Jeff's USAS SE5A

[jssel]

It is here I will attempt the Monogram/Aurora 1/48th SE5A.

As you probably know, Monogram took over many Aurora molds back in the day and dressed them up rather nicely. They removed the fake fabric texture, added or refined surface detail and altered the nose for the different engine version. The only negative I have seen in reviewing what is in the polybag is the decals which are early 80's thick, glossy, gluey things that may be the bane of the build.

At any rate the unit represented is the 25th Aero Squadron.

I got this kit at a show and it appears all there. I also have the Aurora kit so I will have pictures comparing the two as I go along.

[Chris]

Its a nice choice.

[jssel]

So here is what I am looking at. The top is the Aurora issue with better than normal boxart. The model is very well done. The bottom is the bagged Monogram version.



Here is a comparison of the orginal Aurora mould on top and the Monogram re-tool on bottom. Much better to me.




The Monogram instructions and decal sheet. I like the colors and register but the overall thickness and globby glue used will be a true test.
The rigging diagram is pretty nice.



Overall scheme. Positive it would be RFC colors with the USAS markings more then likely overpainted. There are good references on the internet for this aircraft and pilot.



So, time to press on.

[VickersVandal]

I have to say, while the removal of the fabric effect is good, I think the subtle rib effect on the Aurora is a lot better.

Good scheme. Look forward to the finished product.

[Chris]

Honestly the Aurora wing looks better.

[K5083]

Nice paint scheme. I am flying a micro RC S.E.5a some mornings in exactly these markings. Looks nice in the air, I can tell you.

I believe Aurora reworked this kit at least once before it went to Monogram. Yours is a very late Aurora box, so late that I can still recall buying them new in the late 1970s. The ORIGINAL original Aurora had molded-in markings.

August

[jssel]

You are correct August. My Aurora boxing is late 70's. Whoever built the kit did a very nice job on it.

So..........most of my time has been spent preparing for the build. Opening some areas and drilling the holes forthe rigging. Monogram had a knack of having raised "knock out tab" rings on the fuselage seams. Once filed down, the fit is quite good.

Here is a photo comparing the old and new fuselages. You will notice the difference in the "Hisso" engine and the Viper engine by looking at the nose area.



I can't quite tell from photographs and my In Action book if there was a blanking sheet behind the fuselage step or not. Anyone know?



Some rigging holes in the wings. A few more to go yet.



A bit of an overview.

[jssel]

Feels like I am making good progress on this kit. Holes are all drilled for the basic rigging and much of the assembly is done.



Overall fit is OK but not terrific. Careful work on the edges of each piece cures alot of ills. I did practically nothing to the interior. You know, once in the showcase.................



Fiddling around with paint now.

[TimJ]

Coming along well.

[Clashcityrocker]

Looking good. Nice propeller.

Nigel

[TobyC]

Progressing very nicely.

[jssel]

Just a tiny update for right now. Plan on some paint work this evening.

But here is the airscrew. Base coat was Testors 1167 Tan streaked with Tamiya Red Brown topped off with Tamiya Clear Yellow. Seems to match the photos I have found. The hub is Testors Steel. Hope you like it.

[Clashcityrocker]

Yes I do. Looks most authentic.

Nigel

[VickersVandal]

Agreed. That prop looks great!

[Jagewa]

Big Props to you Jeff!