1:72 SAAB JAS-39C Gripen undercarriage set

The set

Replacement landing gear for a model of the SAAB JAS-39C Gripen in 1:72 scale. On a model standing on a shelf the landing gear is always in view, and at the same time it tends to be the part where the difference between a kit part and an accessory part shows most: the legs are slimmer, the edges sharper and the small details legible even in a small scale.

What the set is good for

The landing gear carries the whole weight of the model, so it matters structurally too. An accessory set lets you build the model more accurately, because the parts have a defined shape and when they are fitted it is easier to control the rake of the legs and the track of the wheels.

Building and painting tips

The parts are not polystyrene, so they are bonded with super glue, not with solvent cement for plastic. Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remainder carefully, so that you do not shorten the leg itself. Wash and degrease the parts before painting and use a primer, otherwise the paint will rub off the edges.

• try the fit in the bay dry, and only then glue
• stand the model on a flat surface while it dries, so that it rests on all its wheels
• support the thin legs until the glue has cured
• check the exact procedure and the scope of the set in the manufacturer's instructions

Who it is for

For the modeler who is building the Gripen in 1:72 scale and wants landing gear more accurate than the base kit offers. The work is fine but calls for no special tool beyond tweezers and a sharp blade.

This is an accessory set. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.