for the cockpit.  There's just too many variances, it's a bit overwhelming, but I must admit it was extremely tedious, time consuming, fun, exciting, and a big surprise!  Why surprised?  I never would have thought that I could put this together.  

I dry fitted the cockpit to the fuselage and it fits like a glove.  I'm pleased with that, I'm crossing my fingers that the rest of the build will be so.  Here is what I have so far, thank you very much forum members.

Toshi

"Cockpit Floor".

"Left and right side attached to the cockpit floor".  (Front View)

(Top View)

(Rear view)

You do a very nice job with your detail painting, Toshi.

Thank you very much Greg!  I learned this among other techniques from wonderful and very exciting FSM forum members, like yourself.  My aim is to keep moving forward and to present a build that continues to exceed the last build I do.  Greg, I really appreciate the support that you constantly give me, it's a factor that drives me to be better at model kit building.

Thank you once again,

Toshi

After that cockpit, the rest of the build is going to be a snap.

Again looks good Toshi. I have a birthday coming up in two months, I may have to pick up one of these as a little birthday gift to myself!

Beautiful cockpit Toshi! You've got the right mindset about trying to do better with each build, and I must say you are succeeding! Can't wait to see more, keep up the great work!

-Andy

To modelcrazy,

Oh, no.  I don't know about that, the engine looks to be another challenge coming up.  It looks just like the Tamiya 1/32 Corsair engine with several modifications.  The build and installation follows the same procedure as the Corsair engine.  So this helps me a bit, but not by much.  LOL!  Thank you for the vote of confidence as well as watching my back.

Toshi

To gamera,

It's a great kit, lots of fine detail and gimmicks like the retractable landing gear and foldable and removable wing tips.  I definately recommend this kit in the hands of a pro like you.  Thank you for the visit and the reply.

Toshi

Rooster513, thank you very much.  Believe me you, I'm doing the best I can to the best of my abilities.  LOL!  I really appreciate your support in my past builds, especially my current build of the Mitsubishi Zero as well as your kind words of encouragement.  Thanks for always checking in and the replies you leave, it's greatly appreciated.

Toshi

In two weeks I accomplished just what you see below which is still a partial build of the cockpit.  I still need to assemble the instrument panel but at this time, I figure I'd take a quick break and compose this portion of a continuation of the Zero build thread.  So I'm really slacking as in a week I normally can build a entire kit!  LOL!  

Although a joke, it's true as well, it's just the schematics for the Zero assembly needs to be deciphered in my eyes as I'm building a specific model number.  According to the schematic, I chose build A.  As for the next step, I'll assemble some of the wings, then onto the engine of which is another challenge that I can preclude at this time.  I'll know more as I get to that point.  

Until then, I've taken some photos of the cockpit prior to attaching the instrument panel.  Once I do attach the instrument panel, I can foresee that the panel will be blocking any attempt in taking detailed photos of the interior cockpit. Please see below for my progress.  As always, I appreciate forum members for supporting and viewing my builds as well as the many replies.  This makes my day go by quickly especially being at home for the majority of my time.  I really am honored to be a forum member of FSM!  Thank you everyone for excepting me.

Toshi

The seatbelt in this kit is made of paper stickers.

As you can now see, I at first was disappointed as I was expecting PE seat belts.  The paper sticker seat belts actually looks very good.  You be the judge.

The completed set of seat belts A, B, C, and D as the diagram denotes.

Front view.

Side view.  I painted the outer frame work just for the photo presentation.

Side view.

Top View.

7/16/15 evening,

Cockpit complete, installed into fuselage.  Next phase, wings.

Hi, Toshi - Now that's a mighty nice looking office, it will grace the finished model perfectly. Your new method of building these more complex kits is turning out some fine work, I know it's quite a change from the old Toshi way, (24 hrs = one model,) but just look at the difference you're achieving now.

Very good job, Buddy, thanks for the photo's and post's.

Patrick

Thank you Patrick206, yes, I think I found my niche!  I really like these difficult models, building the challenging kits that make me have to overcome my (Traumatic Brain Injury) or TBI makes me inspired to do that much better.  Even the doctors and therapists see a huge improvement, and when they see the threads here on FSM forum, they are completely shocked at what I've been able to accomplish.

I feel great knowing that I'm slowly but surely am regaining the fine motor skills I once had.  Back in my day, I used to prepare dioramas that included little baby rabbits and kittens playing in a forest all made with food.  A edible diorama if you will.  I really enjoyed presenting such the artistic side of me, it was an extension of my musical career.

I have to emphasize that it is FSM forum members like you that have guided and supported my efforts in my growth while I build each and every model kit, even if it takes me twenty four hours to build a kit. LOL!!!!

My next project is a "Visible B-17G (Flying Fortress).  I purchased six different PE sets for each and every compartment, this should be another challenging build.  I'm also eyeing out and considering the Trumpeter 1:32 TBF Avenger and the Tamiya 1:32 Supermarine Spitfire as my next endevours.  I once again look forward in doing a WIP detailed thread for forum members.  

Due to my situation of being home bound, I so look forward to your read and replies as well as other members read and replies.  Thanks for making my day that much more meaningful and exciting.

Toshi

Wow Toshi you're becoming a very talented builder.  Your Zero looks top notch so so far and I'm sure the rest of it will too.   Your detail painting on the office really makes it pop. A quality job on a quality kit my friend.

Jay Jay

Wow Toshi you're becoming a very talented builder.

I will second that! You've come a long way and now you're leaving a lot of us in the dust Really like the movable stabilizers and the cockpit looks great all buttoned up! Keep it coming

-Andy

Toshi my friend, I do enjoy watching your builds. I even got my wife interested.

Ah HA! So you are going to try some PE. I knew it, it is just a logical next step in your rehabilitation and regaining your fine motor skills.

That B-17 will be another enjoyable build for me to watch, after this fine project of coarse. I do hope you decide to join in on my Boeing Build with your B-17. Just post your build there and a separate WIP post like you always do (don't you dare deny your followers the enjoyment of your WIP posts) for you this suggestion in the GB rules would be mandatory.

If you decide to, just follow the Boeing Build link in my signature line.

Steve

To Jay Jay,

I'm not sure if it's a quality job but it is a quality kit.  I'll do my best to exceed yours and forum members expectations to the best of my meager abilities.  I saw your engine wiring on the B-26 build.  Can you give me some insight on how you did this please?  I would like to try and attempt this process with the Mitsubishi Zero Build.  Mr. Jay Jay, thank you for your support and everything you've done for me sir.

Toshi

Rooster513, I don't think I left anyone behind my dust.  It's possibly the other way around, I'm playing catch up with you all!  LOL!  

Thank you for the comments and the read and replies, besides the movable rudders, there's still the retractable landing gear and the landing gears have a spring loaded tension for a smooth landing on a carrier based mission.  I thought that was a ingenious plan on the part of Tamiya.  Let's just hope I can pull it off.

Toshi

That is one sick kit. I've read this is a really detailed model and you're proving that to be true. Super nice work so far my man. You make me want to build a 1/32, but alas, I must resist. Too many in the stash to add more right now. Keep up the good work.

BK

Please tell your wife Mrs. modelcrazy that I said I'm honored and thank her for her interest in the Zero build.  On my behalf, and at your recommendation, I have just entered your Boeing GB.  I understand that there are certain criteria needed to be met, if I'm not able to meet these rules, I can understand my build not being able to partake in your GB.

Please note, I'm in no way capable of building such a kit with the finesse and professional artistic rendition and building skills all forum members possess.  I don't have that type of technical abilities, I am in no way to say simply; "That good".  Please take this into consideration, as I don't want to upset other members of whom partake in the Boeing GB, it will not be fair to them.  Thank you very much for being there for me!

Toshi

Yes BrandonK, it's beyond sick!  I've been having trouble and some issues with certain parts of this kit but I was able to comprehend and overcome these obstacles with some time and patience not to mention Mrs. Toshi's direction and insight.  

Your perception is correct in that this is a very detailed model kit, I'm not even half way done and yet there's so much more intricate items to assemble it's as if I haven't even started this build.  You have correctly mentioned in the past on one of my many threads in that; "I am having fun and the excitement continues to grow with every piece that I cement together".  My passion continues to grow each day that is to your inspiring builds that you so proudly display!  Thank you so much BrandonK!

Toshi

Funny thing is, Toshi, that we can all see you do have some skills. You've already come a long way since your first posted build here. So don't be so down on yourself buddy. You're growing in your hobby just fine and making significant progress.

We can all see that with each completed build you do. :)

Take heart, my friend. You're in good company.

Toshi,

I have accepted you entrance in the Boeing Build and am looking forward to your project. Remember what I said though, you MUST post a separate WIP build for the 17 as there are several members who follow you that may not follow Group Builds. Don't deprive them of watching your impressive improvement.

Your Zeke is looking fantastic.

To M.Brindos,

Thank you sir.  This coming from such an esteemed colleague as you means much to me.  I went back and took a look at my P-61 Black Widow, my first build and thread here on FSM forum.  I do see that difference that you and other members speak of, it's just hard for me to remember (Short term memory) and recognize my growth.  

I hope I can do justice with this Zero build, at the very least that's my plan, thank you for being there since the very beginning of my modeling journey!

Toshi

Thank you modelcrazy, I'll do my best to not disappoint your GB members as I will also do as you recommend in that I will post a thread of the B-17G in the aircraft build here.  I want to thank you very much for this acceptance and am looking forward in partaking in my very first GB.  This is a very exciting adventure to me, I am looking forward and I will definately have fun in doing so!

Toshi

At the rate your skills are increasing you will surpass the rest of us by next week. Don't be fooled by modesty, you got some skills my man!!!

BK

Oh boy, BrandonK, I don't know what to say to this except THANK YOU for such glowing words!

Toshi

You can tell when either your getting old, either you can't see such small details and or it's getting really late at night and it's only 8:00pm.  Well, it happens to be both!  LOL!  Below is just a small update into the partial start of the main landing gears that retract.  The tiny wires were some thing to be afraid of.  Or was it?

I recall my dad telling me of a really scary story back in the day during the Cuban missile crisis.  While my dad served his time at SAC  "Strategic Air Command" in Wiesbaden, Germany, he was immediately sent to Miami, Florida.  He was told to stand guard at the several oil refineries in the south in case the Cuban Missile Crisis happened to excell by then dictator Fidel Castro.  Dad mentioned that he was truly afraid that if the crisis went forward, we would all be incinerated by the nuclear war heads.  

Now that's something to be truly afraid of.  If my memory serves me right, we were at Def Con 3 or 4, that's the highest we've ever been in a state of emergency.  

Toshi

I forgot to add, look at us now, the U.S. Is ready to open up an embassy in Cuba very soon.

"Can you give me some insight on how you did this please?  I would like to try and attempt this process with the Mitsubishi Zero Build"

Toshi,

In the case of the B-26, the engine wiring came with the PE set I bought from Edward. First The wires where painted flat black after annealing ,then it was a simple matter of CA glueing the ring in the proper place, and bending and glueing the wires into position on the cylinders.

That was the 1st time I used PE for wiring.  I usually scratch build the wiring using the finest copper wiring I can find , cut the many pieces to length, after annealing ,then bend to shape.  Then they are CA glued by dipping the wire ends in a blob of CA and installing 2 per cylinder.  It all takes considerable time but I think it's worth the effort.

Jay Jay, thank you for the direction in reference to the engine wiring.  As always my friend, thank you!

Toshi

These following components are part of the retractable landing gear.  I've actually installed them into the wing assembly and I'm allowing the CA to set.  It utilizes a mini L-shape turn buckle to activate the landing gears.  Here are the photos below.

Toshi

7/19/15 Sunday,

Here is where I'm at today.  Next up, flaps, masking cockpit windows and primer.

Hi, Toshi - This Zeke is looking scary good, what a model builder you have become, and in such a short time. Your detail painting of items like the interior framing and hand controls is just first rate, and the care you're are now giving to critical alignment of flight surfaces, such as the horizontal stabilizers, really is paying off by way of an accurate completion.

I think you'll be ready to have an entry for one of the IPMS conventions soon enough, maybe even score a ribbon. Great work, friend, and I'm truly happy to read that your doctor and therapists see you improving, this hobby is clearly much more than a simple diversion or entertainment for you. I had hoped that the hobby would make me a better man, but nope, I just build models.

Patrick

No sir, you as well as other members of FSM forum are not only better men but outstanding citizens of this wonderful modeling community.  A giant family of modelers if you will!  I'm just happy that I can tag along with you all.  If only the rest of the world leaders could see the good that everyone here incorporates, the world would be a much better place, at least a portion of the world is for now due to the existence of FSM forum and it's members.

As for entering a IPMS convention, that would definitely be a goal someday.  I don't even care about a ribbon and in actuality and in all truthfulness, I feel I'm a winner just by being excepted here as a FSM forum member and to have so many followers like yourself.  This is my score of a truly heart felt ribbon.  

I was in such a bad condition in that I was sent to a day care facility in Stow, Ohio called MENTIS.  I not only refused to go but was absolutely negative about my whole situation and in a deep state of severe clinical depression.  Then one day, I was forcefully taken out to an outing to Hobby Lobby.  I saw for the first time in a long time a Testors F4U Corsair.  When the therapist saw my eyes, they immediately purchased the Corsair kit and a tube of lemon smelling Testors glue in that blue colored tube.

Once back at the facility, I was able to complete my build in an amazing two hours.  I immediately went back to Hobby Lobby the next day with Mrs. Toshi and purchased my first serious build, Revell/Monogram 1:48 P-61 Black Widow of which was my very first thread here on FSM forum.  In two weeks, I was released to return back home to live there, I felt whole again.  All this just from a F4U Corsair.  As you now know and fellow forum members, the rest is history now!

Toshi

That is an amazing story Toshi. You are the type of guy I would gladly hang out with in the really real world.

I too have had to battle serious depression. I'm working my way out of it right now. It's not an easy thing to do. I understand that. To overcome such a deep depression and be in a place where you can be genuinely happy with your life and how every day is spent is a somewhat heroic thing. Not a "rescuing people from a burning building" type of heroism, but one that I understand to just as tough and far longer to deal with.

You sir, are my hero. You just keep on doin' what you came to do Toshi. Have fun and don't change a thing about your life if this is truly where you are happy. Your mental well being is necessary to live. Its a tough thing to learn the hard way.

You're making great progress there Toshi! And that retractable landing gear, looks complicated but seems like you've got it all in place.

I know what you're talking about when it comes to being down. I was in a car accident late last year and my left shoulder was banged up and is still sore. Guess I should shut up and quit grousing about it, you've had bigger problems and keep a positive attitude.

To M. Brindos,

We are both in good company, if you ever need to just talk to talk, email me anytime.  Concurrently I'm taking bupropion, cymbalta, and abilify.  I need these medications as at one point I decided that life was not worth living.  Through medication, family support, and a brother like you, I'm able to rise above the noise and see the sunset and the breath of morning air.  "One day at a time, one step at a time"!

Modeling gives me a sense of accomplishment, I'll purchase a kit, build it and see that I've actually started and finished assembling a aircraft or what will you.  This feels good to me.  Then to have proffesional modelers on this forum give praise is just a overwhelming sense of gratification and awe.

I have Mrs. Toshi, you have your father whom supports your hobby, we are both in good company.

miuraohana@sbcglobal.net

Toshi

Thank you Gamera, the retractable landing gear was somewhat of a head scratcher but I was able to figure it out.  What's cool is that the black piece is some type of strange resin/styrene wrapped around metal, another ingenious Tamiya modification.

I know how you feel as well, I know this is cliche but, only time will heal all things!  You're the man, I see you fighting through this, it takes a rare individual to do so.

Toshi

Kirkland, Ohio?  Oh wow, lawdog114, that's but a forty to forty five minute drive from my home in Streetsboro, Ohio off of 271 North towards 90 East.  I used to travel 90 East six days a week as I once resided in Ashtabula, Ohio, hence I know exactly where Kirkland is.  Do you have anymore information regarding the IMPS show that's in November?  Even if I don't enter my Zero, I would love to go just for the experience.  Who knows, maybe my next build the Monogram 1:48 Visible B-17G "Flying Fortress" will be entered instead of the Zero as the B-17G will be loaded with tons of PE if I can pull it off.  If not, then PE for me will stand for nothing but Physical Education.  LOL!

Lawdog114, the rules for FSM forum clearly state no nudity, religious and or political statements.  Getting into personal issues that we can all learn and grow from as modeler so as well as human beings are for the betterment for this forum, I'm sure is more than welcomed by the moderators of FSM forum and it's affiliates.  

Both Mrs. Toshi and I lost our parents at a extremely young age, and I mean extremely young age!  I know exactly where you're coming from.  Mrs. Toshi took her lost the hardest.  It was an extremely tragic statement in her life, it's been several decades and yet it still affects her.  In my case, both my parents knew they had only a limited time left hence, I was prepared for it.  At least to the best of my abilities as no one can really prepare for their list of a loved one especially mom and dad.

Mrs. Toshi told me to tell you that she and I both understand the situation in which you take the holidays as well as those special celebrated days to heart, it is at times like this in that we miss our parents present the most.  My grief comes from my children not having a grandmother and a grandfather from both My side and Mrs. Toshi's side to be with.  In this case our children are the ones that suffer by not knowing their grandparents nor having the time to spend with them.  

With this in mind, it is our upmost duty to take care of ourselves physically and mentally so as to allow the next generation to get to know what and where they came from through you.  Of course and to share the joys of model making.  Like you, I definately loose myself in assembling a model kit, it takes you to another time zone and makes you temporarily forget all the pain you once held for a small moment in time.  That's all you really need!  I too, like you, will have Netflix and or jazz music on as background noise.  Thank you lawdog114 for sharing the joys and sadness of life with me and forum members alike.  The secret meaning to life is as simple as this; "To live life to it's fullest".  This is due to the fact that life is fleeting at best hence, to make the most of it at all times possible, good and or bad.

Your brother,

Toshi

I am well aware of the issue that FSM forum is for the purpose of modeling, yet I'm sure many other modelers will concur, model making is a very personal endevour.  I feel when we can share in each other's accomplishments and failures, we all can learn from one another of whom and what the other individual is all about.  In truth, there is really no such thing as a failure, as long as we learn from our mistakes the so called failure becomes extinct at best, a learning curve if you will.

Continuing on with my Mitsubishi Zero build, I have two issues to bring into the light.  I broke my rear retractable landing gear and one of my small retractable cover plates for the main landing gear snapped off.  I can fix both of them hence I will not loose any sleep over them let alone waste any time nor energy in becoming upset at best.  Now that I'm at this juncture of the build, I'll be taking a long lunch break, only to return and mask my canopy. Once that's done, I'll attach the canopy to the fuselage with Testors clear parts cement and then utilize Tamiya Liquid Laquer Surface Gray Primer G.  Here is the Zero's top and bottom photo picture after I added putty and cleaned it up a bit.  Thank you forum members once again for your support in my efforts, trials, and errors.

Toshi

Movable wing flaps.

Its hard to realize that we are not alone. We are numerous, but depression makes is so damn hard to feel like there is any connection at all. To anything or anyone. So why am I surprised to know that my own grief is something that would be common in reality?

I'm on death watch here at my mother-in-laws house right now. Multiple organ failures, cancer, strokes, and heart attacks, yet she hangs on to enjoy life to the fullest each day. If that is not inspiring I don't know what is.

She will be severely missed. She's helped me to become a better man by calling me on my BS and expecting me to do what I say I'm going to do and holding me to every bit of it. She's one of my very best friends and I'm holding myself back so hard right now because I've been through this before. I lost a brother to suicide, Two Grandfather's, my favorite Uncle, and my friend Bruce, who despite being a crotchety old bastid to everyone else, loved to just hang out and talk to me as an equal.

I've seen them all go.

Modelling and family is holding my pieces together. I almost took myself out over this last Christmas. I was alone and there did not appear to be an end to the pain. I took a lot of allergy pills and took my chances with waking up. Next day my Dad came and picked me up. So here I am. Fixing what was broke to the best of my abilities with support.

I'm just hoping the scales are not knocked out of balance again with the latest string of events. But every day is new and every new day has its troubles and victories. One freakin' day at a time. Dang right about that.

Okay. This is not on topic, right? Lets get back to this terrific build. I want to see more of it.  :)

Stay strong Mike. We're all here for you and I'll be saying a few for you friend.

Thanks Andy. I will never turn that down. Faith is something I do have.

Now, to quote one of my all time favorite movies; "stay on target" lol

M. Brindos

Now, to quote one of my all time favorite movies; "stay on target" lol

Right you are Mike! Now if Toshi would just hurry back from lunch and show us some more great work! LOL Enjoy the break Toshi, you've earned it

Rooster 513, I second that motion!

Toshi

To Rooster513,

I'm back from my extended lunch, I was also watching History Channels Tank Battles in the Ardennes!  Now on to my masking of the canopy.  The only issue I have with the Tamiya mask is that it is not pre-cut.  I have to cut the masks out myself although they are marked.  It just makes it that much more of a challenge.  You know me, I live for challenges!  Here I go.

Toshi

Not pre cut?? That seems like a half-assed attempt at making customers happy.

Yes, I must agree.  I had a difficult time with my very first Tamiya 1:32 P-51D Mustang mask, hence I hand painted the canopy.  This time around, as such a PITA as it is, I'm able to get as close as possible.  See below for the outcome.  It is a pre-prep for the primer, I have to get ready and pick up Mrs. Toshi from work and have dinner.  I'll prime after dinner when things somewhat cool down outside.

Toshi

To Lawdog114,

I'll look that up now.  Yes, MENTIS is in Stow, Ohio.  It's on Marsh Road right behind Swensons.  There's a Hobby Lobby approximately 1/8th of a mile from MENTIS, that's where I get my models and model supplies from.  My son lives in Cuyahoga Falls, not too far from the giant chimney that's a radio broadcasting tower.  Wow, what a small world it is.

Toshi

I tip my hat to you for the work you did with that not-pre-cut-mask, Toshi. Admirable work.

I probably would have bought pre-cut masks after I saw those.

Thank you Greg for the glowing review in regards to the masks for the canopy in of which I had to cut out with a razor.  As I mentioned earlier, the Tamiya 1:32 P-51D Mustang was my first non-pre-cut canopy mask that I had to tend to with miserable results.  Of course I ended up painting the canopy free-hand.  With some practice, although not perfected yet, I was able to take it thus far.  

Greg, thank you so much for your support, you don't know how much this means to me.  

Toshi

To my fellow forum members, 

Here is the Zero in it's primer stage, next step is to AB the XF-76 IJN Gray-Green.

Toshi

The primer is the Tamiya Laquer Gray Liquid Surface Primer G.  I really like the coverage of this primer as well as the extremely ease of use, not to mention the ability to quickly dry in it's place and hold it's form.  I then sanded the Zero with 1200 grit wet sandpaper to get it to bite on the next coat of Tamiya XF-76 IJN Gray-Green.  This is the first time I'll be utilizing this very unusual and unique color.  So far I AB a small area just to see what it looks like, I was not disappointed at all.  You be the judge.  

Toshi

Wow Toshi, That's really starting to take shape now.

Thank you modelcrazy, it's getting there.  Much to do over the next several days but I shall continue to move forward.  Thank you for following this thread my friend, it's greatly appreciated!

Toshi  

I tried and I tried.  I attempted to highlight the panel lines, a lot of it was lost due to sanding.  On my next build, I'll learn how to re-scribe lost panel lines.  What's there though has turned out really well.  At least I now understand the conceptual idea of the process.

I really am enamored over the XF-76 IJN Green-Gray.  It's about as authentic as you can get.  If not, at the very least, I just love the unique color quality and the way it presents itself in the light spectrum.

Next step?  AB the rest of the attachment parts XF-76, assemble, assemble main landing gear, assemble engine, spray clear coat, decals, and seal.

Toshi

This kit has stunning detail. You are doing a bang up job on this one for sure. Great work, Toshi!!

BK

Toshi: Looks great! She's really starting to look like a Zero now.

Mike: Ouch, that blows to hear about all the losses in your family. I hope things straighten out soon.

Thanks BrandonK, all I'm doing is trying to keep up with forum members like you my friend!

Toshi

To lawdog114,

Wow, I didn't realize that the XF-76 was that close.  Thank you so much for all the information you've been sharing with me.  I could not have gotten this far without your assistance!

Toshi

Thank you so much Gamera, I'm just trying to keep up with the pros like you!

Toshi

That is a nice color. I've got to pick me up another zero and try mixing up that color myself. Both of my zeros are green. One with an aluminum finish on the bottom and the other just overall green.

I think I need to repaint the older one now that I've seen this Toshi.  :)

Guys, thanks for the well wishes. But this is Toshi's thread lol.

To M. Brindos,

I'd love to see you build another Zero with this paint scheme, you'll set a whole new standard in regards to the next build.  No, seriously!

As far as this thread is concerned, I'm more than honored that everyone utilizes this thread and many others that I write about.  It's never my thread, it's everyone's thread.  I'm more than happy to share this thread with forum members.

This is how I learn not only about model kit building but life in general!

Toshi

Good morning my fellow forum members,

Today is Wednesday July 22, 2015.  I love working outside especially spraying and or AB at 6:00am, the air is cool and crisp with little to no humidity, plus my cats enjoy watching the early morning birds. Today I'll be tackling the very unusual main landing gears that are not only retractable but have shock absorbers.  How wild is that.  

I can foresee the end of the Zero build only to start on the Monogram 1:48 Visible B-17G "Flying Fortress".  Once I start on the B-17G, I have my next possible build of the Trumpeter 1:32 TBF Avenger.  It's either the Avenger via eBay or the F4 Phantom "Wild Weasel" from Hobby Lobby.  Maybe if I'm good, Mrs. Toshi will let me get them both.  I'm jumping well ahead of my program here but it's never a bad thing to plan ahead.  Until I come to that juncture, here are some photos of the "Zeke", I just got done spraying (Rattle Can) Testors clear coat.  I'll work on the landing gears then attach the gears to the fuselage and it's off to the very complex engine.  

Until my next entry, I once again want to thank forum members for the read and replies and most of all, just for being here on this thread to visit.

Toshi

Toshi, your Zero is looking fantastic!  I really like the look and detail that goes into 1/32 WWII fighters.  I typically build 1/48 jet aircraft; and you can get great detail, most of the time for jets; however, since a 1/32 WWII fighter is approximately the same size as a 1/48 jet they are a lot of fun.  Looking forward to seeing this when you are finished.

To jelliott523,

Thank you for the kind words, it means so much to me.  I should have the Zero done by the end of the week or no later than the beginning of next week.  I'll then start on the Monogram 1:48 "Visible" B-17G (Flying Fortress).  I have a ton of PE for that build, it should be interesting if I can pull it off.  

Thank you for the read and reply!

Toshi

Finally, here is the results of the retractable landing gear with the spring loaded shock absorber.  It works, the only issue I have is that the more things start to move, the more delicate and intricate things can get.  If you are not careful, bad things can happen like the breaking of parts.  

In general, these little gimmicks definitely makes the model fun to build as well as giving the builder the cool factor.  Below is the breakdown of the landing gears.

Toshi

Amazingly intricate work on the gear Toshi. You won't have any problem with PE.

To modelcrazy,

Let's hope not.  I was just going over the PE for the B-17G build, some of the PE parts are ridiculously microscopic.  I'm hoping I'll be able to overcome any shortcomings.  So far, I've been able to make things happen, thanks to my magna-visor.  

Thank you modelcrazy for the read and reply!

Toshi

Here is a portion of the engine assembly.  While assembling the engine, I've been taking the luxury of photographing everything in detail, live.  

Toshi

Mr Toshi,

I used to be completely intimidated with PE, never touch the stuff, however, after dabbling with it for some cockpits I decided to jump in with both feet and bought a huge PE set for my 1/350 Indianapolis build. If you interested in seeing the thread just follow the link below.

USS Indianapolis

Now there is some small PE!  With a magnifying devise and a little patience, you'll be amazed with what you can accomplish. You will also be amazed how long it takes to work on such small parts, but I think you are discovering that now.

Your getting steady enough to give it a try IMO.

Steve

Steve, if I may, what adhesive did you use for your PE on the Indy and other builds?  I have some kits that have some PE.  I considered using CA and accelerator, but I also purchased some of the Gator Grip glue in the thick and thin formula.

You know me Jeremy, CA of course, silly guy. Medium mostly, just a drop on a sheet of plastic bag or similar and I just dip the end of the part into it. Some members will use Future to hold the part temporarily prior to gluing.

Gator Grip will probably work just fine, a little slow drying for me though.

Steve, I figured that you used CA, since you explained to me and showed me your builds.  I just wasnt sure if you had a special trick.

I too, used a medium thick CA to attach the parts, and if they were super small and I wanted to make sure they stayed in place I used a sewing needle that I cut off the top part of the eye and applied a small drop of accelerator onto the CA.  Worked great.

As for the Gator Grip, I've only used it once and that was for a canopy since it is water based and it worked better than the Testors Clear Parts cement IMO.

Yeah, I should really expand my world view and give some other types of glue a try.  

J, if you try the Gator's Grip thin with PE, would you let me know how it goes? According to the maker, he says the thin formula works even better and I'm curious. I think it's probably not just a watered down version of the regular, I've tried that.

The U.S.S. Indianapolis build is amazing, what discipline it took just to get it done.  I see where you discussed the issue with microscopic PE.  Intricate at best!  Thank you for taking the time out and sharing your past builds with me as well as with forum members.

Toshi

I know it's late but I haven't had lunch yet.  Mrs. Toshi is at work and when she found out that I did not eat lunch, she was upset as she knows me by now.  She knew that all I did today was to build this model kit.  LOL!  I'll just wait for dinner, I'm having way too much fun assembling the engine.  Speaking of the Zero's engine, please see below.

Thank you,

Toshi

Thanks Toshi,

My point is that if I can do that while being intimidated by PE, so can you. You have the talent.  

Indeed.

I also get lost in my projects and I don't eat until dinner regularly. I make sure the kids get fed and such, but I get lost lol.

That engine looks good Toshi. :)

You may want to do a bit of touch-up on those push rods as you didn't get them all silver. I'll recommend an dark brownish wash over them to dull them down a touch and give them a used look as well. That should make it "pop" for ya.  :D

To M.Brindos,

I will re-touch the push rods silver as recommended.  I went to Michaels with Mrs. Toshi on Sunday and Mrs. Toshi purchased a wash for me called "Testors CREATEFX Enamel Stain".  I have FX Gray Stain and FX Black Stain.  I'll use one of these as a wash for the Zero's engine.  Thank you for the tip, it's highly appreciated.  

After dinner, that's what I'll be working on.

Toshi

To modelcrazy,

Thank you so much for the vote of confidence.  I will take on the PE project head on and complete it to the best of my abilities.

Toshi

Here is today's work on the Tamiya 1:32 Zero build.  The majority of my time was spent on the engine.  Lots of detail as well as lots of fun!  Tomorrow I'll clean up the Zero as needed and take it from there.

Thanks for following and keeping it real for me.

Toshi

Wow Toshi,  your engine came out great !  very nicely detailed.  You said "you wish your engines could look as good as mine"   your wish has come true and then some, it looks better.

Thank you, I don't know about better but, I definately had a blast yesterday building the Zero's engine.  That was a all day affair.  

Toshi

Looking good Toshi! Always nice to see the plane standing on it's own two 'feet' as it were. And the engine looks really cool.

Greg

J, if you try the Gator's Grip thin with PE, would you let me know how it goes? According to the maker, he says the thin formula works even better and I'm curious. I think it's probably not just a watered down version of the regular, I've tried that.

Greg, I will definitely let you know how Gator's Grip works using their thin formula.  I'm going to probably give it a shot today sometime.  As for the thick, I've used it to secure the open canopy on my Bf-109 and it seems like its a fairly secure bond.  At least, as secure as clear parts can be, especially in the open position.

Thank you Gamera.  I'm on the home stretch right now.  I just have a few things to button up and then the decals and sealer.  Thank you for the read and reply.

Really looking good there Toshi.

BK

jelliott523

Greg, I will definitely let you know how Gator's Grip works using their thin formula.  I'm going to probably give it a shot today sometime.  As for the thick, I've used it to secure the open canopy on my Bf-109 and it seems like its a fairly secure bond.  At least, as secure as clear parts can be, especially in the open position.

Thanks, J. I'll look forward to your feedback.

BTW, I'm a fan of Gator Grip, and have been using the regular formula for a couple years for all my 'white glue' model-making needs because a couple years ago I had a finicky two-part gun turret that refused to stay together with any white glue except Gator Grip, and I tried just about all of them!

Curious, when you got your glue, did the maker send you his little cheat sheet on using it to apply PE parts?

Toshi, that engine looks great. Good work!!!

PS, don't not eat lunch. No need to get Mrs. Toshi upset with you.

To BrandonK,

Thank you, I'm having some major issues with the Tamiya decals.  I am going to get aftermarket decals.  Thank you for visiting and replying.

Thanks, the engine took some time to put together.  

I am having some issues with the Tamiya decals.  Looks like I have to purchase aftermarket decals.  I've heard horror stories, just never experienced these issues.  Now I have!

Here is the completed model.  I hope everyone enjoys the view.

Toshi

Beautiful work Toshi.  You nailed the Ame-hiro.  Have you considered trying a panel line wash? You'd be amazed at the difference.  It can be as easy as mixing pastel chalk water and a touch of dishwashing soap for surface tension.  Just an idea.  

Joe

No I have not considered that, I'll look into it.  Thanks for the visit!

Toshi

That's beautiful Toshi- love how she turned out!

Pretty, pretty, pretty.  The colors turned out just right to my eye.  The red stripes on the prop blades are just perfect.  Are those decals ?

You might wanna string an antenae wire from the tail to the mast ( I use 4 lb fishing line ,CA glued on each end ,then tightend up wih a blown out hot match .)

I sure have enjoyed your W.I.P. and I'm looking forward to your next project.

Thank you Gamera, your support was most precious to me!

Toshi

To Jay Jay,

Yes, those are decals.  The kit comes with a very thin mettalic wire for that very purpose.  I did not assemble that yet as I don't know if the storage system for the Zero would affect the wire itself.  Seems to which it doesn't, so later today I'll install the antennae while I start the build on the "Visible B-17G".  You can see below and I'll give step by step directions on how I did it.

Toshi

To my to my fellow forum members,

Here is the Zero before, during and after storage, I think it's an ingenious part on Tamiya to come up with such a contraption!  I'll give the basics down below.

Toshi

Here is the Zero in the holder.  The holder was a cover page if you will, it housed portions of the sprues during transport.  In order to place the Zero in the holder, you must remove the propeller, remove the wing tips, retract all landing gears and then place all the items in the storage box.  The storage box once housed all of the tiny pieces like the PE, screws, and springs. 

This shows what the bottom looks like.  You can pretty much store anything you choose to.

Here, you can see how the bottom of the model kit box becomes the actual holder.  The bottom of the storage box became these towers in the four corners so as to keep the antennae safe.  The top of the storage box now becomes the storage area that holds the propellers and wing tips.

Finally this is what the top of the Zero's storage system looks like thanks to Tamiya!

Fantastic job Toshi. You built another great kit. The detail is superb. Great work!!

BK

Ohhh, very cool! I always get models broken in storage. Very neat and thoughtful idea there.

Thank you BrandonK, I used a thread of yours as reference for the details needed.  Thanks for visiting!

Toshi

Yah.  At first I couldn't believe it, I thought the antennae would break because of the storage scenario.  I guess that's not the case.  Thank you again for all the read and replies!

Toshi

Toshi, my salute to you for this great build. What a super job, you're quite an advanced modeler now and in such a short time. This activity must be very effective therapy for you, I see huge improvement in your skills, when compared to results from just a few weeks ago. I think Lawdog is right, you're ready for one of the contests. Very nice work, my friend.

Patrick  

To BrandonK,

OH WOW!  Thank you for the support.  Your words are so kind it overwhelms me, I will keep doing my best to continue in this growth.  I now started the B-17G build, I did the first photo etch.

Toshi

Toshi, goodness.   Anyone who says you cant teach an old dog new tricks, clearly has not seen how rapidly your modeling skills have progressed.  

That is impressive. :D

Seriously impressive Toshi.

To M Brindos,

Those words coming from you means so much to me!

Toshi

Another fine model, Toshi. It is great to see you improving not just your modeling skills but also and probably  more importantly your motor skills and overall happiness.

I am looking forward to watching you participate in your first GB (Boeing GB). I hope you enjoy it and I think you will!

Greg, it is because of one Sunday.  I looked at my build of a Revell/Monogram P-61 Black Widow, I thought to myself; "I wonder if anybody builds models anymore."  Mrs. Toshi and I looked online and the first thing we saw was the FSM forum.  Once there, I signed up and the rest is history.

This first step led me to tools needed, pliers, tweezers, glue, etc. as I learned more of PE and airbrushing, everything just slowly has come together.  As always, thank you and forum members for your support in my builds, it means so much to me.

Toshi

Hi Toshi,

That is one very sweet looking Zero-sen! I really like the color scheme,as it looks great! I'll be following your Monogram B-17 build as well.Again fantastic job as usual my friend...Douglas

To roger_wilco,

Thank you so very much.  Yes, it took me awhile to get that Tamiya specific paint to arrive.  I utilized eBay.  Thank you for the visit.

Toshi