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Lightning A04054


Ratch

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Are you building this 1 alongside your TSR.2 build?

 

You'll probably be aware but the only real tricky part on this kit is the fit of the forward fuselage halves, the air intake ducts need quite a bit of plastic trimming off the sides to obtain a perfect fit? Just a heads up but otherwise it's a lovely kit, I have done 3 of them so far

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The F Mk 2/2A was not designed as a replacement for the F Mk 1/1A, but for a different scenario from the outset. The final F Mk 2A standard was first reached on XN726 (c/n 95098). It retained the AI.23 radar, Firestreak armament and nose guns of the F Mk 2, while in every other way it looked like an F Mk 6. It was flown in this form for the first time by J.L. Dell on 28-3-68 and was passed on to No. 19 Squadron on 7-6-68. Of all the Lightning versions, the F Mk 2A was to become the best all-round performer. Its engine was optimised to the aircraft’s air intake, and although some 2,000lb (910kg) heavier than the F Mk 1A it could carry an extra 3,100lb (1405kg) of fuel. It still weighed some 500lb (230kg) lighter than the F Mk 6, and it was claimed to fly up to two hours at high level on internal fuel alone. Both Nos. 19 and 92 Squadrons soldiered on with the F Mk 2A until they were eventually replaced by the Phantom in the early months of 1977. Some F Mk 2/2As were delivered to BAC for its Saudi Arabian contract.

XN793 was flown by Wing Commander J. B. Mitchell, Commanding Officer No. 92 Squadron, R.A.F. Gutersloh, August 1972.

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL761/13303934/24810884/413953851.jpg

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL761/13303934/24810884/413953849.jpg

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL761/13303934/24810884/413953848.jpg

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL761/13303934/24810884/413953847.jpg

http://pic100.picturetrail.com/VOL761/13303934/24810884/413953846.jpg

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Currently in the middle of the F6 kit build and your post has been very informative and helped me avoid some pitfalls

 I decided to use the kit scheme for the late low visibility scheme as I have some Binbrook  prints from the period that I wanted to complement. This meant that a silver lightning will probably be attempted at a later date

Your comment on the amount of stencilling decals required  is even more true for th F6 kit. The white on grey lining took a couple of hours on its own although that was mainly due to being rusty

Photos from the 80's show a great variation in this scheme and demarcation between light and darker grey changed on the same aircraft over a few months. I also believe that many F6 were rotated to use up available airframe life.

I had difficulty with front canopy fit with a slight ridge formed at the front that again is more due to rusty technique. I still have problems with clear parts. Is there any specific adhesive you could recommend that gives a rapid fix and does not frost on contact?

Your build does have the classic look. For colourful squadron schemes the classics were the probably in the F3 era

Nice build and interesting kit as F2a or F6.

 

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@ Brian54

 

You can use Humbrol ÇlearFix which is meant for canopy glazing and doesn't frost and excess can easily be wiped away but on painted areas does leave a shine so Matt surfaces may need a touch up?

 

I currently use Microsol Crystal Clear which is like a white PVA glue but drys clear and excess can easily be wiped clear when applied with a damp cotton bud! 

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Is there any specific adhesive you could recommend that gives a rapid fix and does not frost on contact?

 

Thanks for your comments Brian. I use PVA wood glue. I use it because its cheap, I have a readily available supply and it dries clear without fogging. Its not an instant bond, and as I grow older I find the adage 'more haste, less speed' becomes truer. My builds may seem quick but that is because I now have more time (since retirement) to do my modelling, and I can put things aside to set or dry while I progress with something else.

HTH

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Hi Ratch

Very nice build of a clasic RAF fighter, Pity it's not still flying, even the one in Cape Town seems to be grounded these days since the death of Mike Beachy.b Loved the photos you've posted of the finished model, but I thought thet looked a bit too covered, probably th light you were using, so I've taken the liberty of tweeking then to show more detail. 

 

I'm re-posting them as it might be of interest to other members and yourself. the first is your original. then with auto-equalise added, then a small tweek with the brightness & contrast, all done in photo paint. Personally I think the auto-equalise filter made the biggest difference, and tje brightness filter helps bring out you superb silver finish. Hope you approve.

 

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Remember we do this for fun

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Thanks for the advice. I will be stocking up at B&Q (or similar supplier). The more haste is certainly one to consider. I to have more time since early retirement and that is why I have returned to the fold.

The Lightning F6 is nearing completion  and hopefully I can now fix the canopy.

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