Since it really is my birthday today, I played hookie and decided to spend some time at my bench. Because I am making good progress on my AH-1G, I decided I'd start on my A-10 and share progress on both projects!
First, the A-10. I haven't exactly finalized what markings I want to use, but I know that I want it to be a FSD or very early production airframe. For that reason, I had to make a few mods.
In the office, I had to carve out the ACES seat bottom that was molded to the tub and box in the gaping hole. The seat will be replaced with an ESCAPAC seat. I don't think it's the exact version the early A-10 used, but it's not an ACES seat and therefore a little more accurate.
I also had to remove the chaff dispensers from under the wing and wheel sponsons.
In hindsight, I probably could have left the fairings and filled in the dispensers instead of removing it all completely. Oh well. I can live with it.
I also had to remove some sensors from the nose and tail.
A few swipes with my sanding sticks made the job easy enough.
When I opened the box, I was surprised to see Sierra Hotel's resin engine inlet/fan and closed deceleron set.
I decided to go ahead and chop up the nacelle assembly in prep for the resin intake lips.
I also sprayed some paint on the engine parts in prep for assembly.
Here's what the new fans and inlets look like dry-fitted together.
Pretty slick, eh? Well, maybe except for the giant thumb.
OK, so how about the Cobra? I've been in contact with a gentleman on another forum that flew Hueys in Vietnam, and he shared some great Cobra pictures. I decided to build mine representing one of the airframes from his photos.
I got the weapons assembled and painted. They just need to touch-up, weathering, and final assembly.
Considering I had never used PE before, I think the M-158 pods turned out alright. Good enough for my 3-footer skills.
I also got some color on the airframe. Some unit markings on the elevators, boom, and "surfboard."
It should be pretty smooth sailing with the Cobra going forward.
Well, that's where things are at with my two builds. Stay tuned for more, and I promise I'll have less Ernie and more BRRRT! going forward. Well, after today, anyway.
Comments, questions and criticisms are always welcome. Thanks for stopping by and keep up the great work everyone!
Cheers,
-O