1:48 Fw 190 A early    [A1 - A4]

An instrument panel for the Fw 190A of the early versions in 1:48 scale

An accessory for the cockpit of a model of the Fw 190A of the early versions in 1:48 scale. It replaces the instrument panel from the kit, that is the part in the place that is most visible on a finished model.

Why an instrument panel is replaced

The instrument panel is the first thing visible under an open canopy. The part from a kit tends to be done as a surface with suggested relief, onto which a decal is stuck or the instruments are painted in by hand, and the result shows as soon as you look into the cockpit from close to. A separate panel is bought precisely so that this part of the cockpit is not merely suggested. It pays off above all on a model built with the canopy slid back.

The real subject

The Fw 190A was a German single-seat fighter of the Second World War, which entered service in 1941 and served to the end of the fighting. The early machines of the A family differ from the later ones in the details of the cockpit equipment, which is why cockpit accessories are distinguished by version, and this one is aimed at the early form.

Fitting

• The accessory is tied to the type of aircraft and the scale, not to one particular kit; try the part dry before gluing.
• The original panel from the kit usually has to be thinned down or removed so that the new one sits at the right position and depth.
• The recommended glue and the procedure for applying it are stated in the manufacturer's instructions, so go by those.
• If you are going to paint the part, wash and degrease it beforehand, otherwise the paint will not hold.

The package contains the cockpit accessory named. The kit, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.