1:48 B-17 G

The real subject

The Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress was an American four-engine bomber and the last and most numerous production version of the whole series. The recognition mark of the G version is the gun turret under the nose, added to defend against head-on attacks. The pilots' cockpit is easy to see into on a model from the side and from above, so an empty instrument panel from the kit needlessly catches the eye on a finished example.

What the part offers

This is a replacement instrument panel for a model in 1:48 scale that takes the place of the simplified part from the kit. The material of the part, its form and whether the instruments are rendered in color are given by the manufacturer; those details are not stated here. The kit the panel is cut for is not stated here either, so before buying it pays to compare the size with the model you are building.

Building and painting tips

Sand the original panel in the kit flat, so that the replacement part seats with no step and stays at the right height against the bulkhead. Try it dry first with the fuselage glued together as well, because a cockpit tends to be narrower once closed than it seems. Choose the glue according to the material the manufacturer gives, and apply it only in a small amount to the edges, so that it does not run onto the front face. A drop of gloss varnish applied with the tip of a toothpick gives the dials the impression of glass.

• 1:48 scale, the subject is the Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress
• a replacement for the simplified instrument panel from the kit
• the material and form of the part are given by the manufacturer
• the original panel has to be sanded flat first
• try the part dry before the fuselage is glued together

Terms of supply

This is an accessory for a build, not a kit of the aircraft. Paints, glue and the model are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.