I
only have a few float planes, so I picked up this older Hasegawa kit
and to give it a go. Despite some fit problems, it built up quite well.
You can also build the wheeled version, with several choices of markings.
If I come across another one, there'll be another build. Once again,
a
complex rigging project, using 2lb fishing line (.005") and brass rod
for the float bracing. There are a few pieces of E string used for the
rear mooring bar, foot pegs on the float struts, etc.
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I
highlighted the office with an instrument panel (decal supplied
but no part) joystick, and what I hope is a properly positioned replacement
pilot. Rudder and elevator were repositioned. I left the ailerons and flaps in
neutral, not wanting to risk breakage. I scribed in the trim tabs, and added the
actuator rods. The antenna wire is 2lb line as well, with ca glue insulators.
Each float has 60 skeet shot pellets in the front end.
I didn't do much
weathering on this build. Most of the reference photos I could find showed a
fairly clean machine, so I just varied the dull coating here and there. The
amount of handling required to do the bracing and rigging probably did enough
weathering anyway, so I'll leave as is.
Phillip Steele
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images below to see larger images
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