1:72 Boeing 747 SCA with Space Shuttle
![Album image #1 Album image #1](/albums/img/6/9/0/757690-70141-52-720.jpg)
The idea for this project started long ago, when I was a kid.. I saw the Boeing 747 with Shuttle on it's back making a flyby over the Dutch coast and heading it's way to Heathrow, during a visit to Europe trip in the eighties.
I was immediately impressed, what a beautiful piece of engineering.. I wanted a model of it.
My parents gave me this poster which I still have.
I was immediately impressed, what a beautiful piece of engineering.. I wanted a model of it.
My parents gave me this poster which I still have.
![Album image #2 Album image #2](/albums/img/8/4/4/1249844-70141-69-720.jpg)
So the idea of having a (big) model of this was always in my head... until 2017.
Just as the damaged Skyland 1:72 KLM 747, I found a seller of an old 1:72 Skyland Qantas Boeing 747-100, also damaged. So for 40€ it was mine, and I immediately thought of making my wish come true: I'm going to do a makeover and turn this old queen into a big beautiful B747 SCA with Space Shuttle on top!
Just as the damaged Skyland 1:72 KLM 747, I found a seller of an old 1:72 Skyland Qantas Boeing 747-100, also damaged. So for 40€ it was mine, and I immediately thought of making my wish come true: I'm going to do a makeover and turn this old queen into a big beautiful B747 SCA with Space Shuttle on top!
![Album image #3 Album image #3](/albums/img/8/4/6/1249846-70141-33-720.jpg)
I immediately took my Revell 1:72 Space Shuttle kit, taped it roughly together to see what the final construction would look like. Here's my girlfriend holding the Shuttle in place so I could take a picture of it
![Album image #4 Album image #4](/albums/img/8/4/7/1249847-70141-92-720.jpg)
And here's the queen next to her restored sister
![Album image #5 Album image #5](/albums/img/8/4/8/1249848-70141-92-720.jpg)
First I started an inspection of the model
![Album image #6 Album image #6](/albums/img/8/4/9/1249849-70141-10-720.jpg)
Another 1m x 1m project
![Album image #7 Album image #7](/albums/img/8/5/0/1249850-70141-82-720.jpg)
But scratched on several places.
![Album image #8 Album image #8](/albums/img/8/5/1/1249851-70141-40-720.jpg)
...severe scratches...
![Album image #9 Album image #9](/albums/img/8/5/2/1249852-70141-66-720.jpg)
...and heavy damage to the underbelly!
![Album image #10 Album image #10](/albums/img/8/5/3/1249853-70141-45-720.jpg)
First I repaired that nasty damage by gluing the cracks together, little by little and with a clamp
![Album image #11 Album image #11](/albums/img/8/5/4/1249854-70141-62-720.jpg)
Several drops of superglue, and let dry, then repeat for the next part. This way I could 'guide' the repair
![Album image #12 Album image #12](/albums/img/8/5/5/1249855-70141-63-720.jpg)
![Album image #13 Album image #13](/albums/img/8/5/6/1249856-70141-41-720.jpg)
After the repair I started sanding. Lots of sanding..
![Album image #14 Album image #14](/albums/img/8/5/7/1249857-70141-81-720.jpg)
![Album image #15 Album image #15](/albums/img/8/6/0/1249860-70141-41-720.jpg)
![Album image #16 Album image #16](/albums/img/8/5/9/1249859-70141-90-720.jpg)
...until it was ready for a primer coat later.
![Album image #17 Album image #17](/albums/img/8/6/1/1249861-70141-28-720.jpg)
In the meantime I searched the Internet for the Transport Wings AIM72 conversion set no. TWC72001 ; that's a conversion set for making the carrying construction for the Space Shuttle on a Boeing 747
![Album image #18 Album image #18](/albums/img/8/6/2/1249862-70141-40-720.jpg)
Contents: white metal carrying construction..
![Album image #19 Album image #19](/albums/img/8/6/3/1249863-70141-85-720.jpg)
..and vacform endplate fins...
![Album image #20 Album image #20](/albums/img/8/6/4/1249864-70141-20-720.jpg)
..and a decal sheet for a NASA 747.
Somewhere I knew I couldn't find this set anymore, as AIM72 is out of business.. and that's right, nowhere available anymore.
Somewhere I knew I couldn't find this set anymore, as AIM72 is out of business.. and that's right, nowhere available anymore.
![Album image #21 Album image #21](/albums/img/8/6/5/1249865-70141-29-720.jpg)
So back to some evenings Internet surfing. I found several highly detailed pictures and drawings of the construction, like:
![Album image #22 Album image #22](/albums/img/8/6/6/1249866-70141-74-720.jpg)
![Album image #23 Album image #23](/albums/img/8/6/7/1249867-70141-25-720.jpg)
![Album image #24 Album image #24](/albums/img/8/6/8/1249868-70141-80-720.jpg)
![Album image #25 Album image #25](/albums/img/8/6/9/1249869-70141-79-720.jpg)
![Album image #26 Album image #26](/albums/img/8/7/0/1249870-70141-95-720.jpg)
![Album image #27 Album image #27](/albums/img/8/7/1/1249871-70141-99-720.jpg)
![Album image #28 Album image #28](/albums/img/8/7/2/1249872-70141-76-720.jpg)
![Album image #29 Album image #29](/albums/img/8/7/3/1249873-70141-29-720.png)
![Album image #30 Album image #30](/albums/img/8/7/4/1249874-70141-95-720.png)
![Album image #31 Album image #31](/albums/img/8/7/5/1249875-70141-20-720.jpg)
![Album image #32 Album image #32](/albums/img/8/7/6/1249876-70141-33-720.jpg)
![Album image #33 Album image #33](/albums/img/8/7/7/1249877-70141-48-720.png)
![Album image #34 Album image #34](/albums/img/8/7/8/1249878-70141-12-720.jpg)
Source: Wikimedia
All very nice and detailed, but look at the amount of detail.. How could I ever reproduce something like that from scratch?
And, from what material does it have to be to support a 1:72 Revell Space Shuttle?
All very nice and detailed, but look at the amount of detail.. How could I ever reproduce something like that from scratch?
And, from what material does it have to be to support a 1:72 Revell Space Shuttle?
![Album image #35 Album image #35](/albums/img/8/7/9/1249879-70141-72-720.jpg)
One thing I can scratchbuild myself: the endplate fins. I had some measurements and enough sample pictures to make those from Plasticard, so I did:
![Album image #36 Album image #36](/albums/img/8/8/0/1249880-70141-51-720.jpg)
![Album image #37 Album image #37](/albums/img/8/8/1/1249881-70141-25-720.jpg)
![Album image #38 Album image #38](/albums/img/8/8/2/1249882-70141-84-720.png)
As you can see, first I made them with rounded edges.. I don't remember why i did that, but it sure is incorrect.
So I corrected them again, you will see in later pictures.
So I corrected them again, you will see in later pictures.
![Album image #39 Album image #39](/albums/img/8/8/3/1249883-70141-78-720.jpg)
Meanwhile I kept searching the Internet for all kind of info, pictures and details of the Boeing 747 SCA.
I came to the site of DrawDecal who makes excellent decal sets in almost all available sizes, and I found a 1:72 decal set for the NASA Boeing 747-100 'N905NA' SCA 🙂!!
So I ordered this set, again a step forward in my long lasting project.
This is the set
I came to the site of DrawDecal who makes excellent decal sets in almost all available sizes, and I found a 1:72 decal set for the NASA Boeing 747-100 'N905NA' SCA 🙂!!
So I ordered this set, again a step forward in my long lasting project.
This is the set
![Album image #40 Album image #40](/albums/img/8/8/4/1249884-70141-13-720.jpg)
![Album image #41 Album image #41](/albums/img/8/8/5/1249885-70141-34-720.jpg)
![Album image #42 Album image #42](/albums/img/8/8/7/1249887-70141-18-720.jpg)
Looks promising! Even the barely visible 'American' decal is present. (The N905NA is an ex- American Airlines 747, transformed into a SCA. In the hurry from the Space Shuttle project they removed the American logo but it kept visible..).
So on with the project!
So on with the project!
![Album image #43 Album image #43](/albums/img/8/8/6/1249886-70141-15-720.jpg)
I had a Space Shuttle to build. A 1:72 scale Space Shuttle, quite big.
I didn't spent much effort to the flightdeck, as you can barely see any detail through the little thick transparent windows
I didn't spent much effort to the flightdeck, as you can barely see any detail through the little thick transparent windows
![Album image #44 Album image #44](/albums/img/8/8/8/1249888-70141-24-720.jpg)
Much darkness in there..
![Album image #45 Album image #45](/albums/img/8/9/0/1249890-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #46 Album image #46](/albums/img/8/8/9/1249889-70141-72-720.jpg)
As it rides piggyback on the 747, it's very 'static': no flaps,gear or protruding elements or whatsoever. Easy for buiding this kit, just gluing it closed and filling and sanding the seems and gaps.
But 1 little (ehm...BIG) problem: the SCA Shuttles always carries a streamlined cone on the tail to avoid air resistance around the Shuttle exhaust.
Source: NASA
But 1 little (ehm...BIG) problem: the SCA Shuttles always carries a streamlined cone on the tail to avoid air resistance around the Shuttle exhaust.
Source: NASA
![Album image #47 Album image #47](/albums/img/8/9/1/1249891-70141-10-720.png)
I know this cone is provided with the 1:144 Revell Boeing 747 SCA kit
![Album image #48 Album image #48](/albums/img/8/9/3/1249893-70141-98-720.png)
...but I need that part twice as big!
That is available..
...for a little $160! No way.
So, back to the pc and the Internet, searching for info, pictures and plans if possible. It will be a new project scratchbuilding I think.
That is available..
...for a little $160! No way.
So, back to the pc and the Internet, searching for info, pictures and plans if possible. It will be a new project scratchbuilding I think.
![Album image #49 Album image #49](/albums/img/8/9/2/1249892-70141-94-720.jpg)
After a long search collecting data, i found a detailed drawing of the cone 🙂!
I enlarged the drawing until it fitted the size of the 1:72 Space Shuttle fuselage half so I knew it was the right size.
Then I started making ribs for the structure from plasticard.
I miss some photo's during this process, but here you see what I fabricated
I enlarged the drawing until it fitted the size of the 1:72 Space Shuttle fuselage half so I knew it was the right size.
Then I started making ribs for the structure from plasticard.
I miss some photo's during this process, but here you see what I fabricated
![Album image #50 Album image #50](/albums/img/8/9/4/1249894-70141-98-720.jpg)
![Album image #51 Album image #51](/albums/img/8/9/5/1249895-70141-31-720.jpg)
![Album image #52 Album image #52](/albums/img/8/9/6/1249896-70141-93-720.jpg)
![Album image #53 Album image #53](/albums/img/8/9/8/1249898-70141-86-720.jpg)
After the rib structure was completed, i started cutting polystyrene strips and gluing them to the ribs so I got a rough covered structure
![Album image #54 Album image #54](/albums/img/8/9/7/1249897-70141-29-720.jpg)
![Album image #55 Album image #55](/albums/img/8/9/9/1249899-70141-57-720.jpg)
![Album image #56 Album image #56](/albums/img/9/0/0/1249900-70141-70-720.jpg)
![Album image #57 Album image #57](/albums/img/9/0/1/1249901-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #58 Album image #58](/albums/img/9/0/2/1249902-70141-95-720.jpg)
![Album image #59 Album image #59](/albums/img/9/0/3/1249903-70141-41-720.jpg)
![Album image #60 Album image #60](/albums/img/9/0/4/1249904-70141-80-720.jpg)
When that looked good enough I started adding lots of putty on the coverage. LOTS of putty..
![Album image #61 Album image #61](/albums/img/9/0/5/1249905-70141-62-720.jpg)
![Album image #62 Album image #62](/albums/img/9/0/6/1249906-70141-97-720.jpg)
![Album image #63 Album image #63](/albums/img/9/0/7/1249907-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #64 Album image #64](/albums/img/9/0/8/1249908-70141-91-720.jpg)
Ok, so A LOT of sanding later...
![Album image #65 Album image #65](/albums/img/9/0/9/1249909-70141-51-720.jpg)
...it's starting...
![Album image #66 Album image #66](/albums/img/9/1/0/1249910-70141-56-720.jpg)
..to look like something 🙂..
![Album image #67 Album image #67](/albums/img/9/1/1/1249911-70141-20-720.jpg)
..and it saves me $160! But as you can see, there is still extra filling and sanding to do to get the surface of the cone smoother. But it's a start!
![Album image #68 Album image #68](/albums/img/9/1/2/1249912-70141-58-720.jpg)
![Album image #69 Album image #69](/albums/img/9/1/3/1249913-70141-35-720.jpg)
During the build of my Space Shuttle I was still searching the Internet for a solution for a carrying construction.
And after intensive searching I found a site called Shapeways, a forum for 3D printed things. From jewelry to modelling, a lot of stuff to explore there!
And behold, there was someone offering a 1:72 Shuttle carrier set, consisting of these parts
And after intensive searching I found a site called Shapeways, a forum for 3D printed things. From jewelry to modelling, a lot of stuff to explore there!
And behold, there was someone offering a 1:72 Shuttle carrier set, consisting of these parts
![Album image #70 Album image #70](/albums/img/9/1/4/1249914-70141-97-720.jpg)
It is a strange kind of plastic; transparent, very hard but also very brittle.. So I have to handle it carefully
![Album image #71 Album image #71](/albums/img/9/1/5/1249915-70141-73-720.jpg)
![Album image #72 Album image #72](/albums/img/9/1/6/1249916-70141-26-720.jpg)
And it's very detailed
![Album image #73 Album image #73](/albums/img/9/1/7/1249917-70141-91-720.jpg)
![Album image #74 Album image #74](/albums/img/9/1/8/1249918-70141-43-720.jpg)
So time to calculate the exact position of the construction on the 747 fuselage.. Not an easy job, as the fuselage has no reference points at all
![Album image #75 Album image #75](/albums/img/9/1/9/1249919-70141-86-720.jpg)
![Album image #76 Album image #76](/albums/img/9/2/0/1249920-70141-69-720.jpg)
Drawed the drilling points for the holes on the fuselage, and positioned the front strut after that.
The aft struts on the fuselage had to wait for a while, because I didn't know the exact position of the Shuttle. So back to project Shuttle.
The aft struts on the fuselage had to wait for a while, because I didn't know the exact position of the Shuttle. So back to project Shuttle.
![Album image #77 Album image #77](/albums/img/9/2/1/1249921-70141-20-720.jpg)
I found a detailed decal set of Shuttle tiles on eBay, made by Warbird decals. I ordered that set, and man, what a lot of decals!
![Album image #78 Album image #78](/albums/img/9/2/2/1249922-70141-10-720.jpg)
![Album image #79 Album image #79](/albums/img/9/2/3/1249923-70141-25-720.jpg)
![Album image #80 Album image #80](/albums/img/9/2/4/1249924-70141-31-720.jpg)
![Album image #81 Album image #81](/albums/img/9/2/5/1249925-70141-12-720.jpg)
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![Album image #83 Album image #83](/albums/img/9/2/7/1249927-70141-77-720.jpg)
![Album image #84 Album image #84](/albums/img/9/2/9/1249929-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #85 Album image #85](/albums/img/9/2/8/1249928-70141-60-720.jpg)
Wow.. another new project in this huge project...
Well, first I sanded the shuttle as smooth as possible, so I could give it a primer coat.
I used the Tamiya primer spray can, as this Shuttle is quite a beast
Well, first I sanded the shuttle as smooth as possible, so I could give it a primer coat.
I used the Tamiya primer spray can, as this Shuttle is quite a beast
![Album image #86 Album image #86](/albums/img/9/3/0/1249930-70141-68-720.jpg)
After that, a white spray because most of the shuttle is white. I sprayed it outside in a box
![Album image #87 Album image #87](/albums/img/9/3/3/1249933-70141-64-720.jpg)
And this is the result.
![Album image #88 Album image #88](/albums/img/9/3/1/1249931-70141-13-720.jpg)
![Album image #89 Album image #89](/albums/img/9/3/2/1249932-70141-37-720.jpg)
So I started applying decals.
First the underside
First the underside
![Album image #90 Album image #90](/albums/img/9/3/5/1249935-70141-62-720.jpg)
Preparing the next tile decal, huge
![Album image #91 Album image #91](/albums/img/9/3/4/1249934-70141-28-720.jpg)
![Album image #92 Album image #92](/albums/img/9/3/6/1249936-70141-67-720.jpg)
Looks nice..
![Album image #93 Album image #93](/albums/img/9/3/8/1249938-70141-63-720.jpg)
![Album image #94 Album image #94](/albums/img/9/3/7/1249937-70141-66-720.jpg)
And surprise!
Almost all those tiles need these little decals, yes you heard me, almost all those tiles... It's white text that NASA numbers its tiles with
Almost all those tiles need these little decals, yes you heard me, almost all those tiles... It's white text that NASA numbers its tiles with
![Album image #95 Album image #95](/albums/img/9/4/0/1249940-70141-67-720.jpg)
To be placed on these tiles
![Album image #96 Album image #96](/albums/img/9/3/9/1249939-70141-17-720.jpg)
Like this..
![Album image #97 Album image #97](/albums/img/9/4/1/1249941-70141-80-720.jpg)
Can you imagine that it took me DAYS to accomplish only half of it? I only applied on places where you see the tiles best, the rest is useless. I was done with it
![Album image #98 Album image #98](/albums/img/9/4/2/1249942-70141-91-720.jpg)
I started to notice with the other decals that they didn't fit the model well.. like the tail
![Album image #99 Album image #99](/albums/img/9/4/3/1249943-70141-53-720.jpg)
...and the nose section..
![Album image #100 Album image #100](/albums/img/9/4/4/1249944-70141-90-720.jpg)
The engine section cost me half a bottle of decal setting solution, the decals just won't fit very well and cracked at edges etc.
![Album image #101 Album image #101](/albums/img/9/4/5/1249945-70141-43-720.jpg)
I was not satisfied. Something was wrong..
![Album image #102 Album image #102](/albums/img/9/4/6/1249946-70141-87-720.jpg)
Ok, back to the carrying construction, let the decals be for now.
I calculated and drilled holes for the aft struts on the fuselage, and it was time for the first 'real' fit of the Shuttle onto the 747!
I added some Tamiya tape to the struts as they're not glued or something.
It looks very impressive
I calculated and drilled holes for the aft struts on the fuselage, and it was time for the first 'real' fit of the Shuttle onto the 747!
I added some Tamiya tape to the struts as they're not glued or something.
It looks very impressive
![Album image #103 Album image #103](/albums/img/9/4/7/1249947-70141-87-720.jpg)
![Album image #104 Album image #104](/albums/img/9/4/9/1249949-70141-31-720.jpg)
![Album image #105 Album image #105](/albums/img/9/4/8/1249948-70141-38-720.jpg)
![Album image #106 Album image #106](/albums/img/9/5/0/1249950-70141-34-720.jpg)
A 1:72 Tiger Moth for scale comparison.
Well, that's a positive thing, the fit of the fragile 3D printed struts looks good.
Back to the decal project.
Well, that's a positive thing, the fit of the fragile 3D printed struts looks good.
Back to the decal project.
![Album image #107 Album image #107](/albums/img/9/5/1/1249951-70141-75-720.jpg)
I started doing research of these decals. And what do you think..
-My wrong; they're made for the Monogram space shuttle, not the Revell.
-The tiles are too big in scale for a 1/72 Shuttle..
-My (BIG) wrong 2: I forgot to FIRST paint the wings and body leading edges grey and black!! O noooo...
-And.. the decals become very fragile after a while. If you don't seal them quickly with varnish after drying, they start to come loose...
Like this
-My wrong; they're made for the Monogram space shuttle, not the Revell.
-The tiles are too big in scale for a 1/72 Shuttle..
-My (BIG) wrong 2: I forgot to FIRST paint the wings and body leading edges grey and black!! O noooo...
-And.. the decals become very fragile after a while. If you don't seal them quickly with varnish after drying, they start to come loose...
Like this
![Album image #108 Album image #108](/albums/img/9/5/2/1249952-70141-22-720.jpg)
I continued very carefully with the nose, because I wanted to apply a first layer of varnish for protection.
But the nose became a mess.. Decals are not meant for this model, so I started applying extra pieces of tile decal. Bad result
But the nose became a mess.. Decals are not meant for this model, so I started applying extra pieces of tile decal. Bad result
![Album image #109 Album image #109](/albums/img/9/5/3/1249953-70141-24-720.jpg)
Look, no leading edge decals on the wings available.. How I'm going to paint that..
![Album image #110 Album image #110](/albums/img/9/5/6/1249956-70141-33-720.jpg)
And the most ugly part of this decal adventure are the black text decals for the white tiles... REALLY out of proportion, and not real
![Album image #111 Album image #111](/albums/img/9/5/5/1249955-70141-33-720.jpg)
![Album image #112 Album image #112](/albums/img/9/5/4/1249954-70141-80-720.jpg)
So I carefully started scratching some of the black text of the white tile decals, to make the text 'thinner'.
Everything went worse.. now I see dust from sanding inside the cockpit windows!!
This was just a setback.
Everything went worse.. now I see dust from sanding inside the cockpit windows!!
This was just a setback.
![Album image #113 Album image #113](/albums/img/9/5/8/1249958-70141-10-720.png)
I want another solution, this is becoming more and more a disaster.
so I searched further on the Internet, and I found another Shuttle tile manufacturer: Steven Jochums from LakeCountrySpacePort.
Brilliant!! A very dedicated man to everything that has to do with space, NASA, Shuttle etc. Very kind and helpful, and, my saviour for this project..
As he prints real decals photo-like, so the real deal!
Those tiles are much better, with a very clear manual and Steven is very helpful in everything. From ordering questions to advice.
So I ordered his decals.
![Album image #114 Album image #114](/albums/img/9/6/0/1249960-70141-12-720.jpg)
With the decals I ordered this kit
![Album image #115 Album image #115](/albums/img/9/5/7/1249957-70141-46-pristine.png)
I also ordered this 3D Shuttle cockpit windows set
![Album image #116 Album image #116](/albums/img/9/5/9/1249959-70141-77-720.jpg)
And now comes an 'Ouch!'-moment..
Take a last look at my old Space Shuttle...
Take a last look at my old Space Shuttle...
![Album image #117 Album image #117](/albums/img/9/6/1/1249961-70141-52-720.jpg)
![Album image #118 Album image #118](/albums/img/9/6/2/1249962-70141-68-720.jpg)
The Piper cub for scale
![Album image #119 Album image #119](/albums/img/9/6/3/1249963-70141-73-720.jpg)
![Album image #120 Album image #120](/albums/img/9/6/4/1249964-70141-71-720.jpg)
![Album image #121 Album image #121](/albums/img/9/6/5/1249965-70141-92-720.jpg)
...because this is the last time you see it with these wrong decals!
![Album image #122 Album image #122](/albums/img/9/6/6/1249966-70141-26-720.jpg)
![Album image #123 Album image #123](/albums/img/9/6/7/1249967-70141-58-720.jpg)
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![Album image #128 Album image #128](/albums/img/9/7/2/1249972-70141-94-720.jpg)
A last photo session, and after that I scratched all the decals off the Shuttle...
And now it's white again
And now it's white again
![Album image #129 Album image #129](/albums/img/9/7/3/1249973-70141-93-720.jpg)
![Album image #130 Album image #130](/albums/img/9/7/4/1249974-70141-15-720.jpg)
Clean again for the next decal job, and now FIRST spraying a grey leading edge to the wings and black edges on nose and tail 😉
![Album image #131 Album image #131](/albums/img/9/7/5/1249975-70141-62-720.jpg)
But back to the 747.
I sanded and filled seems of the 747, until it was smooth as peach skin... at least, I thought.
As the NASA 747 N905NA is a kind of bare metal-like (not as shiny as real bare metal), it is a kind of project to get that American Airlines look. The fuselage is different colours metal, from aluminium to chrome like plating.
To get that look i decided to buy 3 cans of Tamiya gloss black spray, that's the best primer for metal surfaces.
So on a calm day I sprayed the behemoth outside gloss black (Tamiya spray is good quality but smells heavily)
I sanded and filled seems of the 747, until it was smooth as peach skin... at least, I thought.
As the NASA 747 N905NA is a kind of bare metal-like (not as shiny as real bare metal), it is a kind of project to get that American Airlines look. The fuselage is different colours metal, from aluminium to chrome like plating.
To get that look i decided to buy 3 cans of Tamiya gloss black spray, that's the best primer for metal surfaces.
So on a calm day I sprayed the behemoth outside gloss black (Tamiya spray is good quality but smells heavily)
![Album image #132 Album image #132](/albums/img/9/7/7/1249977-70141-44-720.jpg)
![Album image #133 Album image #133](/albums/img/9/7/8/1249978-70141-36-720.jpg)
![Album image #134 Album image #134](/albums/img/9/7/6/1249976-70141-57-720.jpg)
After drying, it was ready for an inspection inside
![Album image #135 Album image #135](/albums/img/9/7/9/1249979-70141-17-720.jpg)
![Album image #136 Album image #136](/albums/img/9/8/0/1249980-70141-66-720.jpg)
![Album image #137 Album image #137](/albums/img/9/8/1/1249981-70141-43-720.jpg)
But, the horror... I sanded way to heavily!!
![Album image #138 Album image #138](/albums/img/9/8/2/1249982-70141-19-720.jpg)
![Album image #139 Album image #139](/albums/img/9/8/3/1249983-70141-64-720.jpg)
So.. back to sanding. Again.
This project is getting frustrating...
So I waited a week or 2, and sanded the 747 3 more times.
And sprayed it gloss black again.
Not every scratch disappeared, but it's almost smooth now. I'm done with sanding this plane.
This project is getting frustrating...
So I waited a week or 2, and sanded the 747 3 more times.
And sprayed it gloss black again.
Not every scratch disappeared, but it's almost smooth now. I'm done with sanding this plane.
![Album image #140 Album image #140](/albums/img/9/8/4/1249984-70141-75-720.jpg)
After a week or 2 later, I found new energy to give this project a fresh try.
Time for metal-looks 🙂!
I bought several different colors of metal spray: Tamiya silver leaf, Tamiya gloss aluminium, Tamiya polished steel and a big spray can gloss aluminium from an unknown brand, but for plastics.
I first tested on several pieces of plastic all kind of layers, and finally I found a nice base American Airlines like coat for the 747.
First gloss black, then gloss aluminium.
Time for metal-looks 🙂!
I bought several different colors of metal spray: Tamiya silver leaf, Tamiya gloss aluminium, Tamiya polished steel and a big spray can gloss aluminium from an unknown brand, but for plastics.
I first tested on several pieces of plastic all kind of layers, and finally I found a nice base American Airlines like coat for the 747.
First gloss black, then gloss aluminium.
![Album image #141 Album image #141](/albums/img/9/8/5/1249985-70141-37-720.jpg)
![Album image #142 Album image #142](/albums/img/9/8/6/1249986-70141-61-720.jpg)
..and finally silver leaf. When it's dry, it looks great
![Album image #143 Album image #143](/albums/img/9/8/7/1249987-70141-96-720.jpg)
The yellow Tamiya tape is for scribing the panel lines, which are visible on the N905NA
![Album image #144 Album image #144](/albums/img/9/8/8/1249988-70141-81-720.jpg)
![Album image #145 Album image #145](/albums/img/9/8/9/1249989-70141-59-720.jpg)
Scribing a lot of long panel line
![Album image #146 Album image #146](/albums/img/9/9/0/1249990-70141-50-720.jpg)
![Album image #147 Album image #147](/albums/img/9/9/1/1249991-70141-42-720.jpg)
Meanwhile I copied the DrawDecal AA striping and carrying construction plates decals on paper, so I can calculate:
-if the decals come in line with my drilled holes for the aft struts
-where some panel lines end according to the blue-white-red striping
-where I can put little marks on the semi gloss metal fuselage, almost no reference points..
I applied the paper-decals to the fuselage
-if the decals come in line with my drilled holes for the aft struts
-where some panel lines end according to the blue-white-red striping
-where I can put little marks on the semi gloss metal fuselage, almost no reference points..
I applied the paper-decals to the fuselage
![Album image #148 Album image #148](/albums/img/9/9/2/1249992-70141-78-720.jpg)
![Album image #149 Album image #149](/albums/img/9/9/3/1249993-70141-97-720.jpg)
![Album image #150 Album image #150](/albums/img/9/9/4/1249994-70141-95-720.jpg)
![Album image #151 Album image #151](/albums/img/9/9/5/1249995-70141-37-720.jpg)
![Album image #152 Album image #152](/albums/img/9/9/6/1249996-70141-23-720.jpg)
![Album image #153 Album image #153](/albums/img/9/9/7/1249997-70141-80-720.jpg)
I wanted to do a test fit with the Shuttle on the 747.
I noticed that the rear struts became 'wobbly', it was not a nice fit in the pre-drilled holes.
Meanwhile, the front strut broke... I forced it a little to hard in the pre-drilled holes.
I decided to strengthen the fragile plastic strut with iron rod, this way it also helps to have better grip on the Shuttle.
Here you see the repaired and strengthened strut:
I noticed that the rear struts became 'wobbly', it was not a nice fit in the pre-drilled holes.
Meanwhile, the front strut broke... I forced it a little to hard in the pre-drilled holes.
I decided to strengthen the fragile plastic strut with iron rod, this way it also helps to have better grip on the Shuttle.
Here you see the repaired and strengthened strut:
![Album image #154 Album image #154](/albums/img/9/9/9/1249999-70141-29-720.jpg)
Also for the back struts, strengthened them.
And what do you think.. the horror..
I placed the Shuttle on the 747. It held quite good. I wanted to check the wobbliness, I reached out to move the Shuttle a little..
And I bumped the Shuttle with my hand. The front strut broke again. on 2 places, i could just catch the Shuttle, but now the struts are a mess. So that's why this project is on hold since 2018..
And what do you think.. the horror..
I placed the Shuttle on the 747. It held quite good. I wanted to check the wobbliness, I reached out to move the Shuttle a little..
And I bumped the Shuttle with my hand. The front strut broke again. on 2 places, i could just catch the Shuttle, but now the struts are a mess. So that's why this project is on hold since 2018..
![Album image #155 Album image #155](/albums/img/9/9/8/1249998-70141-40-720.jpg)
But now, in 2022, I found the energy to give this unique project a retry.
I dusted of the 747, and decided to give the wings, tail and nose cone their grey colors.
I found this revell 747 SCA manual on the internet and use this as a guide for painting.
I dusted of the 747, and decided to give the wings, tail and nose cone their grey colors.
I found this revell 747 SCA manual on the internet and use this as a guide for painting.
![Album image #156 Album image #156](/albums/img/0/0/1/1250001-70141-61-720.jpg)
First I taped the fuselage and engines with plastic bags so I can spray the wings with primer.
![Album image #157 Album image #157](/albums/img/0/0/2/1250002-70141-32-720.jpg)
![Album image #158 Album image #158](/albums/img/0/0/0/1250000-70141-67-720.jpg)
Looks better and smooth.
![Album image #159 Album image #159](/albums/img/0/0/3/1250003-70141-95-720.jpg)
After that I removed the plastic bag part where the strut plates are positioned.
These strut plates are provided with the decal sheet, but I don't want color difference so i decided to paint the wings, tail, plates and nose cone myself.
These strut plates are provided with the decal sheet, but I don't want color difference so i decided to paint the wings, tail, plates and nose cone myself.
![Album image #160 Album image #160](/albums/img/0/0/4/1250004-70141-47-720.jpg)
![Album image #161 Album image #161](/albums/img/0/0/5/1250005-70141-78-720.jpg)
A lot of Tamiya tape is used to mask everything.
![Album image #162 Album image #162](/albums/img/0/0/6/1250006-70141-58-720.jpg)
![Album image #163 Album image #163](/albums/img/0/0/7/1250007-70141-50-720.jpg)
![Album image #164 Album image #164](/albums/img/0/0/8/1250008-70141-57-720.jpg)
![Album image #165 Album image #165](/albums/img/0/0/9/1250009-70141-70-720.jpg)
![Album image #166 Album image #166](/albums/img/0/1/0/1250010-70141-38-720.jpg)
And after spraying it looks good.
![Album image #167 Album image #167](/albums/img/0/1/1/1250011-70141-98-720.jpg)
![Album image #168 Album image #168](/albums/img/1/0/3/1261103-70141-28-720.jpg)
![Album image #169 Album image #169](/albums/img/6/9/8/1359698-70141-10-720.jpg)
Ok, a nice update for my 747 SCA project.
I contacted Chris Rodak from Titan Model Kits, a paradise for the 1;72 exotic rare big scale airliners enthusiasts like me!
I asked him if it's possible to order 1:72 B747-100 flap track fairings, a landing gear, 4 JTD9 engines and a new Shuttle carrier construction.
Chris is a very kind and helpful man, so no problem. Now I can finally make a static 747 model with detailed gear and a better and sturdier carrier construction.
I contacted Chris Rodak from Titan Model Kits, a paradise for the 1;72 exotic rare big scale airliners enthusiasts like me!
I asked him if it's possible to order 1:72 B747-100 flap track fairings, a landing gear, 4 JTD9 engines and a new Shuttle carrier construction.
Chris is a very kind and helpful man, so no problem. Now I can finally make a static 747 model with detailed gear and a better and sturdier carrier construction.
![Album image #170 Album image #170](/albums/img/6/9/9/1359699-70141-18-720.jpg)
Here you can see all the parts. Compliments Chris for the safe and secure package the parts came in, nothing damaged! (see the protective foam on the sharp engine pylons)
![Album image #171 Album image #171](/albums/img/7/0/0/1359700-70141-32-720.jpg)
A much stronger 3D printed carrier construction. Chris added some spare parts 😉
![Album image #172 Album image #172](/albums/img/7/0/1/1359701-70141-96-720.jpg)
The nose wheel bay, gear, wheels and doors
![Album image #173 Album image #173](/albums/img/7/0/2/1359702-70141-80-720.jpg)
And an extra vacformed transparent cockpit windows part! Tempting to make a flightdeck (which will be available later).
For now I'm not sure if I will use it.
For now I'm not sure if I will use it.
![Album image #174 Album image #174](/albums/img/7/0/3/1359703-70141-88-720.jpg)
3D printed JTD9 engines in 1 piece, only the fan blades are a separate part
![Album image #175 Album image #175](/albums/img/7/0/4/1359704-70141-59-720.jpg)
The engines look great, much better and detailed than the ones on the Skyland model.
![Album image #176 Album image #176](/albums/img/7/0/5/1359705-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #177 Album image #177](/albums/img/7/0/6/1359706-70141-77-720.jpg)
The fan blade parts
![Album image #178 Album image #178](/albums/img/7/0/7/1359707-70141-69-720.jpg)
The main gear bays
![Album image #179 Album image #179](/albums/img/7/0/8/1359708-70141-52-720.jpg)
The main gear and wheels
![Album image #180 Album image #180](/albums/img/7/0/9/1359709-70141-34-720.jpg)
And the main gear wheel bay doors. These parts will add some nice detail to my model!
![Album image #181 Album image #181](/albums/img/2/3/9/1662239-70141-22-720.jpg)
I also bought a resin tow tug kit, used for B747's
![Album image #182 Album image #182](/albums/img/2/4/0/1662240-70141-23-720.jpg)
wanted to find out how to fit the gear parts in a hollow inflight desktop model which the 747SCA is; it's a Skyland desktop model for Flight Agencies, so this will be a challenge to give it a strong supported landing gear.
First impression how it roughly looks with a gear.
First impression how it roughly looks with a gear.
![Album image #183 Album image #183](/albums/img/2/4/1/1662241-70141-70-720.jpg)
Before I start cutting and drilling in my fresh painted 747SCA model, I decided to test this first on a heavily wing-damaged 1:72 Skyland KLM 747-400 model which I want to repair some day.
![Album image #184 Album image #184](/albums/img/2/4/2/1662242-70141-74-720.jpg)
![Album image #185 Album image #185](/albums/img/2/4/3/1662243-70141-90-720.jpg)
![Album image #186 Album image #186](/albums/img/2/4/5/1662245-70141-67-720.jpg)
As you can see, extra damage from a tried out landing gear placement will do not much harm to this model...
Also a dry fit here:
Also a dry fit here:
![Album image #187 Album image #187](/albums/img/2/4/6/1662246-70141-91-720.jpg)
There is no reference at all on the smooth fuselage to start outlining gear bays or doors..
So I started with drawing the doors sections in scale 1:72 from drawings I found online, thereby using the 3D printed gear parts.
So I started with drawing the doors sections in scale 1:72 from drawings I found online, thereby using the 3D printed gear parts.
![Album image #188 Album image #188](/albums/img/2/5/1/1662251-70141-33-720.jpg)
![Album image #189 Album image #189](/albums/img/2/4/8/1662248-70141-86-720.jpg)
![Album image #190 Album image #190](/albums/img/2/5/0/1662250-70141-98-720.jpg)
A lot of test fitting
![Album image #191 Album image #191](/albums/img/2/5/2/1662252-70141-50-720.jpg)
![Album image #192 Album image #192](/albums/img/2/4/9/1662249-70141-85-720.jpg)
Now place these on the model and cut the outlines on the fuselage.
![Album image #193 Album image #193](/albums/img/2/4/7/1662247-70141-52-720.jpg)
![Album image #194 Album image #194](/albums/img/2/5/3/1662253-70141-78-720.jpg)
Ok, time to remove the doors.
I did this with cutting and drilling; the doors were not reusable after this but that doesn't matter as Click2Detail provides these doors with the set.
I did this with cutting and drilling; the doors were not reusable after this but that doesn't matter as Click2Detail provides these doors with the set.
![Album image #195 Album image #195](/albums/img/2/5/4/1662254-70141-67-720.jpg)
Surprise! As you can see, there's thick reinforcement plastic in the wing-fuselage section.
Ok, this will take some time to remove..
Ok, this will take some time to remove..
![Album image #196 Album image #196](/albums/img/2/5/5/1662255-70141-90-720.jpg)
Also removing the wing bay doors
![Album image #197 Album image #197](/albums/img/2/5/6/1662256-70141-27-720.jpg)
It starts getting uglier.. this takes rough treatment! I'm a little worried to do this on the SCA 747 later..
![Album image #198 Album image #198](/albums/img/2/5/7/1662257-70141-90-720.jpg)
We need a bigger drill!
![Album image #199 Album image #199](/albums/img/2/5/8/1662258-70141-61-720.jpg)
![Album image #200 Album image #200](/albums/img/2/5/9/1662259-70141-26-720.jpg)
We're getting somewhere. On with the other bay doors
![Album image #201 Album image #201](/albums/img/2/6/6/1662266-70141-61-720.jpg)
Ok, time for the first test fit of the bays.
Note: this took a lot of fitting - sanding - fitting - cutting and sanding -fitting again etc.
Note: this took a lot of fitting - sanding - fitting - cutting and sanding -fitting again etc.
![Album image #202 Album image #202](/albums/img/2/6/5/1662265-70141-22-720.jpg)
Second bay didn't fit.
It takes a special angled movement to get the bay under the wing door opening. With 1 bay no problem, enough space, but adding the second bay isn't so easy.
You can't make the movement because the first bay gets in the way.
So it looks like this:
It takes a special angled movement to get the bay under the wing door opening. With 1 bay no problem, enough space, but adding the second bay isn't so easy.
You can't make the movement because the first bay gets in the way.
So it looks like this:
![Album image #203 Album image #203](/albums/img/2/6/7/1662267-70141-36-720.jpg)
After some research I solved this problem by removing the curved lower bay doors.
Now it fits
Now it fits
![Album image #204 Album image #204](/albums/img/2/6/8/1662268-70141-99-720.jpg)
![Album image #205 Album image #205](/albums/img/2/6/9/1662269-70141-77-720.jpg)
Test fit the gear in the bays
![Album image #206 Album image #206](/albums/img/2/6/4/1662264-70141-49-720.jpg)
Great! But what a mess, I hope my SCA 747 survives this treatment..
Should have been better to do this in first place, before painting etc.
But this gear wasn't available 5 years ago.
Ok, for the nose gear bay the same treatment.
Also reinforcement to be found here, this time for the fuselage strength
Should have been better to do this in first place, before painting etc.
But this gear wasn't available 5 years ago.
Ok, for the nose gear bay the same treatment.
Also reinforcement to be found here, this time for the fuselage strength
![Album image #207 Album image #207](/albums/img/2/7/3/1662273-70141-73-720.jpg)
During all this I saw that the fuselage line wasn't exactly in the middle! So I stopped cutting and measured the exact middle of the fuselage first with a flexible steel wire
![Album image #208 Album image #208](/albums/img/2/7/4/1662274-70141-50-720.jpg)
After that continued drilling the outlines, and cutting the doors afterwards
![Album image #209 Album image #209](/albums/img/2/7/5/1662275-70141-79-720.jpg)
Test fit of the nose wheel bay
![Album image #210 Album image #210](/albums/img/2/7/6/1662276-70141-38-720.jpg)
With gear
![Album image #211 Album image #211](/albums/img/2/7/7/1662277-70141-85-720.jpg)
![Album image #212 Album image #212](/albums/img/2/7/8/1662278-70141-43-720.jpg)
Mmm... Nose gear seems too big. But I have no other reference to measure this.. We will see.
Now test fit with all gears
Now test fit with all gears
![Album image #213 Album image #213](/albums/img/2/7/1/1662271-70141-94-720.jpg)
Looks good. A 1:72 figure for scale
![Album image #214 Album image #214](/albums/img/2/7/2/1662272-70141-18-720.jpg)
And the inevitable Piper Cub for scale
![Album image #215 Album image #215](/albums/img/2/7/0/1662270-70141-62-720.jpg)
What a massive gear this is in real life.
Last very careful test fit on it's wheels (nose gear wouldn't stay in place)
Last very careful test fit on it's wheels (nose gear wouldn't stay in place)
![Album image #216 Album image #216](/albums/img/2/8/1/1662281-70141-79-720.jpg)
About the Space Shuttle.. it has had some setbacks in this project, like bad decals, bad fitting parts, problems with the fit on the 747 etc.
A scratchbuilt tail cone, lot's of sanding etc.
So, time for the ultimate disaster... it 'crashed' from my workbench on the ground due to one moment of inattention, my fault.
My desk chair turned as I stood up, and bumped the Columbia to the ground.
This is the damage:
A scratchbuilt tail cone, lot's of sanding etc.
So, time for the ultimate disaster... it 'crashed' from my workbench on the ground due to one moment of inattention, my fault.
My desk chair turned as I stood up, and bumped the Columbia to the ground.
This is the damage:
![Album image #217 Album image #217](/albums/img/2/7/9/1662279-70141-37-720.jpg)
..and the worst, my painstakingly fabricated tail cone shattered.
![Album image #218 Album image #218](/albums/img/2/8/0/1662280-70141-60-720.jpg)
![Album image #219 Album image #219](/albums/img/2/8/5/1662285-70141-24-720.jpg)
![Album image #220 Album image #220](/albums/img/2/8/6/1662286-70141-33-720.jpg)
![Album image #221 Album image #221](/albums/img/2/8/7/1662287-70141-98-720.jpg)
![Album image #222 Album image #222](/albums/img/2/8/8/1662288-70141-60-720.jpg)
The tail cone is beyond repair; it consisted of all the small pieces of sheet styrene, al lot of filler and about 5 layers of white lacquer.
![Album image #223 Album image #223](/albums/img/2/8/4/1662284-70141-24-720.png)
So...
After 5 minutes of silence, I decided to take a drastic step in this project: a complete replacement of this Shuttle.
Why? Several reasons:
-I have a new Monogram Shuttle kit, which is more realistic shaped. The Revell Shuttle is lesser quality, raised and too big shaped tiles, and heavy!
-The tail cone was not perfect, it had bumps and it was not smooth. And a little too big..
-The already drilled holes in the upper fuselage of the 747 (for the struts) didn't align straight with the Shuttle strut-holes. A big problem!
-The Monogram Shuttle is a new kit, so a fresh start is possible for paint job + decals, and the kit is light weight which is a big advantage!
After 5 minutes of silence, I decided to take a drastic step in this project: a complete replacement of this Shuttle.
Why? Several reasons:
-I have a new Monogram Shuttle kit, which is more realistic shaped. The Revell Shuttle is lesser quality, raised and too big shaped tiles, and heavy!
-The tail cone was not perfect, it had bumps and it was not smooth. And a little too big..
-The already drilled holes in the upper fuselage of the 747 (for the struts) didn't align straight with the Shuttle strut-holes. A big problem!
-The Monogram Shuttle is a new kit, so a fresh start is possible for paint job + decals, and the kit is light weight which is a big advantage!
![Album image #224 Album image #224](/albums/img/2/8/2/1662282-70141-21-720.png)
So I must use the Accurate Model Parts flight deck windows, no problem
I also need a new tail cone... and no, I'm not going to scratch build a new cone.
This time I will buy it, from Click2Detail / Titan Model Kits. A correct sized, ready to use 3D printed tail cone.
I contacted Chris from Titan Model Kits and ordered the tail cone, and... 2 Boeing 747-100 flightdecks +2 APU exhausts.
One for the 747 SCA + one for the 1:72 B747SP Sofia project
I also need a new tail cone... and no, I'm not going to scratch build a new cone.
This time I will buy it, from Click2Detail / Titan Model Kits. A correct sized, ready to use 3D printed tail cone.
I contacted Chris from Titan Model Kits and ordered the tail cone, and... 2 Boeing 747-100 flightdecks +2 APU exhausts.
One for the 747 SCA + one for the 1:72 B747SP Sofia project
![Album image #225 Album image #225](/albums/img/2/8/3/1662283-70141-29-720.png)
![Album image #226 Album image #226](/albums/img/2/8/9/1662289-70141-51-720.jpg)
2 Weeks later the package arrived, with the tail cone
![Album image #227 Album image #227](/albums/img/2/9/0/1662290-70141-85-720.jpg)
![Album image #228 Album image #228](/albums/img/2/9/1/1662291-70141-81-720.jpg)
![Album image #229 Album image #229](/albums/img/2/9/5/1662295-70141-36-720.jpg)
![Album image #230 Album image #230](/albums/img/3/1/6/1662316-70141-49-720.jpg)
The flightdeck
![Album image #231 Album image #231](/albums/img/3/1/7/1662317-70141-33-720.jpg)
And the APU exhaust
![Album image #232 Album image #232](/albums/img/2/9/6/1662296-70141-80-720.jpg)
I first thought: why not scrap the old tail cone from the Revell shuttle, and see if the new cone fits smoothly? Just try, who knows.
First a dry fit, pushed it carefully over the damaged cone
First a dry fit, pushed it carefully over the damaged cone
![Album image #233 Album image #233](/albums/img/3/1/5/1662315-70141-91-720.jpg)
Mm.. I will give it a try, but you can see quite different shapes so a smooth fit will be a challenge.
![Album image #234 Album image #234](/albums/img/3/0/0/1662300-70141-11-720.jpg)
I started removing the old cone
![Album image #235 Album image #235](/albums/img/3/0/4/1662304-70141-61-720.jpg)
![Album image #236 Album image #236](/albums/img/3/0/5/1662305-70141-82-720.jpg)
..and we're back where it once started.
As I don't want to start scratch building again, I went back to my initial plan of using the new Monogram Shuttle kit (which has new and correct engine covers).
Bye bye Revell Shuttle, you've done great but time for replacement.
As I don't want to start scratch building again, I went back to my initial plan of using the new Monogram Shuttle kit (which has new and correct engine covers).
Bye bye Revell Shuttle, you've done great but time for replacement.
![Album image #237 Album image #237](/albums/img/3/2/0/1662320-70141-88-720.jpg)
Now all the kit parts are still fresh and easy to correct, I decided to start with the windows from the Monogram Shuttle.
I don't know if I already earlier showed the pictures of me preparing the new Accurate Window parts for the Revell Shuttle, as this topic is starting to get huge with everything I did until now.
So to be sure, this is the set:
I don't know if I already earlier showed the pictures of me preparing the new Accurate Window parts for the Revell Shuttle, as this topic is starting to get huge with everything I did until now.
So to be sure, this is the set:
![Album image #238 Album image #238](/albums/img/3/2/2/1662322-70141-97-720.jpg)
I don't have a photo from the untouched new set, but it consists of thin sheet styrene pre-cut windows + frames:
![Album image #239 Album image #239](/albums/img/3/1/9/1662319-70141-38-720.jpg)
3 Right sides and 3 left sides, and the upper fuselage flight deck windows.
The idea is to pre-paint and cut the left and right frames, and glue these in layers so you get realistic thick Shuttle windows
The idea is to pre-paint and cut the left and right frames, and glue these in layers so you get realistic thick Shuttle windows
![Album image #240 Album image #240](/albums/img/3/1/8/1662318-70141-55-720.jpg)
![Album image #241 Album image #241](/albums/img/3/2/6/1662326-70141-55-720.jpg)
This time I will also use the new more realistic Shuttle tile decal sets, which has a correct sized and placed windows-frame decal.
So I'm going to use a copy of this decal as an example for the correct placement on the kit
So I'm going to use a copy of this decal as an example for the correct placement on the kit
![Album image #242 Album image #242](/albums/img/3/2/1/1662321-70141-17-720.jpg)
![Album image #243 Album image #243](/albums/img/3/2/8/1662328-70141-52-720.jpg)
I sprayed most of the frames black, with some grey and red parts.
As I'm making the first Columbia ferry flight, the windows then had grey and red parts in it.
After that I bended the parts in angles to match the shape of the nose
As I'm making the first Columbia ferry flight, the windows then had grey and red parts in it.
After that I bended the parts in angles to match the shape of the nose
![Album image #244 Album image #244](/albums/img/3/2/7/1662327-70141-27-720.jpg)
It gives a feeling of depth, much more realistic than the stock Monogram windows. It's gonna be a challenge to join these parts together without glue stains..
![Album image #245 Album image #245](/albums/img/3/2/9/1662329-70141-21-720.jpg)
Dry fit all the parts together (5 layers thick)
![Album image #246 Album image #246](/albums/img/3/3/0/1662330-70141-83-720.jpg)
This will definitely add more realism to the Shuttle!
![Album image #247 Album image #247](/albums/img/3/3/1/1662331-70141-60-720.jpg)
Back to the Monogram kit.
I first filled the ugly wrong shaped kit windows with a piece of sheet styrene, filled and sanded it smooth so the Shuttle-nose has a closed smooth surface to start with.
Then I used part of the stencil mask to trace the correct windshield outlines on the surface
I first filled the ugly wrong shaped kit windows with a piece of sheet styrene, filled and sanded it smooth so the Shuttle-nose has a closed smooth surface to start with.
Then I used part of the stencil mask to trace the correct windshield outlines on the surface
![Album image #248 Album image #248](/albums/img/3/3/3/1662333-70141-32-720.jpg)
![Album image #249 Album image #249](/albums/img/3/3/2/1662332-70141-98-720.jpg)
Look at the old window outlines... You did a terrible job with this part of the kit Monogram!
![Album image #250 Album image #250](/albums/img/3/4/2/1662342-70141-41-720.jpg)
I used NASA-images which I found online, and tried to get the correct angle and place. Took me some time, but I think this comes really close to the original
![Album image #251 Album image #251](/albums/img/3/4/1/1662341-70141-82-720.jpg)
![Album image #252 Album image #252](/albums/img/3/4/0/1662340-70141-24-720.jpg)
![Album image #253 Album image #253](/albums/img/3/4/3/1662343-70141-42-720.jpg)
![Album image #254 Album image #254](/albums/img/3/5/3/1662353-70141-98-720.jpg)
After this, I marked the window frame outline with a pencil so I know exactly what part to remove.
![Album image #255 Album image #255](/albums/img/3/5/4/1662354-70141-45-720.jpg)
I started drilling holes on the outlines
![Album image #256 Album image #256](/albums/img/3/4/9/1662349-70141-99-720.jpg)
After drilling 3 holes I needed to remove the molten plastic on the drill, so it took some time..
![Album image #257 Album image #257](/albums/img/3/4/5/1662345-70141-99-720.jpg)
Both parts removed:
![Album image #258 Album image #258](/albums/img/3/4/6/1662346-70141-60-720.jpg)
Sanding the edges smooth
![Album image #259 Album image #259](/albums/img/3/4/4/1662344-70141-23-720.jpg)
And test fitting.
Well, it's starting to look like something. Still a long way to go, I'll keep you updated!
Well, it's starting to look like something. Still a long way to go, I'll keep you updated!
![Album image #260 Album image #260](/albums/img/0/7/6/1724076-70141-36-720.jpg)
Test fit in the Shuttle
![Album image #261 Album image #261](/albums/img/0/7/7/1724077-70141-28-720.jpg)
Time to join the window parts. I used Micro Crystal Clear (you can also fabricate 1:144 airliner windows with this product).
I first clamped the parts together and then added Crystal Clear on all the edges.
I first clamped the parts together and then added Crystal Clear on all the edges.
![Album image #262 Album image #262](/albums/img/0/7/8/1724078-70141-64-720.jpg)
![Album image #263 Album image #263](/albums/img/0/8/0/1724080-70141-65-720.jpg)
Time for the flightdeck upper windows, same procedure.
![Album image #264 Album image #264](/albums/img/0/7/9/1724079-70141-70-720.jpg)
![Album image #265 Album image #265](/albums/img/0/8/1/1724081-70141-61-720.jpg)
![Album image #266 Album image #266](/albums/img/0/8/3/1724083-70141-11-720.jpg)
Next an important issue: the correct placement of the Shuttle carriage construction.
The Monogram Shuttle doesn't have pre-scribed attachment points, so I had to position them correctly myself.
The Revell Shuttle has pre-scribed attachment points
The Monogram Shuttle doesn't have pre-scribed attachment points, so I had to position them correctly myself.
The Revell Shuttle has pre-scribed attachment points
![Album image #267 Album image #267](/albums/img/0/8/5/1724085-70141-71-720.jpg)
I used the wrong points on the Revell model, the correct position is where the arrows point to
![Album image #268 Album image #268](/albums/img/0/8/2/1724082-70141-74-720.jpg)
I used the copy of the decal as guideline; this way I know the decals with fit the positions later..
![Album image #269 Album image #269](/albums/img/0/8/4/1724084-70141-77-720.jpg)
![Album image #270 Album image #270](/albums/img/0/8/7/1724087-70141-57-720.jpg)
I measured the diameter of the struts for the attachment points.
![Album image #271 Album image #271](/albums/img/0/8/6/1724086-70141-26-720.jpg)
..and drew them on the Shuttle.
![Album image #272 Album image #272](/albums/img/0/8/9/1724089-70141-22-720.jpg)
Drilled the holes and a dry fit of the struts
![Album image #273 Album image #273](/albums/img/0/8/8/1724088-70141-45-720.jpg)
Looks good. The only thing is... now the already drilled holes in the 747 don't match these positions anymore. Well, that can be corrected later.
![Album image #274 Album image #274](/albums/img/0/9/1/1724091-70141-62-720.jpg)
About the attachment of the Shuttle on the 747 model:
I drilled 1mm holes in the struts and put 1mm steel rod in them.
I glued flexible sturdy rubber 'caps' over the attachment point-holes, so these 1mm rods pierce through them when the Shuttle is placed on the 747.
This way the steel pins 'fasten' the Shuttle on the 747, instead of loose balancing it.
Here you see how it works.
I drilled 1mm holes in the struts and put 1mm steel rod in them.
I glued flexible sturdy rubber 'caps' over the attachment point-holes, so these 1mm rods pierce through them when the Shuttle is placed on the 747.
This way the steel pins 'fasten' the Shuttle on the 747, instead of loose balancing it.
Here you see how it works.
![Album image #275 Album image #275](/albums/img/0/9/0/1724090-70141-39-720.jpg)
![Album image #276 Album image #276](/albums/img/0/9/2/1724092-70141-50-720.jpg)
It needs some delicate force to get the rods through these caps, and this way I can attach and detach the Shuttle to and from the 747 (for transport).
![Album image #277 Album image #277](/albums/img/0/9/5/1724095-70141-47-720.jpg)
My goal is to make a lightweight smooth Shuttle, as less weight as possible because this will be a heavy model. And last time the Shuttle fell off the 747 because of the weight and fragile struts.
The Monogram Shuttle may look more realistic, but it's a very bad fitting model.. Huge gaps everywhere, warped parts and lot's of filler and sanding needed.
First the cargo bay hatches. Totally out of scale hinges which will have to be removed.
The Monogram Shuttle may look more realistic, but it's a very bad fitting model.. Huge gaps everywhere, warped parts and lot's of filler and sanding needed.
First the cargo bay hatches. Totally out of scale hinges which will have to be removed.
![Album image #278 Album image #278](/albums/img/0/9/3/1724093-70141-52-720.jpg)
..and the fuselage was warped so the hatches didn't fit. I made extra edges from sheet styrene strips so gaps are 'covered'. This way I can add filler later easier.
![Album image #279 Album image #279](/albums/img/0/9/4/1724094-70141-95-720.jpg)
Also fabricated styrene strips for the fuselage halves.
![Album image #280 Album image #280](/albums/img/0/9/7/1724097-70141-64-720.jpg)
A dry fit of the fuselage halves, the styrene strips will add strength to the Shuttle as it will be mostly hollow.
I also glued the windows in the fuselage halves.
I also glued the windows in the fuselage halves.
![Album image #281 Album image #281](/albums/img/0/9/6/1724096-70141-55-720.jpg)
With the dry fit of the windows I noticed that I need to install a (detailed) flightdeck, as it will be clearly visible through these windows.
At first I intended to skip the flightdeck (less weight) but now I need it anyway.
I searched the parts bags but only found 1 seat..?
And it's a unique seat, so a search for the other one in the spares box wasn't helping..
At first I intended to skip the flightdeck (less weight) but now I need it anyway.
I searched the parts bags but only found 1 seat..?
And it's a unique seat, so a search for the other one in the spares box wasn't helping..
![Album image #282 Album image #282](/albums/img/0/9/8/1724098-70141-13-720.jpg)
I finally decided to fabricate 2 new seats to avoid differences.
I took 2 old Revell F-15 ejection seats from the spares box, and with 2 added pylon-parts as yokes on a styrene plate I made these seats.
I took 2 old Revell F-15 ejection seats from the spares box, and with 2 added pylon-parts as yokes on a styrene plate I made these seats.
![Album image #283 Album image #283](/albums/img/0/9/9/1724099-70141-73-720.jpg)
Looks good enough.
And what do you think...
I finally found the missing other seat, it was stuck in one of the engine parts in the box. So problem solved!
And what do you think...
I finally found the missing other seat, it was stuck in one of the engine parts in the box. So problem solved!
![Album image #284 Album image #284](/albums/img/1/0/0/1724100-70141-94-720.jpg)
I painted the original seats and placed them in the cockpit.
![Album image #285 Album image #285](/albums/img/1/0/1/1724101-70141-48-720.jpg)
The 'instrument panel' decals are all kinds of spare decals, to give the flightdeck a cockpit look.
![Album image #286 Album image #286](/albums/img/1/0/2/1724102-70141-42-720.jpg)
Time to install the flightdeck.
As it 'floats' up in the fuselage due to removal of unnecessary parts, I constructed supports from styrene strip and tube.
This way the flightdeck can't come loose once the fuselage is closed.
As it 'floats' up in the fuselage due to removal of unnecessary parts, I constructed supports from styrene strip and tube.
This way the flightdeck can't come loose once the fuselage is closed.
![Album image #287 Album image #287](/albums/img/1/0/3/1724103-70141-99-720.jpg)
Ok, last check for sanding dust (I had dust on the inside of the windows in the first Shuttle); everything ok so I joined the fuselage halves together.
Time for filler and sanding.
Time for filler and sanding.
![Album image #288 Album image #288](/albums/img/1/0/4/1724104-70141-39-720.jpg)
Here you can see the warp in the fuselage, and the added styrene strips on the edges of the cargo bays.
![Album image #289 Album image #289](/albums/img/1/0/5/1724105-70141-48-720.jpg)
Attaching the cargo bay doors.
![Album image #290 Album image #290](/albums/img/1/0/6/1724106-70141-36-720.jpg)
I noticed that the thin fuselage halves were very flexible without an inserted (heavy and unnecessary) cargo bay, so I took styrene tube and made supports to make the fuselage sturdier.
![Album image #291 Album image #291](/albums/img/1/0/7/1724107-70141-32-720.jpg)
Cargo bay doors attached, fuselage is closed.
![Album image #292 Album image #292](/albums/img/1/0/8/1724108-70141-86-720.jpg)
The tailcone.
The 3D printed tailcone is designed for the Revell Shuttle. And only for the Revell Shuttle... I tried and tried to make it somehow fit on the Monogram Shuttle, but no way.
In short: the backend of the Monogram Shuttle is wider in every angle, so the cone doesn't fit the sides. It fits in the backend instead of to the backend.
Next problem is the fit of the engine covers.
The shape of the Monogram covers is different, so the cone overall is a no go this way.
Time to find a solution..
I decided to give it a try to fit the Revell Shuttle backend to the Monogram Shuttle.
Sounds strange, but I saw no other option.
I took the saw and started to cut the angled upper tail section from the Revell Shuttle.
The 3D printed tailcone is designed for the Revell Shuttle. And only for the Revell Shuttle... I tried and tried to make it somehow fit on the Monogram Shuttle, but no way.
In short: the backend of the Monogram Shuttle is wider in every angle, so the cone doesn't fit the sides. It fits in the backend instead of to the backend.
Next problem is the fit of the engine covers.
The shape of the Monogram covers is different, so the cone overall is a no go this way.
Time to find a solution..
I decided to give it a try to fit the Revell Shuttle backend to the Monogram Shuttle.
Sounds strange, but I saw no other option.
I took the saw and started to cut the angled upper tail section from the Revell Shuttle.
![Album image #293 Album image #293](/albums/img/1/0/9/1724109-70141-45-720.jpg)
![Album image #294 Album image #294](/albums/img/1/1/0/1724110-70141-92-720.jpg)
I also cut off the same upper tail part from the Monogram Shuttle..
![Album image #295 Album image #295](/albums/img/1/1/2/1724112-70141-25-720.jpg)
..and attached the Revell tail to the Monogram Shuttle.
Now the backend of the Monogram Shuttle is 'forced' in the right Revell-backend shape.
Now the backend of the Monogram Shuttle is 'forced' in the right Revell-backend shape.
![Album image #296 Album image #296](/albums/img/1/1/4/1724114-70141-11-720.jpg)
Not completely perfect, so I made a joint between cone and fuselage side.
![Album image #297 Album image #297](/albums/img/1/1/7/1724117-70141-56-720.jpg)
![Album image #298 Album image #298](/albums/img/1/1/3/1724113-70141-85-720.jpg)
This way the cone is always perfect fitted to the fuselage sides.
![Album image #299 Album image #299](/albums/img/1/1/5/1724115-70141-29-720.jpg)
![Album image #300 Album image #300](/albums/img/1/1/1/1724111-70141-59-720.jpg)
Now the engine covers issue.
I need new Revell engine covers, as the covers on the damaged Revell Shuttle were shortened to adjust to the scratchbuild cone.
So I ordered new Revell engine covers from Revell.
Here you can see the difference:
-above the Monogram covers
-second the new Revell covers
-third the old adjusted covers (too short).
I need new Revell engine covers, as the covers on the damaged Revell Shuttle were shortened to adjust to the scratchbuild cone.
So I ordered new Revell engine covers from Revell.
Here you can see the difference:
-above the Monogram covers
-second the new Revell covers
-third the old adjusted covers (too short).
![Album image #301 Album image #301](/albums/img/1/1/6/1724116-70141-38-720.jpg)
These fit almost perfectly; the gap you see is not a problem, as the cone is flexible and adjustable. With a little help from pieces styrene and superglue, everything fits.
![Album image #302 Album image #302](/albums/img/1/1/8/1724118-70141-11-720.jpg)
For a complete easier fit of the cone I attached the covers to the cone first.
It's easier to first fill and sanding the curved covers to the cone, and after that sanding the connection to the fuselage.
It's easier to first fill and sanding the curved covers to the cone, and after that sanding the connection to the fuselage.
![Album image #303 Album image #303](/albums/img/1/1/9/1724119-70141-88-720.jpg)
Next the engine-'flap' on the backend. This doesn't fit..
![Album image #304 Album image #304](/albums/img/1/2/1/1724121-70141-19-720.jpg)
So I scratch built a new one.
![Album image #305 Album image #305](/albums/img/1/2/2/1724122-70141-80-720.jpg)
![Album image #306 Album image #306](/albums/img/1/2/0/1724120-70141-75-720.jpg)
![Album image #307 Album image #307](/albums/img/1/2/3/1724123-70141-88-720.jpg)
Ready for attachment.. But after some dry fitting I noticed that the Revell-tail was obstructing the seams from the upper side of the cone, which I need to fill and sand for a smooth finish.
Also the tail was already painted, and heavy.
So I decided to cut off the Revell tail, fill and sand everything smooth and afterwards I will use the lighter and new Monogram tail.
Also the tail was already painted, and heavy.
So I decided to cut off the Revell tail, fill and sand everything smooth and afterwards I will use the lighter and new Monogram tail.
![Album image #308 Album image #308](/albums/img/1/2/4/1724124-70141-58-720.jpg)
![Album image #309 Album image #309](/albums/img/1/2/6/1724126-70141-17-720.jpg)
So...
Final result.
The old damaged Revell Shuttle with scratchbuilt tailcone weighs 770 grams:
Final result.
The old damaged Revell Shuttle with scratchbuilt tailcone weighs 770 grams:
![Album image #310 Album image #310](/albums/img/1/2/5/1724125-70141-66-720.jpg)
..and the new Monogram Shuttle with tailcone weighs 406 grams(!). A true improvement in comparison to the old Revell Shuttle.
![Album image #311 Album image #311](/albums/img/1/2/7/1724127-70141-97-720.jpg)
Ok, time to leave the Shuttle project for now. The Boeing needs some serious adjustment also, no time to loose.
I used the measures and drawings from the gear experiment on the 1:72 KLM 747 earlier in this blog, and drew the outlines for the nose- and main gear bays.
I used the measures and drawings from the gear experiment on the 1:72 KLM 747 earlier in this blog, and drew the outlines for the nose- and main gear bays.
![Album image #312 Album image #312](/albums/img/1/2/8/1724128-70141-66-720.jpg)
![Album image #313 Album image #313](/albums/img/1/2/9/1724129-70141-89-720.jpg)
I used the fine blade saw to cut out the complete main gear area part.
![Album image #314 Album image #314](/albums/img/1/3/0/1724130-70141-76-720.jpg)
![Album image #315 Album image #315](/albums/img/1/3/1/1724131-70141-68-720.jpg)
![Album image #316 Album image #316](/albums/img/1/3/2/1724132-70141-49-720.jpg)
Then dry fitting, sanding again etc.
First the basic fit of the bays, later I will add side walls to the bays.
First the basic fit of the bays, later I will add side walls to the bays.
![Album image #317 Album image #317](/albums/img/1/3/3/1724133-70141-85-720.jpg)
Time to test the gear height and fit.
![Album image #318 Album image #318](/albums/img/1/3/8/1724138-70141-95-720.jpg)
First time that the B747SCA sits on it's wheels!
![Album image #319 Album image #319](/albums/img/1/3/4/1724134-70141-49-720.jpg)
And the inevitable Piper Cub for scale.
![Album image #320 Album image #320](/albums/img/1/3/5/1724135-70141-88-720.jpg)
![Album image #321 Album image #321](/albums/img/1/3/6/1724136-70141-61-720.jpg)
![Album image #322 Album image #322](/albums/img/1/3/7/1724137-70141-42-720.jpg)
But.. This is a serious tail sitter! So I had to place the support under the tail to keep it horizontal.
I need to add a lot of nose weight later on, I hope the gear is strong enough to hold everything.
Enough for now, hope you enjoyed this update.
There's still a lot to be done: install the flightdeck, replace the engines, adding the detailed APU tailcone etc.
I will keep you updated!
I need to add a lot of nose weight later on, I hope the gear is strong enough to hold everything.
Enough for now, hope you enjoyed this update.
There's still a lot to be done: install the flightdeck, replace the engines, adding the detailed APU tailcone etc.
I will keep you updated!
评论
78 2 May 2020, 22:24
![](/profiles/img/21062-463-s.jpg)
They discovered that the tail piece for the shuttle wasn't necessary.
That 747 looks like an old Travel agent display
3 May 2020, 03:32
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
@Gordon: the Shuttle is all white again at this moment.. I removed all decals.
The decals are very bad quality, so I ordered better real-looking tile decals from LakeCountySpacePort in the US.
As I started the Antonov project, my 747 SCA project is on hold at the moment.. I will add more pictures to this album soon, also pictures of the new decals.
3 May 2020, 05:32
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
@Wilky: that's correct! This is a Skyland 1:72 B747-100, and as it was an oldie and quite damaged I decided to give this Queen a fresh new look😉
3 May 2020, 06:20
![](/profiles/img/38120-118-s.jpg)
Following. After this you'll be a decal expert. You clearly have a vision of what you want to achieve and it takes fortitude to do a re-do at the stage you were at. Applause and a tip of the hat to you.
3 May 2020, 09:17
![](/profiles/img/41848-878-s.jpg)
I saw the original at the Cologne/Bonn airport at the time in my youth, still have the (paper) photos somewhere... This looks very much like I remember! Thanks for the trip on memory lane!😉
3 May 2020, 09:24
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
@René: Nice😉 ! I saw the original as a kid, during it's one time visit to Europe. It flew by the sea coast here in Holland on it's way to Heathrow, in 1983 I think.. from that moment on I wanted a model of that plane, so beautiful!
That's why I'm making the bare metal version.
3 May 2020, 09:54
![](/profiles/img/12266-435-s.jpg)
What a fantastic project, really nice👍 The decal for the tiles is truly something!
16 June 2020, 08:35
![](/profiles/img/48665-446-s.jpg)
The An-225 build is quite something already, but this is really an epic story - hope it turns out as good as it deserves and all the effort pays off - seems to be well on track for that 👍
17 June 2020, 12:51
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
Thank you all 🙂 ! I will finish it.. there are some setbacks during the build at the moment so this project is on hold for a while.
19 June 2020, 16:53
![](/profiles/img/23842-243-s.jpg)
Thats big, but an even bigger decal challenge! It will be a great display when completed.
19 June 2020, 18:01
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
@Alec: Thanks 🙂 !
@Nathan: Yes that's true.. I've never applied so many decals on 1 model. And to think that I've removed them all again 3 months ago...
I bought better and more realistic decals for the Shuttle. It will look much better after that 🙂
But this project is on hold at the moment, I want to build the Antonov first.
19 June 2020, 21:42
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
@Skywalker:
It is an old Skyland desktop model. I'm always on the hunt for old damaged Skyland models, because I like to give them an 'overhaul'. Just as my 1:72 Skyland Qantas Boeing 747-100..
I still have 2 747's, 2 DC-10's and 2 A-310's to repair.. But I think I don't have enough time (and space😉😢 for that I think...
19 June 2020, 22:00
![](/profiles/img/21096-573-s.jpg)
amazing project. great to give a second chance (and what a chance!!!) to that 747
19 June 2020, 22:41
![](/profiles/img/45816-678-s.jpg)
Dick, beautiful work Sir, you certainly don't believe in small projects do you..!!? lol. Keep up the great work and looking forward to your next update.
21 June 2022, 06:25
![](/profiles/img/70141-472-s.jpg)
Well Gary, thank you sir but it seems I'm not the only one with an envy for big kits 😉 … I just saw your Lancaster and B-52 projects, very nice! My compliments!
21 June 2022, 08:19
![](/profiles/img/45816-678-s.jpg)
Thank you very much Dick, they are still small fry compared to your work Sir. 😊
22 June 2022, 14:01
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Another great project in God's own scale 👍
I'm only a bit confused by the order of some pictures. But I know, it is sometimes hard to move them (without a block move function).
22 June 2022, 20:48
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Yes, i requested that some time ago. I wanted to move 10 pictures of an album, and place them at the beginning of another with about 100. Moving the 10 is ok, but getting them to go to the top of the album one by one would drive me insane...... (more than already am)
22 June 2022, 20:53
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@Bughunter: yes, I'm struggling with uploading a lot of photo's at once. It seems the photo's are mixed up afterwards … I'm working on it 😉 , it takes some time to get them chronological.
22 June 2022, 21:36
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Thx! Some time ago I reported a problem with sort during upload and it was fixed. But sometimes I have also the feeling it reappears again under some circumstances? SCM Newsfeed
23 June 2022, 05:10
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Great Project! Keep on Running - we all looking forward to see the final out come! 👍
23 June 2022, 05:33
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Thank you for the compliments 😉 !
@Karl: I'm going to make an exact copy of my poster, which was the first ferry flight of the Columbia.
The 'bad tiling' (kevlar body plating) that you see on the Shuttle was caused by fallen off tiles during take off (!)..
The US was in a hurry with the Shuttle test program and they didn't want further delay, so they roughly and hastely glued the tiles onto the Shuttle. During take off it literally rained tiles on the runway, hence the ugly appearance of the Shuttle on the poster.
23 June 2022, 15:45
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Wow... great job so far, Dick!!
Monogram's shuttle is for another project?
23 June 2022, 18:23
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@Cuajete: Yes, that will be another project.. too much kits, too little time 🙂
24 June 2022, 07:06
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It's looking great, Dick. The grey areas on the fuselage look perfect. What a huge project?
10 December 2022, 19:58
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And remember to use the correct stencils: "Note: Black side down" 😉
[img1]
10 December 2022, 22:24
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😊Thanks mates!
@Bughunter: 😜I just checked the decal sheet but unfortunately it's not provided, only the decals for the 747 without the carriage construction.. it would be a very, very tiny decal!
11 December 2022, 16:58
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I'm glad I caught this set of photos today. What a great project and fun idea. Looking forward to following the rest of your work on it.
12 February, 20:24
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@Cuajete: Thanks!
Yes, Click2Detail / Titan Model Kits makes much more sturdy parts now.
This gear is strong, so I have confidence it will hold the 747 + Shuttle... I think 😉
12 February, 22:37
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Wow! They say the Shuttle is a marvel of engineering - but so is this project! Sitting down with popcorn for this one!
13 February, 14:37
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Unbeliveable story - keep going. After all that ups & downs you have deserved to call it done at the end. You have our full attention and respect for the efforts you put into this one 👍.
18 February, 14:41
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Wow! You may have to use metallic wheels for that puppy…. The shuttle is going to further tilt that center of gravity back…
6 May, 16:22
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Damn! As soon as I saw the models you were working with for this project, I knew you had your work cut out for you. I'm happy to see you keeping on it and hope it turns out the way you want it.
6 May, 18:50
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@Bughunter: Indeed… a saga it is 😉!
@CaptGPF: I will use some 'heavy' equipment again, as in my Antonov and Galaxy. I still have some M13 bolts left!
@Cuajete: Thank you, much appreciated 😊!
@Skyhiker: Thanks! I will finish it💪🏻
@Lukasz: Thanks! The Cub has become famous with my big kits as a 'scale-mate'😄, instead of the usual 'banana for scale'..
6 May, 20:51
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@Mike Montgomery: Thank you for the compliment! I think I've passed my earlier 'depression' with this kit when everything went worse. This time I see rapid progress, and better results.
6 May, 20:54
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You must have a lot of space at home with all those big birds in your collection. Nice stuff.
6 May, 21:07
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I read the photo captions like a good novel. Hats off to your tenacity and dedication! I hope you finish this grandiose project.
7 May, 18:05
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@Skyhiker: I don't have enough space for all the kits in my stash.. I will have to make a choice which ones to build.
I just like collecting big 1:72 kits😉
7 May, 18:12
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You could hang a few birds under the ceiling of your garden shed, but then it would be difficult to use as a paint shop 🙂
7 May, 18:36
Album info
Converting an old 1:72 Boeing 747-200 Qantas model into the NASA Boeing 747 SCA with Space Shuttle