Andy T's 1/48 Tamiya Ilyushin il-2 Sturmovik

[Andy T]

Yes Tony, they do look thinner than tamiya decals I've used before. They are certainly better than the Pibber ones I did a week or so back, almost having a taper at the edge.

[Andy T]

Like the last tamiya bird I built the cockpit slides in after the fuselage has gone together, meaning it's out of harms way while dealing with any joint lines etc.

So after fitting the radiator cooling duct and dummy engine, I cemented the two halves together, working a section at a time for the best possible fit, which is much better than the picture makes it appear!

It will need a bit of sanding but I'd be very surprised if it needed any filler.





The Quinta interior decals went well. After perusing a few reference pictures I've ignored the Tamiya painting instructions and gone with colours I've seen on a few different aircraft.

The surface detail needs removing for most of the decals but I haven't fitted every last one. A bit like photo etch, just because it's on the sheet doesn't mean it's a worthwhile improvement.

The pieces are soaked in water to remove them from the backing sheet (like regular decals) but additional adhesive is recommended so I fixed most of them in place with pva. Because the seat belts curve I allowed them to dry out after their soaking and used CA to fix them for a quicker bond.



Then here's most of it slotted together for a dry test fit before a few touch ups and some weathering

[scottie3158]

Andy looking good mate. If I can offer you a tip, rather tan trying to paint thin bands. Paint some Tamyia or whatever brand you use masking tape then cut the required strip and apply. it gives a nice straight edge.

[Andy T]

Thanks mate, I'll bear that in mind.

The bands on the fuel tank are moulded on but do look rough in that shot I'd agree. That was only their first quick coat and they do look a lot better after a second.

I also have some aluminum and chrome tape for just such occasions.

[The Smythe Meister]

Just caught up with this Andy,
Superb looking cockpit mate,the details really pop out .

[adt70hk]

That's brilliant Andy.

Absolutely brilliant

[Mickc1440]

I've just had a catch up too Andy, that cockpits is the dogs, great work

[Geoffers]

That’s a super looking cockpit Andy, the Quinta decals are a great addition :thumb2:

Geoff.

[Andy T]

Thanks Andy, Andrew, Mick & Geoff :thumb2: I'm glad you like it and yes, the Quinta stuff has impressed me once again.

The cockpit & gunners area received a wash and a bit of chipping to dirty them up a little. Nothing major as it'll be mostly hidden under the canopy but at least I know I've done something:



After sanding the fuselage joints I gave them a quick squirt of Mr Finishing Surfacer to see if further work was needed. I think not :smiling3:





Then a really boring shot of neutral grey on neutral grey plastic lol. The landing gear, bays & doors are at least painted up now ready for a bit of weathering and further assembly. I'm unsure how much of the radiator & oil coolers will be seen but I've started to paint them up also:

[scottie3158]

Andy,
The cockpit looks the nuts mate.

[Andy T]

Thanks Paul. It's ready for slotting in when the time comes.

[Jim R]

That's a great looking kit Andy. Fine job you're making of it. The cockpit, with the 3D decals is looking superb.

[Andy T]

Thank you Jim.

On the subject of the paints I've been waiting for..

I was taking the boss for some routine tests this morning and her windscreen was iced up. I delved into the box we have outside for all of our winter gear to find a scraper and saw a little box. Thanks Evri for dropping it in there with absolutely no notification :rolling: I haven't even had a reply from the vendor yet either.

I've no idea how long they've been in there but the package is dated the 10th. At least they are here at last, and showing the evolution of MRP bottles over the years.

[stona]

That is really coming on, it looks terrific, absolutely love what you've done in the cockpit.

I must get my finger out with my contribution!

[Andy T]

Cheers Steve, the kit & accessories have definitely helped.