Thanks my friend @michaelt! I gave the Gladiator top build priority, as I am too touched by the loss of Valeriy: the model is practically building itself...
The cockpit is not yet finished...
...only the instrument panel and pedals are attached, the rest of the parts to be attached at later stages. Yes, the cockpit is on the sparse side, but I am ok with it under a closed canopy, will only add seat belts. Regarding the instrument panel, I first trimmed its top, making it more curvy. I attached it AFTER closing the fuselage, basically fitting its side notches to the fuselage ridges, then carefully "pushing" it in position and applying some extra thin glue. Took some twerking for sure but gradually I got comfortable with the micro movements and affixed it in-position...
For the engine assembly and installation, I STRONGLY recommend to follow Tom's
@tcinla advice, which you can find at the start of this topic (he has built the kit and a full review can be found at Modelingmadness archives).
