1:48 Grumman F-14D Tomcat closed exhaust nozzles

Nozzles in the closed position for the F-14D

An add-on set for a model of the Grumman F-14D Tomcat in 1:48 scale. It offers exhaust nozzles in the closed position, that is in the state where the movable petals are drawn together and the exit area is at its smallest. The nozzles are among the most conspicuous places on a finished model, and the part from a kit usually loses out there on the thickness of the wall and on a coarse interior.

The real subject

The F-14 Tomcat was an American carrier fighter with a crew of two and a variable-sweep wing that moved in flight according to speed. The F-14D was the last and best-equipped version of the type. The aircraft had its powerplants housed far apart in roomy nacelles, so both nozzles are clearly visible from the side and from behind, and every simplification shows on a model.

Building and painting tips

• the parts are not polystyrene and are glued with cyanoacrylate
• cut the excess material away with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the remainder
• wash and degrease the parts before painting, as metal shades hold poorly otherwise
• paint the inside of the nozzles before you glue them into the fuselage
• compare the position of the nozzles with images of the machine you are building

Who the set is for

For modelers who want the rear of the model brought up to the level of the rest of the build. It is an add-on set: the model, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise. Check the kit the set is cut for and the exact contents of the package in the manufacturer's instructions.