1:72 Messerschmitt Bf-109 E-4 with PeilG IV Conversion Set

Converting the Bf 109 E-4 into the version with the PeilG IV radio direction finder

This is a conversion set, not an aircraft model. It contains parts with which an ordinary Messerschmitt Bf 109 E-4 kit in 1:72 scale is modified into a machine fitted with the PeilG IV radio direction finder. This equipment served to determine the bearing of a ground transmitting station, that is for navigation where there were no landmarks: over the sea, over solid cloud and at night. On the aircraft it showed above all in a loop aerial and the covers that went with it, so the difference from a standard machine is clearly visible on a model.

The real subject

The Bf 109 E-4 was a single-seat fighter with a liquid-cooled inverted V12, that is with the cylinders below the crankshaft. The E-4 version differed from the older machines in its armor and armament. Machines fitted with the direction finder came into their own mainly where they had to get back over water or in the dark.

Usage tips

• First wash the resin parts in lukewarm soapy water to get rid of the mold release agent.
• Cut the casting blocks off with a saw and level the mating surfaces with a file.
• Mark out the parts of the fuselage that are to be removed in advance and cut away less rather than more.
• Glue with cyanoacrylate glue, because cement for plastic has no effect on resin.
• Fit the aerial only after painting, because it breaks off easily during handling.

Who it is for

The set is for modelers who are building a particular machine and want to capture its real equipment. It assumes experience with resin and with modifying plastic parts by cutting.

It is not an aircraft model. The base kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.