1:72 deHavilland DH.98

The real subject

The de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito was a British twin-engine multipurpose aircraft of the Second World War, built predominantly of wood. It was exactly the wooden monocoque structure that gave it a smooth, clean surface and a low weight, so it was among the fastest machines of its day. It served as a fast bomber and as a reconnaissance, night fighter and attack aircraft, and its shape is recognized even by people who otherwise take no interest in aviation.

What the set contains

The set brings replacement wheels for a model of the Mosquito in 1:72 scale. The tires have a flattened contact area, so the model rests on the surface over a whole patch instead of a thin line of contact and looks as though the real weight of the aircraft were resting on the landing gear. In 1:72 scale a wheel is one of the few places where detail on a finished model really is seen close up, which is why replacing it pays off. The extent of the set is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

Try the wheel dry before gluing and check where the axle runs; once glued, the flat has to point at the ground. Then stand the model on a flat board and let it settle under its own weight until the glue has set. The parts are not made of polystyrene; they are glued with super glue. Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remainder down. Wash and degrease the wheels before painting; choose a dark gray tone for the tire, as pure black kills the shape in a small scale.

• 1:72 scale
• replacement wheels for a model of the DH.98 Mosquito
• tires with a flattened contact area
• glued with super glue
• the flat points at the ground when fitted

Terms of supply

The kit of the aircraft, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.