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In-Box Review
148
P-61 Engine, Cowl, Prop
Vector resin engine, cowl and propeller sets for Monogram 1/48 P-61
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by: Damian Rigby [ AUSSIEREG ]

Vector have consistently produced very high quality aftermarket upgrades for several years now and these sets for the Monogram 1/48 P-61 are certainly no exception. There are 2 sets reviewed here:

VDS48-044 – Engine and cowls set
In this set there are 2 complete engines with the cylinders cast in 2 blocks of 9. The engine blocks are cast individually. The magneto and distributor housings are supplied on their own respective blocks, and one spare of each item is kindly supplied (in case of operator error). The detail is very sharp and there are no signs of flash, bubbles or sink holes. The fit of the cylinders to the engine block is neat and positive, with the assembly of these items in the photos achieved without glue. CA adhesive was used on the other parts. The cowl detail is excellent, with fine recessed panel lines and rivets on the outside, and actuator attachment points on the inside. A photo is shown with the original kit part (black) for comparison. The firewall has superbly cast exhaust stubs and positive fitting for the engine block. The vent screen part has finely detailed panel lines and rivets, and the screen and protection plate are a huge improvement on the kit detail. Some surgery will be required on the kit to replace these parts, but it looks to be quite straightforward. The instruction sheet is simple but very clear and easy to follow, showing wiring detail as well as cutting locations for the removal of kit parts. You will need to source some wire to use as push-rod covers for the cylinders and cowl flap actuators, and for ignition wiring.

VDS48-045 – Propellers and Spinners
This set contains 2 spinners on separate cast blocks, and 8 blades contained on 2 blocks of 4 each. Once again the detail is very sharp and there are no signs of flash, bubbles or sink holes. No instruction sheet is required. The location pin for connecting the blades to the spinner is quite large, but the fit is loose and you will need to take your time in ensuring that the pitch is even on all 4 blades. In the accompanying photo you can see that one of the blades in my supplied set has a distinct bow in it. I cut this blade from the block and warmed it gently with a hairdryer, then let it cool with a small paint jar sitting on it, and it straightened up nicely. I suspect that this bowing occurred in transit as the other set was fine.

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SUMMARY
Highs: Beautiful detail, excellent fit of engine parts, clear and concise instruction sheet, simple assembly.
Lows: Loose fit of blades to spinners, care must be taken to align pitch of blades.
Verdict: Modelers with average skill can greatly improve the classic Monogram 1/48 P-61 using these sets.
Percentage Rating
90%
  Scale: 1:48
  PUBLISHED: Jan 05, 2012
  NATIONALITY: United States
NETWORK-WIDE AVERAGE RATINGS
  THIS REVIEWER: 89.83%
  MAKER/PUBLISHER: 93.13%

Our Thanks to Vector!
This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.

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About Damian Rigby (AussieReg)
FROM: VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA

Born 1967. Bachelor of Applied Science, Chemistry and Aquatic Biology, currently working as Technical Sales in water treatment for heating and cooling systems and process water. 6 children, Jessica, Lola, Joshua, Liam, Darcy and Evie. Other hobbies are guitars, fishing and woodwork. Built model t...

Copyright ©2021 text by Damian Rigby [ AUSSIEREG ]. Images also by copyright holder unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AeroScale. All rights reserved.



Comments

Thanks for making this one "live" Rowan. I can't wait to get hold of the clear parts set as well now, and with the PE sets I already have I can see a superdetailed Widow in my not-too-distant future ! Cheers, D
JAN 05, 2012 - 12:04 PM
   
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