Here is my build of
Hasegawa's beautiful Ar 234B-2 kit. I used Verlinden and Eduard detail sets, as
well as adding wiring and hydraulic lines to the cockpit and wheel wells. The
nose glazing and opened entry hatch are from Squadron's vac canopy for this kit.
The markings are from Eagle Strike, and include the prominent rivets on the
canopy framing. This was a blessing, as I would never have been able to paint
them so well !
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I painted and
detailed the cockpit, landing gear, wheel wells, and RATO (rocket assisted take
off) units using color photos of the National Air and Space Museum's Ar 234. It
is the only example of this remarkable aircraft left in the world. To replicate
the sandy brown color of the wheel wells, I used Model Master RAF Middlestone.
It is a close match for this color.
I used the resin
bomb and sled from the Verlinden set, as well as the bombsight and flaps.
Verlinden also included a resin Jumo 004 engine with photoetched access doors,
but I elected not to use it. I couldn't imagine an Ar 234 with the RATO units
attached, but the engine panels open.
I used nearly all of
the items from the Eduard photoetched set, but replaced some of the cables with
fine wire and solder. Their belts and harnesses are particularly well done. I
replaced the kit seat with a white metal one with plastic cushions from a
Trimaster Me 262 kit. The arm rests are from the Hasegawa kit.
I usually "eyeball" the
masks for Luftwaffe splinter schemes, but this one was a little too complex to
go that route. Instead, I scanned the markings diagram and enlarged it to kit
scale in Photoshop. Once printed, it served as templates for drafting tape
masks. Model Master enamels were used for the RLM 81 and 82 over 76.
The model was then glosscoated
with Future, and the decals were applied. They were then sealed with more
Future, and the enamel washes were applied. Once the excess was removed, I
covered the model with Testor's Dullcote. This gave some "teeth" to
the surface so that I could apply the white camo freehand. I didn't want to take
the chance of the white paint running.
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The RATO units were given a few
shades of Alcad, then washed with a dark gray. Dullcote was sprayed lightly to
give a slightly worn appearance.
I painted the bomb sled with a
mixture of Model Master Wood, Dark Earth, and Leather. Different color washes
were applied for the grain effect, and drybrushing with Wood gave it a worn
appearance. It is a beautifully cast single piece of resin from the Verlinden
set.
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Squadron's vac canopy is
wonderfully clear, but difficult to cut, trim, and fit. Care must be used, as
there is no spare. The kit's injected nose piece has the only attachment point
for the instrument panel. Gluing mine by the wires to the cockpit and having it
align with the nose framing was a difficult task.
This is my most involved project
to date, and it is a very special build to me. I hope you like it also.
Thank you for letting me share
this kit with you !
Bill
Visit my website to see other
models of mine, I also build models on commission. http://www.pix.prettyneatinc.com/
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