1':12" Scale Scratchbuilt Volmer

by Dave Fletcher, IPMS/Canada #390

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I took a break from building 1:48th scale models and rebuilt a 1976-vintage Volmer VJ-22 Sportsman in 1':12" scale (ie., 100cm = 1m).  The aircraft was tired and I wasn't happy with the original wiring or the fuel system plumbing.  I also wanted a good look inside, so I stripped of the fabric and some of the plywood skin before recovering it.  A number of improvements were incorporated and substantial lightening took place; new Lexan was used for the windshield (see - plastic!).  The aircraft was painted with Porch & Floor Urethane and the decals were cut from blank stock (black for the letters and red for the flag).  A Canadian Forces command pennant was cut from stock and added to the right side of the cockpit (I used to command CFS Holberg) and a wing commander's pennant was similarly 'scratch-built' and added to the left.  Reflown with the original Lycoming O-235, the aircraft has now been re-engined with a Lycoming O-290.  Weathering is being applied by Mother Nature.  The second shot shows the aircraft before the installation of the tip floats.  Now, can I get back to my unbuilt stash of plastic kits?
Dave 

Photos and text © by Dave Fletcher