Building Projects
Ian Newton's Spitfire mk IX project

The basic model is the Warbirds Spitfire mkIX but I have made a number of enhancements.  I disposed of the vacuum formed radiator housings, wheel housings and wing blisters replacing these with ones I manufactured from balsa.  I also created my own exhaust stubs from brass tube (the model is supposed to need some additional nose weight, so I might as well use the weight to good effect rather than just adding dead weight in the form of lead)  in preference to the vacuum formed ones provided.  At present I am at the point of covering the model using the recommended method of brown paper stuck on using PVA adhesive and then painted in clear dope prior to painting. I have never used this method before but it seems to be effective so far. I will be trying out some of the painting techniques shown us at a previous club night using an airbrush.  This is new territory for me so I hope it goes well!  The model is intended to be (and will be ) equipped with a 52 four stroke, another first for me.

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Initial 'lose fit' assembly after building Fuselage, wings, stabiliser and fin

 Elevator and rudder snakes in place but still no elevator Aileron servo links just visible through the cockpit Cowl, pilot, canopy and elevator tried for fit

There's that pilot again just itching to fly the model!   Vacuum formed plastic wells replaced with own constructed from balsa Retracts raised and checked for operation and fit Nearly all of the covering completed using brown paper and PVA adhesive

Own manufactured wing blisters to replace plastic vacuum formed ones visible Replacement exhaust stubs look purposeful.  The pilot now has some more detail too. Replacement radiators added but still awaiting carburettor intake. Fairings for wings can be seen too. Can't wait to see the motor fitted and a prop sitting up front!

Canons fitted but some armament still to be fitted The model's original flat surfaces of the rudder and elevator have been enhanced to replicate the real plane

Hopefully the plane will be finished soon and I can bring it down to the field - I just hope I have enough courage to fly it once it is finished!

Now you have seen what I have been up to how about sending in some details on your efforts?