1:72 F-14D Tomcat open & closed exhaust nozzles

The real subject

The F-14D is the last production version of the carrier fighter Tomcat. Compared with the first aircraft of the line it received different engines and with them differently shaped exhaust nozzles, so parts from an older kit need not fit it. On this type the nozzles are conspicuous: there are two of them, they sit far apart and at the tail they make up, together with the surface between the engines, a whole visible section of the model. The position in which they are open or drawn in also changes with the engine setting, so a parked and a flying aircraft look different at the back every time.

What the set contains

Replacement nozzles for a model in 1:72 scale, according to the name in the open as well as the closed position. The modeler can thus choose the variant according to the scene being built and does not have to make do with a single kit part. A separately cast or produced part can carry a thinner trailing edge and a deeper nozzle interior than can be made in this scale in an injection mold. The exact number of parts and their place in the assembly is given in the instructions enclosed by the manufacturer.

Building and painting tips

• The parts are not polystyrene and are glued with cyanoacrylate glue; glue for plastic models does not hold on them.
• Cut the surplus material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and carefully sand the remainder down.
• Wash and degrease the parts before painting, otherwise the paint will not hold on the smooth surface.
• Test the fit into the tail dry, because the opening in the fuselage usually needs adjusting.
• Paint the inside of the nozzle before you seat it; afterwards you will not get inside.
• The particular procedure for preparing the parts is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Terms of supply

The nozzles themselves are supplied. The aircraft kit, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.