1:32 Grumman F-14A Tomcat closed exhaust nozzles

The real subject

The Grumman F-14A Tomcat is one of the best known carrier aircraft with a variable-geometry wing. The pair of exhaust nozzles at the end of the fuselage is made up of movable petals and their cross-section changes with the engine setting. In the contracted position the petals are closed and the tail looks slimmer, and that is the position you see in most photographs of parked machines.

What the set contains

Replacement exhaust nozzles in the contracted position for the F-14A model in 1:32 scale. They replace the original kit parts, which tend to be thick-walled and to have a shallow interior. The set brings finer petals and cleaner edges. Whether it fits your kit without modification is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

The parts are not polystyrene, so make the joint with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue), or on a larger area rather with two-part epoxy, which gives more time to settle them. Cut the excess material away with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remainder with fine sandpaper. Wash the parts in lukewarm soapy water before painting and let them dry completely. Apply metallic shades in thin coats and build the heat staining up toward the edge of the nozzle.

Who it is for

Swapping the nozzles is a rewarding change: it costs little time and shows from a distance. Even a modeler who is only starting with replacement parts can manage it; it just takes a sharp blade and no hurry when sanding the seating. The box holds only the parts listed; the model, the paints and the glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.