PACIFIC CARRIER AVIATION GROUP BUILD

Clemence: thanks for the input. I will consider your thoughts on this.  Very interesting.  

Thanks for posting those links, Freddie!

Steve: Now I'm by far no expert on decals, but I'd try cutting out as much of the film as possible. You don't have to cut exactly at the edges of the printed areas, just leave a bit of the clear film on there if you're worried about your cuts not being straight enough...

fjs3

Here are a couple links to download the Accurate Miniatures instruction sheet for anyone who needs them,

​web.archive.org/.../TBM-3D_0121.pdf

web.archive.org/.../TBM_1C_0120.pdf

web.archive.org/.../support.shtml

I know A/M is out of business, but this website is still there.

I hope this helps

Freddie from LI

Hey Freddie, thanks for those links! I printed those out a couple years back but neglected to save them on my PC and also lost the one about installing the canopy. In the meantime, I couldn't find the liks again Now thanks for you I'm redundantly protected for my future AM TBM second build (kit thanks to a generous friend).

Again, much appreciated. And soon as clear my paper jam, I'll have backup hardcopies of all 3 too!

Sweet work going on here, mates.

Greetings folks.  I want to get your opinions. The process of decaling is a short way off for me so I am getting my ducks lined up. As  you probably know by now, this is my first build in a very long time. Having said that, I have to relearn the decal process.   I think I have the basic process in mind when it comes to using Micro Set and Micro Sol.  I have watched videos and read articles.  I am not entirely new to using them either.  I had used them in my past modeling flurry. Still, I built mostly cars at that time and I wasn't dealing with rivets and panel lines.

Here is where the question comes into play.   I have ordered and received a decal sheet that has the markings that I want for this build.  I think they look ok, but I want your opinions on what trouble I might run into.  The markings for this plane are fairly large and they will cover a fair amount of detail.  My concern is about getting the decals to settle into/onto all the panel line/rivet detail without silvering. There seems to be a lot of clear areas between the markings.  You folks are more familiar with this.  Do these seem normal for aircraft decals?  Or am I dealing with something a little out of the norm? The setting solutions "should" handle this correct?

Many years ago I read about how some modelers will trim out all the clear portions of the decals.  I had tried that back then and I found that the process has it's pitfalls.  The worst of them was that any uneven cuts with your knife into the marking area became glaring once the decal was applied to the model. Applying the decals was much more difficult as well.  You really had to play with them in order to get them lined up.  I am sure that with practice a person can make this all work.  I am curious if any of you folks do this.

Lastly... I may even try airbrushing the markings. The markings for this build are one color, and they are fairly simple in shape.  It would seem an ideal project to try it on.   I have just experimented with making masks and with some success. I ran the decal sheet through my computer scanner, scaled the image correctly, then printed it onto paper.  The paper copy is now the underlying layer that I use to work on.  I tried various masking mediums and I have found that Tamiya Masking Tape works the best, and for several reasons. Firstly, the tape is somewhat opaque. I can clearly see the markings through the tape.  This makes it possible to trim the tape accordingly.  Secondly, there is something about Tamiya tape that makes it cut really well. I don't have to press as hard as the other masking mediums I tried and in order to cut through. Thirdly, the tape seems to have the perfect adhesion qualities.  Not too sticky, not too weak.  I was able to pull the tape off the paper without pulling any paper up.  And, the tape still held it's stickiness.  I was able to make some nice clean masks.  The only problem I had though, my tape is not large enough to cover the entire marking.  I did some research and Tamiya sells the tape in sheets, and, you can get them in much wider rolls than I have.  I have ordered both to try.

Sorry for the long read.  Your opinions are appreciated.

Thanks folks.

Steve

Hey Freddie...thanks for all the great input.  You guys have really boosted my esteem.  When I first started working on this kit I really wondered if my mental faculties were waning some. Since I had been away from modeling for 20+ years, I didn't remember if model instructions were as vague as this or not. I thought maybe it's just me.  These discussions really confirm for me that it's not just me.  Thanks as well for the links.  I have all that data courtesy of Greg, but it's good to have on this forum for other people looking to build this kit.  Nice job with that, Freddie.  

Here are a couple links to download the Accurate Miniatures instruction sheet for anyone who needs them,

​web.archive.org/.../TBM-3D_0121.pdf

web.archive.org/.../TBM_1C_0120.pdf

web.archive.org/.../support.shtml

I know A/M is out of business, but this website is still there.

I hope this helps

Freddie from LI

If I might jump in here.  In my humble opinion, the AM TBF series are one of the best engineered kits ever in 1:48.  I have built three of them over the years, and each build was a terrific experience.  

The major weakness with these kits, are the instruction sheet,  The illustrations are horrible, and barely, BARELY, give the builder a rough idea of what's going on.  However those horrid illustrations are complemented by written text that really does save the day.  They, and the color call outs listed for each step, really are a big help.  

Italieri, and Academy have both issued re-pops of these kits, and from all I have heard, and seen, the molds are showing their age, and the instruction sheet issue has never been addressed: they still are awful!!

That being said however, if you want to build a TBF/TBM in 1:48 scale, then the AM kit is the way to go, and no matter which boxing your dealing with, Italieri or Academy, get a copy of the AM instruction sheet, and use that to build with.

Just my 2 cents

Regards

Freddie from LI

Clemens...  IMO, I agree. Not worth it.  

Unfortunately i didn't have the time to build that Avenger kit yet, but I do have one of the Academy boxings pretty high on my build list. Greg sent me some scans of his instructions as well. My LHS used to have one of the original AM ones, but at almost twice the price of the Academy ones it wasn't worth the money IMO...

Clemence--thanks for weighing in on that.  Have you built the Avenger?  It sounds like you know this from experience.

That is exactly correct about the instructions.  Greg sent me the AM instructions and so I have both.  By themselves, both instruction sheets are poor. Having both is helpful, because one can fill in the gaps that the other one can't. Sometimes though, neither version gets me the info I need.  For example.  Last night I went to glue the motor in and I found that it can be installed in two directions.  One of them being upside-down. The diagram on the Academy instruction sheet is so murky in detail, you can't tell what end is up.  I did not even check the AM instructions figuring it won't help for the very reason you mentioned, they lack the diagrams. Like I have so often had to do on this build, I had to search the internet for Avenger images showing the detail that I need to see.  I found some last night looking towards the engine cowl, and now I "think" I got right. Shaking my head.  When it came to some of the interior components, I often had to make a best guess by dry fitting, and usually by fitting several components together just to be sure.  If you get it wrong, it often impacts the positioning of other components down the road, just like dominoes. There is one part that I never did figure out where to glue it.  It seemed be some kind of crossmember bar towards the rear tail gun assembly. Since it is not seen, and it didn't "seem" critical to the integrity of the assembly, I left it out.  Sigh.    

Bakster

Rob, thanks!  I believe the AM version is from the same mold.   Academy bought the mold from AM when they went out of business.  That is what I was told anyway.   Even though I complain about the sink marks, the vague instructions, and the fit issues, it's a nice model.

Yeah, the AM and Academy kit are exactly the same. The only difference are the instructions. Accurate Miniatures' instructions rely more on text to tell you what to do, so the diagrams aren't as detailed. Academy simply printed all the diagrams and left out the text completely. Go figure...

I just want to thank you guys for all kind words you've written, concerning my model building.   I have seen quite a few talented builders here as well, and I look forward to seeing all of your finished projects.  

If you have any questions about the models that I've posted, feel free to ask.

Thanks again and keep building those awesome models!!

Hey Silent Bob--thanks!  I see that you have the AM kit. My offer extends to you as well.

Rob, thanks!  I believe the AM version is from the same mold.   Academy bought the mold from AM when they went out of business.  That is what I was told anyway.   Even though I complain about the sink marks, the vague instructions, and the fit issues, it's a nice model. There is lots of detail, and a person can make an excellent piece out of it.  I struggle with it only because my skills are not there yet.  For a more seasoned modeler, this kit is a gem.  It is certainly not as polished as a Tamiya kit, but few are.  The price is right too.

Greg made the AM version a few years back and he has been a tremendous help with things. Like in my case, it was Greg's first build after a long time away from scale modeling.  He did a tremendous job on his kit.  I am not putting as much into this kit as he did.  There are various aftermarket items that you can get for this plane that will really dress it up nice.  He did that and it looks gorgeous. The GB that he was involved in with this plane is still accessible.  If you want further information, feel free to friend me and I can send you what I have, including a link to that GB. 

Thanks again!

Steve

Just to echo everyone else, great work Freddie!  Steve, your Avenger is looking great as well, I have the AM boxing of that kit so it's been very informative watching yours come together

Steve: Your Avenger is coming along nicely.  I am watching this with interest as I have one of these stashed away myself.

Freddie: As others have said, that is a nicely detailed cockpit.  You seem to be able to crank those planes out a pace I can only dream of and with an astounding level of detail in the process.

Freddie, I am hugely impressed with your -5 Hellcat. Really very nicely done. And the cockpit for your Corsair is looking excellent. Very nice detail. Man, I have got to get around to building one of my Tamiya F4U's. I've got a few.

Gentlemen, Yet again, I Thank You for the words and prayers of encouragement.  Admittedly there have been moments of despair during the course of my Hellcat build yet, I remain undaunted due to the support you all are giving me.

Joe & Steve, Thanks guys. You crack me up.

Great looking detail painting going on there, Freddie

fjs3

I made good progress, on the F4U-1, completing, and mounting the cockpit and sealing up the fuselage.  right now, that assembly is in the drying rack, but I do have a few pictures of the cockpit before she was closed up...

This is the rear bulkhead, and side consoles...

Next, the front bulkhead, instrument panel, stick and rudder pedals...

Here's a couple shots, with the cockpit assembly being test fitted inside the port and starboard fuselage halves...

Here is the seat, with a belt harness made from paper strips...

And lastly, the seat mounted to the rear bulkhead...

Tomorrow, I'll post the pictures of the fuselage, and depending how far I get, some pictures of the engine. 

Thanks for looking, and have a nice day tomorrow!!

Regards

Freddie from LI

Freddie: That Hellcat of yours is an absolute beauty! Some very nice work on the Corsair office as well!

Steve: Looks like you nailed the installation of the bomb bay doors!

Say Freddie--you are doing some really nice work. Great detail work on that cockpit.  You are a prolific builder!  Thanks as well for the encouragement...

Thanks, Craig.  I agree.  I can't wait to see it done!  It's like being pregnant for many months.  I want to pop this sucker out!  Lets give birth already.

Thanks, Mustang.  I appreciate your encouragement buddy.  BTW.  I agree with what you said to Joe.  I want that dark cloud to go away.  Like they say, "if it doesn't kill you, it makes you stronger."  Joe is going to come out of this stronger than ever! He will look like the Hulk!    Keep at Joe!

Looking good so far Bakster!  Looking forward to the finished piece.  Looks like the Accurate Miniatures kit?  I didn't realize Academy released those too.

Nice progress Steve.  Lookin' forward to the finished plane.

Freddie - That -5 is a real beaut!  The Corsair cockpit is really coming along nicely.  I wish I could move along quicker like you.

JR - Don't give up the ship.

Craig

Mustang--Correct Sir, that's Tamiya's 1:48 scale F4U-1.  I figured I could contribute a complete build before the March deadline!  The F6F, is Eduard's 1:48 kit, and the second of two I've built.  I still have to weather her a little bit and add the fiddly parts and she's fini!!

That's a nice looking Hellcat Freddie. That cockpit tub you're working on looks to be Tamiya all the way......is it?

Bakster it looks like you're Avenger is really starting to take shape. Lookin' good pal!

Joe Rix: I think it's time everybody "wished" that black cloud from over you. Hope you're able to recover soon. I'd like to think there's a finished Hellcat in the near future. Will be watching Joe.....

Here's a few of the F6F-5 that I am building also.  Just test fitting a few parts, removed all the masking, touched up a few places, and getting her ready for the weathering process.  She won't be too dirty however, because she was the CAG's aircraft, and they tended to keep personal aircraft, pretty cleaned up.

Thanks again for looking and have a great day Ya'll!!

Regards

Freddie from LI

I made good progress, on the F4U-1, completing, and mounting the cockpit and sealing up the fuselage.  right now, that assembly is in the drying rack, but I do have a few pictures of the cockpit before she was closed up...

This is the rear bulkhead, and side consoles...

Next, the front bulkhead, instrument panel, stick and rudder pedals...

Here's a couple shots, with the cockpit assembly being test fitted inside the port and starboard fuselage halves...

Here is the seat, with a belt harness made from paper strips...

And lastly, the seat mounted to the rear bulkhead...

Tomorrow, I'll post the pictures of the fuselage, and depending how far I get, some pictures of the engine. 

Thanks for looking, and have a nice day tomorrow!!

Regards

Freddie from LI

Hey thanks, Joe.  

Yes and no with regard to the stand.  I ordered a wooden base yesterday.  The stem is yet to be determined. So the answer is yes I am making the stand but no not entirely from scratch. 

Right On Steve! You did an exceptional sanding job to make those bay doors fit so nicely. Excellently done. I like the screw idea for the stand. Hey, I'm curious. Are you scratch building a stand for your Avenger? Again, very well done.

Greetings folks.  Well, I have the bomb bay closed up.  I am pretty happy with how it looks.   I am glad that its done.  I managed to pull that off without a major mess up. The plastic that Academy uses for this kit is really soft and It is very easy to mess up lines.  I had to be really careful not to overdo sanding or make a slip of where the grit was cutting.  This plastic is very unforgiving.  The soft plastic probably explains the vast number of sink-marks that this kit has as well.  There are very few parts that didn't show signs of them.

Oh... I should explain the threaded screw coming out from under the fuselage.  I  will also make a stand that will attach to that. The nice thing about it being threaded is that I will be able to remove the model from the stand, if I ever need to.  This was a "fun" challenge as well.  I had to reinforce the join in that location from within the fuselage.  I used epoxy.  That area will take some stress, and especially because of where it is located. It is not centered under the plane.  I couldn't trust the bay doors to hold the weight of the plane so I had to move the mount further back.  The plastic is thicker and stronger there.  I will also have to make sure that the plane is balanced while in its resting position. I will tackle that once I get to positioning it on the stand. 

The next step is to fix a few more sink-marks and do some final touch ups.  Then it's time to mask and for primer coat.

Hey There Clemens! Good to see you're back up and operating. I missed you. Thanks for the positive vibes.

The second round of recovery has been a bit slow. Last week was filled with other obligations and I've been under the weather the past couple of days. But, the real delay came when I became a victim of my impatience and applied the white a little to heavy on areas where I had sanded down to the primer. Thus, some panel lines get filled in and such I'm resanding those areas. I'll get it in some form or another.