1:48 Douglas F4D-1 Skyray EXPERT (TAM 25113)

Decals for the Douglas F4D-1 Skyray

A decal sheet in 1:48 scale for the Douglas F4D-1 Skyray carrier fighter. It carries the EXPERT range designation and a reference to the Tamiya kit with the part number 25113, for which it is cut, so the layout of the motifs allows for the shapes of that particular model.

The real subject

The Skyray was a tailless aircraft with a short delta wing and had a silhouette that nothing else on the deck of an aircraft carrier had in the 1950s. The US Navy bought it as an interceptor and expected one thing from it above all: to get up to an intruder as fast as possible. When aircraft designations were unified in 1962 the F4D-1 became the F-6A and it served out its time under that designation.

How to apply the decals

• Coat the surface under the decal with gloss varnish, as on matte paint there is a risk of silvering.
• Cut the motif out as close to the artwork as you can and dip it briefly in lukewarm water.
• Slide the loosened decal off the paper onto the model and adjust its position with a damp brush.
• Draw the excess water off by pressing a tissue against it, not by wiping sideways.
• Once it is dry, unify the surface with a matte or satin varnish to match the finish.

What the delivery contains

This is a decal sheet in its own right, that is an accessory for a kit. The aircraft model, the paints, the varnishes and a decal softener are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise. The extent of the sheet and the placement of the individual motifs are given in the maker's instructions.