1:48 A-4B Skyhawk - refueling probe boom

MASTER 1:48 A-4B Skyhawk - refueling probe boom

A turned metal refueling probe boom for models of the A-4B Skyhawk attack aircraft in 1:48 scale. It is not a kit but a single part which replaces the plastic probe for in-flight refueling on a model. There were several versions of the refueling boom on the Skyhawk and they differ in shape as well as length; this item is listed specifically for the A-4B version.

Why replace the plastic part

The refueling probe is a thin, long and unprotected projection on the right side of the nose. On a model it is the most exposed place of all: the plastic part bends as soon as it is taken off the sprue, once glued it twists under its own weight and with the first careless handling of the finished model it snaps off. A turned metal replacement is straight, stiff and keeps its shape once glued, so it survives being carried to a show and back.

Fitting and painting tips

Cut the plastic probe off at its root and drill a hole in the fuselage to match the diameter of the shank, drilling slowly and preferably in two stages. Check dry that the boom points parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft and does not form any unwanted angle with it, as a view from the front reveals even a small deviation. Fix it with a drop of super glue. Degrease the metal with alcohol before painting and use a base color for metal, or the shade will rub off the smooth surface. On a finished model the boom tends to be darker and more worn than the surrounding finish, so a light dark wash and gentle lightening of the edges suit it.

Who the part is for

• Builders of an A-4B Skyhawk model in 1:48 scale
• Modelers whose plastic probe keeps breaking
• Anyone interested in the correct variant of the boom for a particular version of the Skyhawk
• Those who take models to competitions and need durable projections

This is an accessory for a kit, not a complete model. The kit, glue and paints are not included in the package.