If I had to guess about the canopy...I'd say its in multiple parts because the rear seat has a "bubble" to it. So in order to get the part out of the mold cleanly (and easily) they made them separate and gave you something extra to build. But...great job getting it done and looking good. 👍
There is a different version of the sides of the canopy supplied (maybe for the prototype), also means ey don't have to have a slide fitting on the mound that adds considerable costs.
Nice build, looks a lovely kit when finished given the slightly mismatched parts. But that's the challenge that makes modeling so interesting. Can i also say it was nice to see a slighty longer build video.
Very nice Gary it was a pleasure watching you build that, lovely engine detail shame you covered it up but your aircraft your the captain, l remember seeing a Chipmunk in the colours of Number 2 Flying Training School at an air display at North Weald airfield in Essex in the 90s and in the hands of a good pilot the aerobatics was something to see it's a 👍from me
Nicely done, Gary and good to see a scheme not usually associated with a Chipmunk. It's usually masking contortions for the more familiar, red, white and grey finish or the easy way out with an all over mono tone scheme. Nice to see you've ensured that the undercart struts and wheels are perpendicular to the ground and not the dihedral, too. I've seen so many well completed models ruined by 'splayed' undercarriage. Ugh!😖
Sad they didn't include an AEF colour scheme. As you said, for so many their first experience of flight was as a young ATC cadet strapped into the back, barely able to see over the sides. I had my first ever flight in one at Hamble and subsequent flights at Coningsby and St Athan while on annual camp. Missed opportunity by Airfix.
I guess they may do it in a second release, but the first one should have targeted all of us who have fond memories of the Chippie form AEF flying, for lots of people this was their first experience of flight as package holidays were still a new thing.
I built mine at the weekend and didn't have any issues with the wings or any gaps. The cowls fitted no probs. Couid there be more than one mold? Reading some of the comments on here is like I've built a different kit. 🤷🏻♂️
Thanks Gary, very helpful tutorial. There is a chap here in Yorkton that does aerial crop spraying and uses a Chipmunk to train pilots in the art of crop spraying. He's got it painted grey with Invasion Strips, rather unique. I'll send you some pictures on Facebook.
Awesome build and finish. A small note is that that part you didn't glue onto the jig is part of the canopy frame. (I checked the pilots notes I have in the collection) I love the detail you put into this. A beautiful job.
Wowsers. I'm just about ready for priming mine. I don't know what all the fuss about the cowling is; mine's built into a good representation of it despite my crappy eyesight and fat fingers. I'm going to to the A scheme as that's what I remember seeing as a kid.
Thanks for pointing out the flaws. I must admit I’ve been very disappointed with Airfix kits as most recent ones have been real labours of love and not that enjoyable. If only there was an Allied plane in 1:72 or 1:48 that’s a dream to put together!
Very good how to video. My first air experience flight was in a Chipmunk at RAF Valley. Definitely going to get this kit! Shame about the issues hi-lighted though. I would have expected these to have been picked up, on a preproduction prototype and rectified by Airfix. As you say, can be worked around.
Cheers Gav, I think I'm happier with it too. I've been looking at the ICM suggested scheme for their Beaufort and the brown they have is really dark. Might paint something up quickly to compare. All the best marra!
“Irksome “ Gary?! I feel you are being generous mate some fit n finish was appalling! However you coped well and delivered a well presented plane however it must be red for me. Bob England
Happy memories flying one of those with 1476 Squadron ATC. Just got one on Prime Day. Just a quick observation Gary, you did take the mask off the landing light I hope? Keep up the good work! 👍
Normally I'd use AK Crystal magic, it's a good clear PVA type glue. On this one, if you've got the fit just right, hen you can use a tiny amount of extra thin cement and touch it to one end of the join and let capillary action take it through. If it's all set up right, you'll see the line of glue going into the joint. But the parts have to be really well fitting. Crystal Magic does a great job of filling any tiny gaps that might be there.
So what was it for then? Presumably some sort of directional stability or yaw authority. Was it to do with changing the prop, maybe that altered the wash characteristics? I can guarantee that, whether intended or not, when recovering from a stable upright neutral spin, a bigger bootful of opposite rudder will counteract the yaw quicker.
Great build, love watching your stuff. Aaaaaand, have a guess who forgot to remove the mask on the landing gear light? True to your word. Cheers from Australia!
