Cockpit detailing and painting
As I said at the head of this build, I don’t plan on adding a great deal of extra detail. The main need is a set harness and I had an Eduard pre-painted set for the Ju87 in the box and so have used that here. The only other details I’ve added are the ’T’-shaped structure on the rear decking from fuse wire, a red handle on the right side (canopy release I think) and a new clear reflector gunsight from clear acetate.
Speaking of the gunsight moulded into the kit instrument shroud, it does sit too far forward and had I spotted this earlier I would have created the simple framework on which the real thing sits in front and slightly to the right of the front windscreen. Here are a couple of pics to show what I mean…
Mr Paint RLM 66 (MRP 59) Grey is good for the cockpit.
Primer
I’ve taken to priming my models these days – definitely find it helps the acrylic paint adhere better and of course shows up any flaws in your prep. Mr Paint Fine Surface Primer is excellent and works well of course with their own paints that are to follow for the main camo colours.
What scheme?
I like the different options included in the kit and that featuring a JG.54 machine just has to be done – especially with those blue/white rear fuselage checks and silver (more likely natural metal?) tips to the engine nacelles.
Undersides
RLM 76 (MRP 66) spays beautifully straight from the bottle, as do all the paints in this range and they go a long way and are my default paints to use these days – love them!
Time to fit the front windscreen
The canopy parts do fit well and you have the option to display your model with the centre section hinged open – not sure which way i’ll go with this but I’ll probably close the canopy to preserve the look of the model – the ‘262 looks just great with the canopy down.
In any event, the front screen needs to go on now as it includes a small section of the forward upper fuselage – this is great as it ensures there is no join around the front screen with the fuselage. It took a little fettling to get it to sit nicely in the recess – fixing it in place with Tamiya Quick setting Extra Thin Cement.
…then it is just a matter of adding another small amount of cyano/talc mix and leave to set overnight. The area is quickly sanded and buffed and you can move on. Hope you’re enjoying the build so far – I am :)
