1/48 ICM Messreschmitt Bf-109F-4/R3

[jayjay1964]

Well finally decided to enter my first SIG on ISM and like the topic so here goes. I will be doing the ICM 1/48 Messerschmitt Bf-109F-4/3 reconnaissance version of the famous Luftwaffe fighter. The kit is nicely engraved but has a bit of flash and mould release marks to contend with. Also there are no lining up pins so a bit of care will be required in lining up components. The cockpit is adequate for the scale but I intend to use the Eduard photo etch set for the Bf-109F-2 version of the kit to give a bit more detail in the pit. The decals look ok but have heard mixed reports on ICM decals so to avoid any issue I have bought a set of OWL markings for the kit. Anyway here are the pictures of the unboxing prior to starting.



The box top of the ICM kit



Still sealed bag



Main sprue with fuselage parts



Mostly unused for reconnaissance version so useful spares



Cockpit and engine parts



Wings of kit



Prop and under fuselage radiator cover for this version



Kit instructions



......... and paint scheme



Eduard parts for the build







....and instructions...................





OWL aftermarket decals for the build



Looking forward to making a start, some cleaning up of parts but for an ££8.99 kit don't think that's too bad. Look forward to seeing all the other builds in the SIG

[Jack]

Looks like a great kit, looking forward to seeing all the photo etch in place, Good Luck mate

[jayjay1964]

The kit instructions call for the engine to be tackled first, so will make a change from the usual pit first



kit instructions are shown to illustrate what parts I will be tackling first



The Eduard instructions illustrating what etched parts are to be used with the engine assembly.



Engine parts removed from sprues and some tidying required before assembly

[jayjay1964]

The kit instructions call for the engine to be tackled first, so will make a change from the usual pit first



kit instructions are shown to illustrate what parts I will be tackling first



The Eduard instructions illustrating what etched parts are to be used with the engine assembly.



Engine parts removed from sprues and some tidying required before assembly





Completed assembly of the engine parts

[jayjay1964]

More pics following a non co-operational evening with photobucket.



I now have to prepare the cockpit area for the installation of the etched sidewall details. the raised details on the kit part have to be removed



And now with the area removed..............





First part of the etched detail has now been added and awaits the rest of the detail to be added........



More detail added for the operation of the trim wheel







The cockpit floor prior to removal of detail to be replaced with etch



and with the etched parts applied. Tamiya etched folding pliers are a godsend for the small boxes



And now the etched parts are starting to take shape