Jeff's Rafale' rapture

[jssel]

Here is a couple of shots to point out what my above post is about.

As you can see that no matter how I fashioned the fit, the profile was just wrong. So about ten minutes with file and scalpel blade and it was ready for putty.



Under wing stores racks in place.



I found the fit of the intakes strange as everything else is slotting in nicely.

[MerlinJones]

I found the fit of the intakes strange as everything else is slotting in nicely.

They weren't 'handed', were they?

[jssel]

Missed Draken's question a couple back. The belts are tape with the tips "super glued" to the seat. A little paint to match the photos and done. I am amazed by the lack of belting on this seat when other modern types the pilot shows up the day before the flight to start belting in.

@Merlin. I have searched the web looking at walk arounds and they seem to show a smooth line from intake to belly of the fuselage. Of course there is always that one picture. And no, they can only fit one way. My first thought was "Oh, gee, Jeff, you have them upside down, backward, front to back."

At any rate, the viewer can see the issue and a simple remedy.

[jssel]

The Rafale' has sprouted legs.



The stance appears good.



Afterburner cans before the wash. Digital macro sure shows the "goobers."

[malepo]

looks like a not too bad kit - and most Rafale kits do have fit issues esp. with the intakes - looks good so far

[Sissel]

Great progress, Jeff.
Afterburners look nice.

Sissel

[Dirkpitt289]

Great work Jeff. The bottom of that aircraft looks like it requires a lot of attention...

[TimJ]

Looking good Jeff.

[Boldman]

I remember having a huge amount of problems getting the intakes to fit on my Rafale M, a lot of filling and sanding!

[jssel]

Yeah, my Tiger is headed for the Paint Shop for the application of a lot of gray (grey).

Pics soonest.

[Softscience]

Is the brown on the can interiors a ceramic coating?

[jssel]

That is right.

[jssel]

I have been rather lax posting here. The Rafale' is painted and glossed and I will try to have photos up tonight. Underwing stores are ready for painting. I am keeping it simple with air to air missles and fuel tanks.

I think I am on a track to finish on time.

[Dirkpitt289]

That's great Jeff. I look forward to the pictures. I've been rather lax on mine. Just too much going on but I hope to make some progress tonight.

[jssel]

Finally, a couple of shots. Ready to start decaling.





I have used HobbyBoss decals before and hope there will be few problems encountered.