1:72 Yokosuka D4Y1/D4Y2 Susei Control Surfaces

Control surface masks for the Yokosuka D4Y1 and D4Y2 Suisei in 1:72 scale (Dead Design)

Self-adhesive masks for the control surfaces of a model of the early versions of the Japanese Yokosuka D4Y carrier dive bomber in 1:72 scale. Spraying over the templates creates fine shading on the ailerons and the rudder that matches the ribbed fabric structure. The set holds masking material, not parts of the model.

The real subject

The D4Y1 and D4Y2 versions differ from the later variants in their powerplant. They had a liquid-cooled engine, which gave them a slender nose tapering to a point and lent the type an unusually aerodynamic silhouette for a carrier bomber of the day. The rudder and the ailerons stayed fabric-covered.

How much effect in a small scale

In 1:72 scale a whole control surface is only a few millimeters wide, so the rule is that less is more. Thin the paint more than usual, lower the pressure and spray from a greater distance, so that the transition stays soft. A strong contrast that looks good in 1:32 scale slips here into the look of a striped toy. A test pass on a piece of an old sprue in the same shade and at the same dilution is worth doing. You will see how the paint covers, and only then should you turn the airbrush on the model.

Who the set is for

• Modelers building Japanese carrier aircraft in 1:72 scale.
• Builders who want to bring out surface structure on a small model.
• Airbrush users with a fine nozzle and pressure control.
• Those who want an effect more durable than a decal.

The package holds masking material only. The model and paints are not part of it, unless stated otherwise.