XP-72 Super Thunderbolt
in 1/144 Scale

by Alex Bernardo

Republic XP-72 Super Thunderbolt

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Here is Revell's 1/144 P-47D Thunderbolt converted to the prototype Super Thunderbolt.

Construction Summary

• Scratch built cockpit includes main instrument panel, side consoles, rudder pedals, decking with rudder slider panels, front and rear bulkheads, seat, headrest, control stick.

• Heat n Smash canopy.

• Boxed in main landing gear bays using styrene sheets.

• Added scissors to main landing gear.

• Used a 1/144 “Jack”/”Raiden” engine cowling as the basis for extended 4 row, 28 cylinder engine cowling.

• The turbo super charger nose intake was relocated to underneath of the aircraft, hence creating a new belly configuration.

• Added new exhaust gills.

• All raised panel lines were replaced w/ recessed panel lines.

• Contra prop was constructed using a spare 1/144 scale prop hub. Scribed a split line for reverse direction props. Constructed props from styrene strips.

• Reconfigured armament from eight guns to six guns. Used cut wire for gun barrels.

The following diagram highlights the areas of major structural modifications:

Paint

• Tamiya Acrylics: Smoke, Clear Gloss

• PollyScale: Grimy Black, Clear flat, Olive Drab

• Testors Enamel: Silver, Gray, Zinc Chromate Yellow, Steel

• Polly S: Bright Silver

Decals

• Superscale decal sheet: Stars & Bars: 72-002

• Serial numbers were printed from laser printer on to clear decal film.
  
   

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

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Model, Images and Article Copyright © 2002 by Alex Bernardo
Page Created 29 May 2002
Last updated 04 June 2007

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