P51D Wing Lacquer Paint Color?

Modeling Subjects Aircraft
1

Does anyone know of good paint color (or mix) to match the Silver Lacquer paint that P51 wings were painted? I know this can be tricky one to get “right”.

2

I used Floquil Old Silver unfortunately discontinued but any silver paint will generally do since the wings will have a different finish as compared to the fuselage and flaps that were nmf.

3

Alclad Aluminum…

4

Joe, I’ll give it a try! Thanks!

5

Testors’ Metalizer Aluminum Plate using a rattle can. After it is dry I do not buff it. I just paint it with Testors Metalizer Sealer.

I like Testors Metalizer because there is no priming or precolor involved. You just spray it directly in the bare plastic. IMPORTANT, do not touch the dried paint until you seal it with Testors Metalizer Sealer.

6

I use Alclad Duraluminum

7

This is a photo of a real Mustang’s wing. It is important that the painted area of the wing look like aluminum paint, not a NMF. Compare the painted area to the NMF of the flap and the fuselage.

8

Johnny - that’s the look I’m going for. I’ll take a look the testors paint. Thank you!

9

The Metalizer paints are real thin. They won’t cover scratches. If you need to prime the plastic, you will need to sand the primer until it is real smooth. Otherwise the texture of the primer will show through the Metalizer paint. Use multiple layers of the Metalizer paint instead of one thick coat because it may run. Remember, do not buff the Metalizer paint. Just seal it with Testors’ Metalizer Sealer.

I used the Metalizer paint on my Saber Jet’s wings.

10

Hah! I stand corrected, close to 30 years late!

At that time, I built a Mustang finished with various Model Master metallizers with their own sealant. The wings became a greyish color after the sealant coat, much like this photo. Remember thinking to myself, What a disaster! Was aiming for a painted aluminum color. Didn’t think it looked right and didn’t have the internet as a resource then.

Well, whaddya know? It was close to the right look after all! (hit self on head)

11

That is a great looking Mustang! What did you use for the bare metal panels?

Joe