This week I worked on getting the base coat of paint applied and also worked on more details on the aircraft. The guns, drop tanks, and refueling probe were detailed. The leading edge slats were installed in the extended position.
The upcoming week I will start applying the numerous decals. Once these are done I need to detail the canopy, mount the HUD, Then install the light lenses and drop tanks to complete the model before the Holidays.
You can see all the photos and details from the start in the build log at: 1/48 A-4M Skyhawk VMA-214
UPDATE:
Back in 2008 I built my first commission build. This was a commissioned work for a crew member who served aboard this C-118. They were stationed out of NAS Glenview. Using actual photo’s I was able to create the actual aircraft using Heller’s 1/72 C-118 Liftmaster. Fast forward to 2025 – The model survived many movements and cleaning over the years. However, a few weeks ago it was accidently knocked off the shelf. This damaged one of the propellers, the nose gear, the nose gear doors, and the wings off the fuselage. I had to scratch build the propeller and nose gear doors. With everything repaired I decided to mount this on a circular plaque along with a copy of the squadron patch so that it can be hung on a wall to prevent further shelf falls.
You can see the original completed photos and the newly mounted plaque at: 1/72 C-118 Liftmaster – VR-51
