Tamiya 1:32 Scale Vought F4U-1 Corsair Build

The dry fit told me that I was very close, next to near perfect.

In this build I’ve attempted to take all my lessons and advice from forum members and to the best of my abilities tried to apply it to the Corsair build. One example was to dry fit the cockpit to the fueselage, I’ve seen this done yet it only just clicked in my mind to execute this task.

This time around, I will attempt to place a figure of the pilot seated in the Corsair, I’ve never done a really nice presentation of a figure. I was also shocked as the pilot needed to be assembled, a first for me. I will do my best in preparing the pilot to look presentable in the Corsair build. One idea I had was to go after a aftermarket decal set of Greg “Pappy” Boyington’s Lulubelle/Lucybelle. I’ll be searching for this via eBay.

I forgot to add that this kit has a see through cowling. Per Tamiyas request, I followed their recommendation. Sand all clear parts then spray with a nice coat of clear glossy enamel spray.

Sand what?? No way! This was absurd to me, destroy such a nice reproduction of a perfectly fine clear parts? Oh well, not only were they correct but, I think I’ll continue to utilize this step in all my builds from this point on.

Looking good Toshi, one of my favorite planes.

Mike

Nice work on the 'pit! Looks great so far!

To Buckeye,

Thank you! In regards to what attracts me to a Corsair is its bent wings. The only other aircraft that was designed as such is the “Stuka” dive bomber. From what I’ve read, the Stuka also has a unique sound while diving due to its bent wing shape. Thank you for the read and reply.

Toshi

To fly-n-hi,

After building the P-51D’s cockpit that’s adjacent to the engine, it feels strange to build the Corsair in what looks like a cage. Everything in the cockpit is so loaded, I don’t think even a pilot can get himself into the seat. LOL! Thank you for the read and reply.

Looks good, Toshi. Your 'pits come out pretty nicely. Boyington isn’t known for flying this particular model. He flew -1A’s which among other things have a bubble canopy.

Gull wings are not uncommon. Your big Mariner has one. But inverted gull wings are less so, probably only half a dozen or so such designs produced.

The Stuka often had a wind driven siren. I doubt the wing contributed much noise. It’s a very aerodynamic detail of the Corsair, better wing to fuselage transition.

To GMorrison,

You sir, have a wealth of knowledge! I hope someday in that I can have at the very least, 50% of your knowledge. Thank you for the read and right.

Ok, this is the Corsair pilot still in the spruce, I’ll start with this today. Hopefully I can utilize the pilot for the F4U-1 Corsair.

If anyone has a tip on how to paint figures, please let me know as I’m only a beginner modeler. Thank you in advance.

Toshi

I posted this in your P-51 thread. I guess you missed it.

"As a beginner to figure painting I would concentrate on cleaning up the seams and good clean blocking.

Blocking is the term for getting your main colors painted on. I.E. ; face, gloves, pants, boots, etc.

Get that much done and you’re ready for the next step which is easy. Washes.

Give us all some progress pics and we can guide you clearly from that point. Just remember that preparation before painting applies to figures as much as it does to models. :slight_smile:

You’ll do great."

I hope this helps you get started my friend.

Tips from a master.

I’d only add, less is more. Alot of times in architectural models (usually) we paint the figures grey. Not a good idea here, but if you paint the khaki flight suit, the yellow mae west and the boots, helmet and face good flat colors with clean demarcations, you are off to the races. Dont worry about lots of fine brushwork detail just yet.

Don’t use that horrid Testors flesh. Look at yourself in the mirror. You’re brown, right, not pink. Paint his face and hands a color like that.

Everything’s looking good. Interested to see how your pilot turns out. I’ve yet to venture into the realm of figure painting. But, I’m sure it will only be a matter of time.

Toshi, just a question - I noticed you installed the PE harness, but it looks like your figure has a harness molded on. If that’s the case, I would recommend taking the PE harness out, since it will be in the way of him sitting in the cockpit.

-BD-

To GMorrison,

I will discipline my mind; “Less is more”. Thank you GMorrison!

Toshi

To JOE RIX,

I’ve done figures in the past but never at a level like this. I hope it turns out ok.

Toshi