1:32 Grumman F-14A Tomcat open exhaust nozzles

The real subject

The Grumman F-14 Tomcat is an American carrier fighter with a variable-geometry wing and a crew of two, made up of a pilot and a weapon systems operator. Both engine nacelles are set apart from each other and between them runs a wide flat fuselage that itself contributes to lifting the machine. The A version was the first production form of the type and served with the Navy for decades. Thanks to the spaced nacelles the rear end of the aircraft is clearly visible from most angles, and that is why it draws attention when building a large model.

What the set solves

The set replaces the engine exhaust nozzles with parts done in the open position. The nozzle of a jet engine changes its cross-section with the setting, so its position belongs to the scene you are building: spread nozzles match an aircraft standing on the ground with its engines shut down. In the large 1:32 scale the interior of the nozzle is striking, and a replacement part tends to be done thinner and with deeper rendering than a kit allows.

Building and painting tips

First wash and degrease the parts. Cut excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remainder down. Try the fit dry and watch that both nozzles come out the same distance and are turned the same way. Apply the metallic shades onto a smooth base, otherwise the grain shows in the sheen, and graduate the heat discoloration according to photographs of the real machine.

Terms of supply

This is an add-on set. The aircraft kit, the paints and the glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.