I recently picked up this kit on ebay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170465581239&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT
I had built this kit once before, but tossed it since I hadn’t painted it with the proper ADC Gray color. The decal sheet was actually very nice, but there is one very big problem. Do you see that checkered pattern on the tail and engine intakes? That is actually supposed to be a red and white checkered pattern, not black and white. Does anyone know of any technique I can use to somehow fix this???[*-)]
By the way, this kit is a very nice addition to your collection since it’s the only short-tail F-102 out there. There is a more common earlier boxing, but it doesn’t have the same 327th FIS boss bird decals that this one has. Also, it’s not quite 1/72 scale…I often see it described as 1/78 scale. It also does not come with a pitot tube, but that is easily fixed.
Try it again Mikey…worked for me.
I don’t think there’s any way to correct the decal, but if you’re willing to take the time, it’s not that hard of a problem to fix.
First, basecoat the areas with white (preferably in enamel). Next use a ruler (or calipers) to measure the size of the squares. Cut out as many squares, from masking tape, as you can. You’ll probably want to cut more than you actually need. Now, use the ruler and a pencil (using a light touch) and draw a grid to make sure your lines stay good and straight. Now use the masks to mask off the boxes that you want to remain white. Now spray a coat of Future to seal the edges of the tape to prevent bleed-under. Once that has cured for 24 hours, spray a coat of red (preferably acrylic). Remember that it’s better to spray a few light coats than one heavy. Once your happy with the coverage of the red, remove the masks. After everything has had a chance to cure, spray down another coat of Future and voila, you’re done.
-Fred
Simple answer…look for aftermarket decals. Or scrounge up the set include with Tamiya’s Follow-Me jeep for red & white checkers
Well, aftermarket decals are completely out. There’s not too many decals out there for a 1/78 short-tail F-102. I’m guessing that I’ll just keep the checkers black. The squares are very small, so masking and painting each one red might be out of my patience realm. HMMMM…maybe I’ll contact Mill Creek Consultants (Wolfpak Decals) and see if they would consider releasing these markings in the future. Although this kit is long OOP, it is still a very common find at shows and on ebay.