P-51D Mustang

Not too long ago I had picked up the Tamiya 1/32 P-51D kit. Anyone who builds models know this kit is just about the best kit that there is for modeling wartime and or post time aircraft in any scale. While doing a bit of research I came across a image of a brand new P-51D off the assembly line. No markings other than national insignia and tail serial number. Besides, decals and I just don't get along together.

Instructions first call for starting with the engine, and what a engine it is. It's own little model in its own rights. Holes in various sizes are drilled in parts all over the engine in preparation for the wiring and plumbing. On the rights side of the engine I added lead wire to simulate the coolant and oil return lines. I'm not entirely sure if they go were there supposed to go, but they look nice. I had and still have a hell of a time getting superglue to stick to lead wires. I might need to change brands or look to alternative glues for attaching fine wire. I left the top of the air covers off for ease of painting and drilled holes for the priming and ignition system. I also scratched a few ignition and exhaust harness for added detail as well. A good portion of the engine will be hidden by engine mount and cowlings. I plan on displaying with the cowls off and on.

The firewall and engine oil tank was improved by adding a few bits n' pieces. A oil dipstick and cap was added alongside the return pipe (to be added later) and some miscellaneous piping.

My attention then turned to the cockpit. I decided to purchase the BarracudaCals Mustang Cockpit Upgrade set along with the Mustang Cockpit Stencils and Placards decal set. Both very good quality and price. I found that the SCR-522-A radio box wire harness provided is a bit too thick and modified it for use behind the armored seat back-plate, and added a new lead wire lines to the forward of the box. Holes were drilled on the rear battery for some wire to be added later as well. Both a welcome addition to my Mustangs' cockpit.

With that resin cockpit upgrade set from BarracudaCals, an accurate K-14 Gun sight with its special mounting bracket was added to the glare shield. I'll cut a sheet of clear plastic for the glass. I had wanted to use the throttle that came with the set but unfortunately my thick fingers and a no. 11 knife did not agree. So I used the kit throttle witch is good and added mixture and RPM levers from stock PE and rod styrene.

For the seat, Tamiya gives two options. I chose the late version with side rails. I'll be adding a set of HGW fabric seat belts later on. I'm going to add a seat liferaft, as my refrences to are limited.

Not much was added to the sidewalls, however I did decide to add a bit of wiring to the right for the boxes in such to made them look busy. Not 100% correct but nice to look at. I decided to not have a figure inside so I needed a flexible oxygen hose. Lead wire wrapped with lead wire and a few bits of styrene rod. All will be attached separately for ease of handling.

Next will be to add some primer to these parts and start painting the engine, accessories and wood floor.