I’m thinking of building this kit…had it stashed away for many years. I’ve found a few reviews of it, but I’m wondering about the quality of the kit. Has anyone built this kit lately? How’s it come together? Any major fit or seam issues? While I know it wont be a “Tamiya” quality kit, I don’t want to spend a lot of time filling and sanding.
I’m also wondering if there are any aftermarket kits for this model. I’ve searched a little bit (Great Models), but haven’t really found anything yet. Any comments would be appreciated.
The kit isn’t too bad. The only fit problems I had with mine was the wings joining to the fuselage. It also could have been because I used the seemless intakes with mine.
It isn’t up to the Tamigawa standards. There is no cockpit sidewall, forward or aft bulkhead detailing at all. It has no intake trunks so build intake covers for it. If you aren’t concerned with accuracy it should be a simple build. If you want accuracy there are a lot of things that will need correcting. Whenever it tells you to use flat white for the gear wells, doors, gear, intakes, etc, use gloss white. That is one error in the instructions.
The only aftermarket items that will work with the kit is the Verlinden PE set. There are some engine exhaust made for this kit. The Avionix cockpit is for the Tamiya kit and will not work at all with the RM kit. All other AM parts for the Tamiya kit will also not work with the RM kit.
Thanks for the info. FSM has a nice build article in their October 2001 issue that addresses some of the accuracy issues. I may order the Verlinden kit too…thanks again.
LEGENDS produces a resin cockpit set designed for this kit. It includes tub, sidewalls, seats, and instrument panels/shroud. It also includes photo etched canopy/mirror details. It takes a little bit of work to place it where it belongs but looks great when finished.
The latest issues of this kit include details to construct a German F-4F. Eduard produces an internal and external photetched detail set designed for the F-4F kit. Some of my favorite parts on these sets are updates for the exhaust cans.
I have built the Revell/Monogram and Tamiya kits multiple times and have always enjoyed the results. A website called Large Scale Planes has some helpful build reviews. Enjoy your build!!!