The twin ejection seats are painted up, dry-brushed and set aside for their harness and extra details later. They’ll be added to the model right at the end of the build to avoid damaging them on the way.
The cockpit tub is next for some detail painting and the video shows how I brought out the side panels and then the knobs and switches just have tiny blobs of red, white and yellow paint as appropriate. I use Citadel paints for these applied with the point of a cocktail stick.
VIDEO DEMO
The design of the tub and upper sills/decking part is genius and all works very well – just be sure to follow the instructions and line everything up carefully. The fuselage halves are then joined and the fit is near perfect :)
The fuselage is secured using Tamiya Extra Thin Quick Setting Cement and masking tape, setting aside to dry thoroughly.
ZM have to be commended as they have sorted the gap at the front or back edge that often appeared when the upper fuselage insert is dropped into place. The fit now is, again, near perfect – happy days!
I added the nose cone with just a small amount of plasticine and a few metal pellets. This isn’t really necessary but just to be on the safe side to avoid any risk of tail-sitting and then the nose cone is added and this too fits perfectly.
I love this stage of a Phantom build because the nose cone shape really starts to make the distinctive lines of the type shine through. None of the joins have been sanded yet.
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Howard Kilburn says
Looking forward to seeing this come together Geoff particularly in SEAC camo… just about my favourite camo scheme ever
Paul Ainsworth says
“Hello,Geoff” – I’m following this project with great interest.
Your previous two Zukei-Mura Phantom builds are testaments to what a great product they are.The level of detail is fantastic.
Digits-crossed for a British version at some point!
As Always,
Paul.
Geoff Coughlin says
Nice one Howard – yes, looking forward to getting to the panting stages :) G
Steve Piggott says
Hi Geoff , good to see another Zoukei Mura Phantom on the bench,
Hope you’re enjoying the build as much as I do,I’ve just finished My 5th ZM Phantom , also a F-4C. Ioved Your method of painting the cockpit tub ,definitely try that on the next one. Looking forward to the build and especially the classic paint scheme .
best wishes as ever, Steve.
Geoff Coughlin says
Excellent Steve and thanks for your interest and comments – soon will be at the painting stage :) Cheers, G
Howard Kilburn says
Loving this build Geoff, can’t wait to see it in camo, also enjoying seeing yr use of Perfect Plastic Putty…. certainly useful on my Spit XIV laminar flow designs conversion… I, m an absolute tyro with conversions but nice to push the boundaries occasionally
Regards H
Steve Piggott says
Hi Geoff, great job with the colour scheme ,and I’m really impressed with the results You get with the Hataka paints, great stuff.
If You do suffer with the Blu-tack marking the paint, try using a very slightly damp microfibre cloth ,and wipe over the affected area, the marks usually come straight off.
Look forward to the next update,
All the best, Steve
Howard Kilburn says
Beautiful camo work Geoff
Geoff Coughlin says
Great tip! Thanks Steve
G
Geoff Coughlin says
Thanks Howard! Cheers, G