Hey, what would I need to do to convert my Revell 1/48 B-26B/G into an early B-26 as was used in the Aleutian campaign in Alaska. What are the main differences in the Revell model and the early B-26s?
Short wings, different tail gunner’s configuration and early cowlings without the big scoops on top are the most visible differences.
Likely had spinners on the props too.
For the spinners, use P-61 spinners and I think they use the same propellers. They did use R-2800 engines. That is what I am going to use for my two 1/72 Monogram Snaptite B-26’s. I am going to do Capt. George Thornbrough’s of the 73rd BS, 40-1408; and Lt. Muri’s “Suzie Q”, 40-1391, of the 22BG at Midway. You will also have to take the dogleg out of the front landing gear doors, as they were straight. The tail fin will have to be cut down, and the fin and wings will need to be rescribed. For a good source for reference photos, go to PrimePortal.com (I hope this is right as it has been stated earlier many times on these pages). They have photos of Kermit Weeks B-26, 40-1464, one of the original Alaska-bound B-26s from “Million-Dollar Valley” in Canada in January, 1942. Another source is the MAPS air museum B-26 which is also from “Million-Dollar Valley”. The Hill AFB Museum is restoring 40-1370 which crashed at Naknek in August, 1942 and recovered in 2000.
Yeah, that’s my plan too…to do Thornbrough’s bird. Looks like I have my work cut out for me, but I never let that stop me before.
Thanks for all the help guys.