The Plastic Aviator: Hasegawa P-51D Mustang "Nancy Lee" 1/48

P-51 D Mustang - a legend

Much has been written about the North American Aviation P-51 Mustang. I can hardly report anything new. For me, the P-51 is one of the most beautiful aircraft from World War II. I was particularly drawn to the many colorful variations of color design. Many pilots gave their machines a special touch.

The role model

A very good site to learn about mission machines is American Air Museum.com

Here you will find a lot of pictures and some additional information. I was able to experience the following there:

'Nancy Lee' Production block number

P-51B-20-NA Manufacturer

North American Markings and paint scheme/livery

Coded E6-A.

Quelle: http://www.americanairmuseum.com

Blue nose, spinner and anti dazzle panel. Yellow nose air scoop. Blue diagonal stripe on tail vertical surfaces. Blue canopy frame.

Quelle: http://www.americanairmuseum.com

A P-51 Mustang (E6-A, serial number 44-72322) nicknamed "Nancy Lee" of the 402nd Fighter Squadron, 307th Fighter Group, 9th Air Force. Handwritten caption on reverse: 'E6-D, 44-72322, "Nancy Lee". 402nd F.S., 307th F.G., 9th Air Force.'

The model - a building with obstacles

I wanted to give the model more details. The good piece has been around for a few years and is no longer up to date. A lot can be done, especially indoors.

Used parts:

Hasegawa P-51D
Aires Wheelwell
True Details Cockpit
Ultracast Propeller
Ultracast Auspuffrohre

I encountered massive problems, especially when installing the Aires landing gear shaft. Bad tongues claim that the Czech "Aires" translates to "does not fit". well, in my case it was more likely that the shaft was intended for the model from Tamiya.

As you know, you grow by your tasks and so I am very happy that it finally worked out.

Cockpit and propeller fit perfectly. I can especially recommend the latter.

Quelle: http://www.americanairmuseum.com

Painting - keep it simple!

There are now many ways to create a natural metal finish. Dozens of shades from different manufacturers can be found on the shelves. However, I wanted to stay true to my line and used Revell Auqa Color colors again. Some panels were treated with filters made of oil paints and thus received their used look.

Lifelike Decals

The decals come from Lifelike. The quality is really excellent. Very well printed and extremely thin. The latter in particular caused me problems and I still have to practice something there.