Stage 2 – Construction…
As always, this started with the cockpit areas. I used the kit items and found them more than adequate with their level of detail and quality. I hasten to add that since I built this model there are several aftermarket items now available should the modeller so wish to further invest but even with the canopies in the open positions, precious little can be seen.
The kit instructions would have the completed undercarriage fitted at a very early stage but that would leave them very prone to damage during the handling processes.
I temporarily fitted the mounting section for the nose wheel leg in a folded position in the bay to prevent damage. A similar option was taken with the main undercarriage legs. I slightly enlarged the pivot holes on the bay sides so the legs could be twisted into position at the final assembly stage.They were also temporarily fixed in a folded position to avoid possible damage.
The overall fit of the main components is straightforward and without major issues. Make sure you have a good stock of adhesive and tape!
As a precaution, I added braces from plasticard to the joining surfaces of the engine nacelles to ensure a stronger and more precise fit. The tops of those are very visible on the completed model and need great care for that reason.
On my kit, the tips of the intake cones were slightly misshaped and not pointed.
A little ‘Cyano/Talc’ mix and careful sanding soon rectified that.
The fit of the nacelle/outer wing sections to the main fuselage was without issue with only a fine line of Perfect Plastic Putty being required to eradicate a slight gap.
At this point I fitted the jet-pipes followed by the rudder/fin sections (the kit has no provision for them to fitted offset).
Tim Haynes says
Fabulous work Paul. Its great to see your SR-71 and how you went about it. I have taken note of the key point you have identified for when I eventually unbox mine. The use of the brown shading in particular give the finished model the same look as the one I have seen at Duxford (especially from the side). Bravo…
Paul Ainsworth says
Hello and thank you so much,Tim.I’m pleased you like it.
This was my first ‘serious’ attempt at creating such a finish and thought the shading looked somewhat ‘snake-like’ before the blending layers were added.
I hope you enjoy building this kit as much as I did.
I know you’ll do a superb job.
I must also say a very big ‘Thank You’ to Geoff and Francis for their invaluable help in preparing this build feature.Again,this is a first for me and I now look forward to using this format for some future projects.😉👍
All The Best,
Paul.