1:72 P-51D Mustang108gal paper drop tanks PRINT

Drop tanks of 108 gallons for the P-51D Mustang, 1:72 scale

A set of printed drop tanks in the paper form for a model of the P-51D Mustang fighter in 1:72 scale. A volume of 108 American gallons corresponds to roughly 410 liters of fuel per tank.

The real subject

Escort fighters had to reach deep over the continent with a bomber formation and come back, and that was impossible without fuel hung under the wings. Alongside metal tanks, tanks of pressed laminated paper were therefore made as well. They were cheap to produce, they did not use up the aluminum needed elsewhere and they were counted on as single-use items: once empty, they were dropped. The paper tanks were hung under the wings and in period photographs of Mustangs they are among the most conspicuous elements of the external stores.

Building and painting tips

• Separate the parts from the print supports with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the remainder back carefully.
• The material is not polystyrene; it is glued with cyanoacrylate glue, not with cement for plastic.
• Wash and degrease the parts before painting, or the paint will hold unevenly.
• The surface of a paper tank was flat and wore quickly, so a subdued shade suits it rather than a gloss.
• Deal with the hanging and the recommended order of the steps according to the manufacturer's instructions and the kit you are using.

Who the set is for

For builders of Mustang models in 1:72 scale who want their external stores finer and more accurate in shape than the part from the box tends to be, and who are building the machine in the fit for a long escort flight.

The package holds the parts stated only. The kit, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.