1:72 Northrop F-89 Scorpion wheels set

Northrop F-89 Scorpion wheel set 1:72 (Reskit)

This item is not a kit but a resin accessory for a model. The set replaces the landing gear wheels of the American Northrop F-89 Scorpion fighter in 1:72 scale. Resin castings keep a legible tire tread pattern and the detail of the hub, which on parts this small is usually lost in injection-molded plastic. Before building, check that the set matches the kit you have.

The real subject

The Northrop F-89 Scorpion was a twin-engine two-seat all-weather fighter introduced in the US Air Force in the 1950s. Its typical features were a straight wing with wingtip tanks, a long fuselage with the crew seated in tandem and a substantial nose gear. The machine served mainly as an interceptor in the North American air defense system. Because of its high take-off weight it had robust landing gear with prominent tires.

Building and painting tips

Always wash resin in lukewarm water with detergent before painting, otherwise mold release agent residue will prevent the paint from adhering. Cut the casting blocks off with a saw or a cutting disc and level the surface with a file. Sanding is done wet and with respiratory protection. It is glued with cyanoacrylate; cement for plastic does not work here. A dark gray shade suits the tires better than pure black; separate the hub by masking or by carefully brushing it, and even the finished wheels out with a light dusting of pigment.

Who the set is for

• builders of American aircraft of the 1950s in 1:72 scale
• modelers who want to raise the level of the landing gear without further rebuilding
• more experienced builders used to working with resin
• display case models with the landing gear extended

This is not an aircraft model but an accessory for one. The parts are supplied unpainted; the base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.