So here we go, I`m finally going to start that base build RB-36 that I have been saying for a couple of years to get a feel for this kit. This will be a basic "stock build" with nothing elaborate, and will only use parts that came with the kit - other than decals. No seem filling, no expensive painting, and no fixing of "errors" ( other than minor ones such as rounding the prop blades ) made by the manufacturer.
I`ll be building RB-36E serial number 44-92020 which began life as a B-36A. This was the 19th B-36 frame built by Convair, and the 17th Production B-36 produced. It was delivered to the Air Force in Sep `48 . In 1950, this craft was returned to Convair`s Ft Worth plant where it was largely disassembled and "remanufactured" into an RB-36. Since it was a conversion of an "A" model over to an RB it was classified as an "E" instead of a "D" which was orignally build as an RB. Most "B" models were sent to Convair`s facility in San Diego to undergo this same conversion, due to Ft Worth being at max production, where they were converted over to the full "D" standard. Later this craft was updated to a class II Featherweight standard and remained in service with the 5th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing at Travis AFB until it`s retirement in 1956. It was as part of the first B-36`s to be retired and sent to Davis Monthan for scrapping and reclaimation. A temporary dip in the economy which caused funding delays in B-52 procurments, and the need to have spare B-36 parts because they were needed for a few more years of service, saved the eventual scrapping of this craft until late in Fiscal Year 1957 cycle.
With the history out of the way, lets take a look at the kit being used.
I selected a 1989 kit I picked up at a yard sale for $10 ---- Yes Reasoned -- $10!
It`s a good price, but as you can see the stock decals are yellowed & trashed due to age and improper storage.
Oh well, thankfully Warbirds has the replacement on one of their sheets
Moving right along into the physical inspection of the nearly 25 year old kit.
Only One prop is broken..... Not bad.
These little guys were so happy to be free they had themselves a breakdance party!
Soon they will join their comrads and be on their way to Teutonic222.
Next session: Adding support to the wing spar
B-36 Peacemaker Builds
On the Bench: B-36 paint test fusealge & RB-36E assembly test build
In Que: YB-36 Conversion Build & B-36 carries B-58 Airframe to Wright Patterson
Conceptual Planning: RB-36 X-15 Mothership