Starting the 1/48 Accurate Miniatures SB2U-2 Vindicator and will be using the Eduard photo etch detail set. The scheme will be the Centaur Vampires of VS-72 assigned to the USS Wasp (CV-7) that operated in the Atlantic Ocean during WWII. The detailing of the cockpit in this kit is great and the photo etch details add a little more depth. The pilots section is done. Working on the rear cockpit now.
More build photos at https://davidsscalemodels.com/build-log/1-48-sb2u-2-vindicator/
WOW is the first word I thought of when viewing your pics. Your detailing is so clear and crisp. Great job,looking forward to more.
Wow, that looks nice [:)]
Nice job so far!
I built that one a couple of years ago. The kit includes a mask set for the greenhouse canopy that I found did not even pretend to fit properly.
Looking great so far. Looking forward to the rest of the build
Mine didn’t either. Wasn’t even close
I don’t use precut masks. It seems to be a 50/50 fit depending on the kit. I use kapton tape to mask the canopies. The tape works well and trims easily.
Boy, that is looking great! I have that kit in my stash. Your pics are stimulating me to get it on the bench. Those AM kits are great!
David. How bad are the instructions? Loved the kit but the instructions were hideous
The instructions are a little weird but not bad. Not a fan of how they did the painting instructions. Only did the first two steps. We’ll see how the rest goes.
Painting instructions are the biggest failing I see in almost all model aircraft instructions. I believe most kit mfgs figure that the majority of builders never paint their models, or else those who do paint them with brushes.
One of the big problems I see with novice builders is that they follow instructions for painting cockpit and engine, then go ahead and build and install all the rest, to leave painting till the last step. Then, they try to paint exterior of the model as last step. Then they are faced with the task of masking wheel wells, fragile landing gear and gear doors, and on some planes, exposed radial engines. In my opinion, gears and gear doors should be last pieces to by applied, along with antenna.
Not only is painting a problem, but in some kits, landing gears are captured during the closing of the fuselage. Big problem! Landing gear mounting should always be possible as a nearly last step.
What is this thing “instructions” you speak about? Is that the sheet of paper with the funny pictures and strange writings on it in the box? I thought that was to protect the bench top when I spill glue and paint.
If all else fails, read the instructions lol [bnghead]
The cockpit on the 1/48 SB2U-2 Vindicator is now complete and the fuselage is together. The cockpit was a little tight getting everything to fit but it is together. Now working on detailing the engine. Using 30 AWG wire, I am making the pushrods for the cylinders.
Build log at: https://davidsscalemodels.com/build-log/1-48-sb2u-2-vindicator/
Weekly update on the Accurate Miniatures 1/48 SB2U-2 Vindicator. The engine has been detailed and painted. Next it was installed and the cowling was completed. The cowl consisted of 4 separate pieces and the fit was very good. Just juggling 4 pieces was a little difficult to get the alignment correct. The landing gear was detailed, painted, and mounted. Now working on the bombs and mounts.
All build photos at https://davidsscalemodels.com/build-log/1-48-sb2u-2-vindicator/
Looking good. Very nice engine
Looks good! You’re certainly paying attention to some relevant details and I’ll enjoy dropping by to watch your progress.
Makes me want to get out my AM SBD-5 but it’s a bit further back in the queue just now. I’ve really enjoyed building Accurate Miniatures kits so far. Hopefully my remaining F3F and RAF MK-IA Accurate Miniature kits will be as much fun.
Fantastic attention to detail especialy the cockpit and engine. Looking forward to more.
Your friend, Toshi
Work continues on the Accurate Miniatures 1/48 SB2U-2 Vindicator, the gun and bombs have been detailed. I painted the base coat on the aircraft. This is kind of a new area as I am trying out Vallejo paints for the first time. I usually use Model Master and Tamiya paints for many years. With Model Master now owned by Krylon, they are cutting back of many of the military colors. The Vallejo paints work very well and gives you a nice even coat.
Build log with all photos at https://davidsscalemodels.com/build-log/1-48-sb2u-2-vindicator/
Looking very good overall. The MG and bombs are very well done indeed!