1:48 F-16I Sufa weighted wheels

Why flattened wheels

A standing aircraft rests on its tires with all its weight and they are noticeably compressed where they meet the ground. An injection-molded wheel from a kit, by contrast, is perfectly round, so the model looks as if it were only touching the ground. Replacement wheels with flattening even that difference out: at the moment the model settles on all three wheels, its whole stance changes as well. It is one of the simplest modifications with an immediately visible effect.

Which model the wheels are intended for

The set is listed for the F-16I with the designation Sufa, that is, the Israeli two-seat version of the F-16, in 1:48 scale. Replacement wheels tend to be made as a direct replacement for the parts from a kit, but the number of parts and the way they are seated are given by the manufacturer's instructions. Before you fit the set, try a wheel on the landing gear stub dry and check that it settles in the right plane.

• replacement wheels for a model of the F-16I Sufa in 1:48 scale
• a tire with flattening at the contact patch
• the parts are not polystyrene; they are glued with cyanoacrylate
• the flattened area must face the ground
• the number of parts and the seating are given by the manufacturer's instructions

Building and painting tips

Cut the excess material away with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the rest carefully so as not to cut into the shape of the tire. Wash and degrease the parts before painting, otherwise the paint will not hold. The position is essential: the flattened area faces the ground and both main wheels must settle at the same time, otherwise the model stands crooked. Glue the wheels at an angle tried dry, and only then secure the joint. Paint the rim and the tire separately; the dividing line then comes out crisp.

Terms of supply

The model of the aircraft, paints, glue and tools are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.