Stage 4 – Final Assembly – The end of the tunnel was now in sight…
I completed the undercarriage/wheels and doors and fixed them in final position.
The canopies were then fixed in the open position.Last but not least, the pitot probe. Apart from the decal sheet, this was the only ‘aftermarket’ item I used.
Plastic pitots and I don’t seem to have a lasting relationship so I chose the Master replacement item. This is a three-piece work of art in itself and still needs a lot of respect in handling.
Summary…
This kit isn’t a cheap purchase but I do believe it represents good value for money. I’ve basically built it OOB but there’s excellent scope for the super-detailers.
The kit comes with the options of a desk display stand and two superbly-detailed engines which can displayed alongside the aircraft if so desired.
My liking of the aircraft itself and also of the kit grew immensely during this build experience and I highly recommend it as a result. It’s big. It’s bold. It’s beautiful.
My Best Regards,
Paul A.
Gallery Images
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.