Dirk's 1/72 Airfix Fw190D Virgin build [SKGB] ***FINISHED***

[Dirkpitt289]

I started this late last week but have yet to add any photos just yet. This is my first ever build of an Fw190. I'm still all over the map when it comes to the final paint scheme. My first choice is a captured butcherbird in US markings but all the ones I've found none are of the "D" model. Then I found this:



This is a good possability but the photo is a bit small for these weary old eyes (Getting old is a biotch ) I'm having trouble making out the colors, markings and text in the photo. I've even got some history on this bird which makes it even more desirable for me to build.

The next choice would be a Russian captured bird as I ave plenty of red stars to apply.

My last choice which is my first and favorite choice for this aircraft in German markings is one with the red belly with the white stripes.

Photos to follow once I find where my girlfriend put the camera

[Dirkpitt289]

Thanks Bruce, I had a feeling you'd know.

[Dirkpitt289]

This aircraft seems to have very similar colors







Comments?

[Dirkpitt289]

And so it begins,,,

The parts we all know and love


I started by painting the interior with Model Masters RLM 66 (Dark Gray). Since its a small opening, the pilot will be installed and the canopy will be closed so no other details will be added.



Next was the wings, Drilled out ammo injector ports and assembled





The pilot







When I dry fit the hood for the gun ports I was unhappy with the fit but after a little sanding to the underside it fit very well except for this gap just forward of the windscreen

[Dirkpitt289]

Fixing the gap

Using some scrap Evergreen plastic card I went to work filling the gap



All better





I glued the canopy in place and applied some pressure. This seems to have gotten rid of the gaps.



Engine installed





As per the instructions I installed the rear half of the prop spinner but later realized I wanted to wait on this till after the paint was applied so I removed the part from the aircraft.



Next I decided to tackle the external fuel tank





Lastly I painted the canopy

[Dirkpitt289]

I've never been a huge fan of some of the older Airfix kits but I'm really liking this kit a lot. I can see myself getting more of these kits in the future.

[TimJ]

That's coming along quickly Dirk. Looking good.

[Dirkpitt289]

Thanks Tim. Its been primed and I had to redo some filling. Now its almost ready for paint but I'm still tossing about different schemes. I need to make up my mind soon before it gets too late.

[Dirkpitt289]

I think I'm ready for paint but I'm still unsure what paint scheme to do. I need to make up my mind and get it over with. I can always build another one or three....

[Brickie]

... next week ...

[jssel]

You can always refer to Brews Build as he has great links to decal sheets with lots of options. I am amazed on how many different schemes were used as an add-on to the factory schemes.

[Dirkpitt289]

I decided that I'm going to go with the JAG44 Scheme. First things first. Decode the humbrol paint codes. I wonder how much they save in printing costs not spelling out the colors and only using numbers...

[Titan]

Good another JV44, will you be masking or using the kits white stripes?
I ask because I have used the kits stripes after seeing Pugz use them and they are an experience to use but are of good enough density especially in this scale.

Regards
Mark

[Dirkpitt289]

Good another JV44, will you be masking or using the kits white stripes?
I ask because I have used the kits stripes after seeing Pugz use them and they are an experience to use but are of good enough density especially in this scale.

Regards
Mark

I'm going to be using the kit decals just like you and Pugz.

[Dirkpitt289]

Now that the fuselage sides have dried its time to apply the camo. This part is scaring the hell out of me. I tried a few months ago to do a free hand camo on a Typhoon and screwed it up royally, but with the way the marking are on this bird I can't see masking it all so I have no choice but to free hand this.

Here we go.

First up was the RLM 83









I can begin to tell you how happy I am with this first round. Next the RLM 82

Riddle me this my fellow modelers. When I opened my jar of Model Masters RLM 82 it was filled it with this sponge like substance. I was able to pull it out and locate some good paint underneith but what is this? It looks like something pulled from an 88 year old smokers lungs.



Ok moving on from my science experiment I was able to salvage enough of the RLM 82 to continue the camo

Here are the results. My compressor konked out just as I finished the paint scheme. Talk about luck









I am so beyond thrilled over this paint job. Yes i know its not perfect but compared to my last attempt this is unbelievable. Well time to let this dry and then take a look at my compressor and see if it can be salvaged.