Converting a Bf 109 to a Ha-1109 K.1L Tripala

Where do we start?

First off, the kit to convert needs to be found. The starting point will be the SBS-model resin conversion kit mentioned elsewhere on iModeler. It is designed to use Tamiyas new Bf109 G-6.

The Ha-1109 initially were to be the Bf-109 J, and was based on a supply of 109 G-2 (or G-4) fuselages to Spain in 1944. That means that there are some minor differences on the hatches to be addressed on the Tamiya kit.

Perfect fit. (Though you still have to modify the windscreen part of the kit)

Another option to consider is the Zvezda range, but they do not have an G-2/G-4 available (yet). They have an F-2/F-4 offering, and that kit has been updated with a new tree to make an G-6.

The F-2/F-4 fuselage has the advantage of a separate tail – more on that later.

The fit of the windscreen is close, but needs work

One way to get around that, will be to modify the resin, as the area in front of the screen in the kit is a separate item.

So far that leaves three kits that may be used. The Eduard Bf-109 G-2/G-4 kit is also an option, but that needs major surgery – I will check that in a later post (have so far just held the windscreen against the resin – very bad fit!

next up I shall be addressing other issues with making a correct Ha-1109 – your thoughts and comments are encouraged

I assume there is a reason you don't want to just go with the Tamiya kit? I don't do many conversions like this, but I have done a few with kits other than those the parts are designed for and I always have a bunch of problems. But with your skills the result will probably come out perfect. The only question is how much work it will be?

Erik, I’ll be following this build with keen interest. I had the impression this resin conversion was fit for Eduard 109, which it seems not to be. Tamiya will be a fantastic but expensive base to work. Eduard would be a cheaper base no doubt

Having built those 3 brands, my opinion about Zvezda kit is a good one, though I rank it bronze medal in the podium. Perhaps the most demanding as far as assembly, very accurate but the plastic and its surface sharpness is a bit inconsistent at parts. It also has the price advantage vs Tamiya. Question for you Erik is how good do SBS parts fit that kit?

9 months has passed since I last had this one out of the box. During this time I have come to the conclusion that it will have to be the new Tamiya kit as the conversion is designed around that one. The plastic has been washed, and a "build-box" has been freed up. I'm in other words out of excuses, and will have to start this one soon. Stay tuned!

I aim to please @gkittinger, I aim to please. Thank you for the most kind comment - I appreciate it!

Hi, Erik @airbum. I agree with Spiros on the tail offset. This seems like high-risk to the model for very little payoff. You would know the off-set is missing, but I doubt anyone else would. If you plan to enter it in contests then perhaps you could consider doing it to appease the "rivet counters".

Tamiya it is

I take the easy route and go with the Tamiya kit

That makes it easier to fit everything, and as it is my first major resin surgery, it will be valuable experience.

I cleaned up some of the resin-parts to start trimming them and some testfitting took place. I used a knife for some parts to avoid dust, and had it all on a wet tissue.

It is said that resin-dust is very harmful, and should be avoided. I made the parts wet, then a saw was brought into play, making sure it too was wet. All the paper and resin remains were then packed in a tight plastic bag, and I had a dustfree table.

I cut off the propellershaft and engine mount of the styrene, and testfitted the initial results.

It all looks to be fitting, and just needs some trimming now. I only just discovered that I must have broken the side of the inner left side of the resin-part, so there will be some surgery there, but it is a smooth plate, so that should be possible.

now I have to figure out how to make a proper instrument panel – it is very different from the 109G – more like a 109K, and some more AM etch has been ordered for that.