Grumman F6F Hellcat, Fujimi
Greetings, friends and modelers. Back posting again after life got busy.
I'm easing my way back to modeling by repairing and upgrading an old Fujimi F6F I had originally done in the 1990s. Decals had flaked and my repairs were inadequate, so I stripped them off and used new US national insignia from an Academy F4U. I also touched up paint where I sanded the old decal off. The "X3" (USS San Jacinto) code and aircraft name are from the original build.
I always thought the Fujimi F6F sat too low on the main landing gear, so I cut them and added oleo struts and torque arms from scrap plastic (see picture 6). Also the torque arms (links) are facing forward on F6Fs which surprised me, since most face aft on WW2 fighters.
I am pleased with the result, as I really dislike throwing out old models that had wear and tear, or I hadn't completed them quite right.
Thanks for your patience with this post, as there are much better and more advanced F6Fs posted already on iModeler - I recommend using the search feature and reviewing all of them.
Nice looking Hellcat, beautiful rebuild Bob @bobd56az. I have this kit in my stash. I hope mine turns out as good when I get around to it.
This kit is mostly trouble free, Clint. The rivet surface detail is a bit exaggerated and caused my original decal problems. Light sanding and decal setting solution recommended.
If you get a deal on a Hobby Boss F6F, I got one recently, and it looks like Tamiya quality.
Happy modeling!
Excellent result and great save, Bob! Really great to renew/refurbish older models, as you have done here and I like the lengthening of the main legs.
Well done!
Great looking effort, Bob.
A very nice looking Hellcat
Great result on refreshing the looks of this Hellcat, Bob @bobd56az
Great work in bringing this ol’ timer up to date.
Very nice!
Nice Hellcat restoration. First time I’ve seen a Fujimi airplane kit built. Looks great
Very nice - I never attempted to "upgrade" my older builds - I should consider that before trashing them! Great-looking Hellcat.