1:72 Vought F-8E

The real subject

The F-8 Crusader is an American carrier-borne fighter with one pilot and one engine. Its unmistakable feature is the wing, which on a carrier landing lifts as a whole to a greater angle of incidence, so that the aircraft can descend more slowly while the fuselage stays level. Unlike the newer machines of the day, the Crusader kept 20 mm cannon as its main armament, supplemented by guided missiles. The version designated E was the most widespread and most heavily armed, and served above all in the 1960s.

What the set contains

An accessory set in 1:72 scale that replaces the exhaust nozzle at the rear of the fuselage. The kit part is usually shallow and has no internal structure, while the replacement has a deeper profile and a thinner rim. The exact scope of the set, the number of parts and the kit it is cut for are given in the manufacturer's instructions; check the match with your own model beforehand. The parts are not polystyrene and are joined with cyanoacrylate.

Building and painting tips

Cut surplus material away with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the remainder off, so that the rim of the nozzle stays thin and the circular opening regular. Wash and degrease the parts before painting. Paint the inside before you glue the nozzle into the fuselage, as afterwards a brush will not reach in. Apply metallic shades in thin coats over a smooth surface; a rougher surface will dull them. Test dry how the part sits in the fuselage and fill any play, so that no gap is left around the nozzle.

• 1:72 scale, an accessory set for a model of the Vought F-8E
• replaces the exhaust nozzle from the kit
• the parts are not polystyrene and are bonded with cyanoacrylate
• washing and degreasing are needed before painting
• the scope of the set and the suitable kit are given in the manufacturer's instructions

Terms of supply

The aircraft kit, paints and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.