1:48 Yak-7/9, La-5/7, LaGG-3, I-185, MiG-3 Wheels under load

The real subjects

The set is aimed at a group of Soviet fighters of the Second World War: the Yak-7 and Yak-9, the La-5 and La-7, the LaGG-3, the I-185 and the MiG-3. These were aircraft from different design bureaus that differed in engine and in the shape of the fuselage, yet their landing gear wheels matched closely enough for one set to cover them all. Soviet fighters of that period stood on two main wheels retracting into the wing, and those carried the main part of the weight of the aircraft.

What the set offers

Wheels in 1:48 scale with a flattened lower part, as if the aircraft were standing on them. They replace the perfectly round parts from the box, which leave a model looking as though it were floating a little above the surface. This item runs under its own part number, and the range also holds a set with a very similar purpose under a different number, so check the designation when ordering.

Building and painting tips

Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and carefully sand the rest down, so that the outline of the wheel stays round. Wash and degrease the parts before painting. Choose the glue according to the material of the part; for parts that are not made of polystyrene, super glue has proved itself. Turn the wheel dry so that the flat spot points to the ground and the model stands level on both wheels, and only then fix the joint. Paint the tire dark gray, separate the hub with a mask and add fine dust on the contact patch.

Who it is for

For modelers of Soviet fighters in 1:48 scale who build an aircraft standing on the ground. Paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.