I built a 1/24 scale Bf109 several years ago and that was a big aircraft build …I thought. THIS should be a friggin’ monster in comparison to the 109.
Progress is looking great so far.
Peter, that engine looks like you could give it some fuel and it’d start right away! 
Yeah it is realistic Russ. Not sure whether to leave some panels off to show the detail.
Mustang I also did the 109 in 24 scale and they are big kits. Airfix have gone to town with the detail on their most recent kits.
Although there has been a few fit issues, so far it has been a great kit. The engine was really nice to build, no issues at all.
As you’re planning to build it as a Hellcat I, presumably you’ll be converting it to F6F-3 standard, the version Airfix should have released as they had much more colour scheme variety.
I’ll be interested to see how you tackle that as I have a smaller scale F-5 that I need to convert (glossy Sea Blue doesn’t really interest me).
Thanks for pointing out. I didnt see my obvious mistake when I purchased the masks.
Dilemma time…do I build it as an F3 and start cutting holes in the fuselage for the windows? Windscreen is diff too. Or revert to kit decals as an F5…other option is masks for an F3 on an F5 without chopping and hacking…
Whatever the markings I choose I will carry on with the build until I need to make a decision. Mean time engine complete
And all external parts added
And engine bulkhead detail added
Cowling just placed on engine mounts
And engine in place
Pete
4 Likes
Here is the rest of today’s work
Panels on both sides aft of the engine. The others I will leave off. Engine cowl is next
Pete
5 Likes
As Wedge Antilles now famous words spring to mind: “look at the size of that thing!” 
It’s a biggie Russ that’s for sure. Just need to decide what to do regards markings, as paint will be not far away.
Pete
2 Likes
Awesome details!
Pete, did you glue the landing gear in place?
If so, will you have any trouble masking up for painting? (I know I would )
Hi Russ
Yes all the under carriage and lower surfaces are the same colour on this build, so save alot of hassle.
Pete
1 Like
Have you decided where you are going to display the Hellcat?
Lol the back garden springs to mind
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It would probably accumulate some realistic weathering… 
Eventually managed to get some paint on the Hellcat.
I have decided to go with my original plan, even though it wont be a true representation. I can live with the mistake.
The gun loading bays will be open and some of the engine panels will be off once its finished.
Pete
3 Likes
looks awesomee!
Looks great Pete 
Just noticed this thread and what Hellcat you build, Pete.
Well, I in the middle of the same aircraft but it’s half the size of yours. Mine is Eduard. Will follow your blog with interest!
Torsten 