1:48 50gal

An accessory for 1:48 scale

An item from the range of accessories to airplane models in 1:48 scale. The designation in the name gives a capacity of fifty gallons, that is the measure in which the contents of fuel tanks and containers have been expressed in aviation from of old. A closer identification of the part, its dimensions and the number of pieces in the package are stated by the manufacturer on the packaging and in the instructions, which you should follow during assembly.

How much fifty gallons is

A gallon is not the same size everywhere. The British imperial gallon has roughly 4.5 liters, the American one roughly 3.8 liters. Fifty gallons therefore corresponds to about 227, or alternatively 189 liters. In 1:48 scale every dimension shrinks forty-eight times, so even a bulky container works out as a small part that is easily lost in the hand. It is therefore worth working over a surface with a raised edge and carrying the part with tweezers.

Building and painting tips

• wash and degrease the parts before painting, or the paint will not hold on them
• cut the surplus material off with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the remainder down
• choose the glue according to the material of the parts and follow the manufacturer's instructions
• try the joint dry before gluing, as the position of small parts is hard to correct
• a base coat unifies the surface and shows up the scratches that still need sanding out
• a dark wash run into the recesses and a light rub of the edges give the part depth

Terms of supply

The accessory alone is supplied. The airplane kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.