F4 Phantom Makeover

[jetfool]

Went ahead and installed some 3d parts before applying poly-acrylic. Also figuring how I want to mount and operate the tailhook. Nothing is glued just assembled and put in position to visualize how to do it.
That's all tonight, Rex

[Elbee]

jetfool

That looks sooooo good.

Best, LB

[kallend]

Going to modify and repaint my new 6s F4 Phantom into the Sundowners scheme. I have several 3d parts to add for more scale version.



Best Regards, Rex

Nice 3D parts. Did you design them?

[jetfool]

Thanks Guys.

Kallend- n0 I did not design them. Cockpit originally started as the motion rc with a few additional pieces; exhaust I believe is RC Geeks. the other parts were developed by a good friend. Really adds a better scale look.
In my dream/nightmare last night I figured a way to install the tailhook servo and have it hidden from view. the servo wire will go into the rudd./elev. channel, will need to remove EDF unit to get servo wire underneath it. This morning before any cutting of foam I layed up an epoxy hatch to cover servo area. Just scrap 3/4 oz. cloth (6 layers) doesn't need to be heavy.While this is hardening I will go to Home Depot and get my paint. Later,Rex

[jetfool]

After a long day I have got the servo ready to place in its position. Used a 3' X 1/2" dia. alum tube to drill a hole straight up to the rud/ele wire area to run servo lead to rec., slow and tedious to get it straight. ready to make control horn on the hook.
Took my M&M Fed. color to Home Depot, to my surprise they had all the FS# in their paint computer, didn't take long to-do.

[Elbee]

jetfool

Rex, Outstanding work, Sir. Best, LB

[jetfool]

Elbee,
Looking at installing a nose gear hyd. sway bar, I have one on my JHH F4 and it works and looks good. Thought it might be something on your next F4. I enclose some pic of th4 real hyd. arm. Rex

[jetfool]

Finally ready to glue the tailhook parts in. Drilled holes in the mounting bracket and using toothpicks for better support. Servo glued in with the glue that came with the model and can be cut out easily if needed in the future. Have spent most of the day on this.
Best Regards, Rex

[jetfool]

Used round file to provide clearance under servo arm



Clearance hole for pushrod

[Elbee]

Rex, Which part are you referring?

Scissor link or strut or what?

Best, LB

[jetfool]

Elbee,
The upper strut in your square box. It is painted red on the real plane and shows up when plane is taxing or parked. On my JHH F4 I used ball joints and sliding alum. tubes. Just a scale item I will try on this one.
I took a video of the tailhook working last night w/ my phone but can't get it to download.
But a successful day yesterday and Tailhook looks awesome lowering and raising.

Did you put a re-fueling probe on yours? Just thinking out loud.
Best Regards, Rex

[Evan D]

I don't remember any parts being red on the aircraft I worked on. Air Force maybe?

[Elbee]

Rex,

Is this the reference photo you are using?

Could be a CAG A/C?

Looks cool.

I've not seen the damper painted red on Air Force Phantoms that I recall.

Best, LB

[jetfool]

Yes, just took it for granted that all were that way. I will check my Documentation on the version I'm doing. Thanks Evan
I made a scale gear for my JHH F4 (similar to R/C Crafters) years ago and may machine a set for this one for the Toledo show. Not sure yet, lots of work.
Back to spackling and sanding. Boring!
Best Regards, Rex

[Elbee]

Rex,

If you like the way it looks in red, paint it red; it's your Phantom.

I do not know how strict the scale judging rules are for Toledo, but unless you're doing a particular aircraft 100%, then you have documentation that at least one Phantom II B/N had a red damper.

Again, authentication & how scale is about your docs; hopefully you have a picture or ten of the one you're emulating.

If you don't have a pic without the red damper, then the dampers are red; if you catch my drift.

Best, LB

[Evan D]

I agree, it's your plane, do it how you want. I am curious though about what you find.

[jetfool]

Elbee, Evan,
I think my subject had the regular color as the landing gear.
For Toledo I use my M&M color chips and only present black and white photos. Dave Platt told me years ago to do this. Judges then go buy what I provide.
Enjoying your guy's comments.
Best Regards, Rex

[f4u ausie]

Whatever the colour.. all U guys attention to detail.. even the smallest. Just amazes me lots time so far. Awesome 👍 job so far Rex.. I'm hopeless with my phone at Times. Have fun. ...oh and I'm enjoying so far

[jetfool]

Thank you F4Uausie. Figure you're enjoying your warmer weather and flying a lot. With 3" of snow and temps in the teens no better way to spend the winter than in the hobby room. I enjoy making the details and sometimes they come out looking like the real ones, LOL
Best Regards, Rex

[jetfool]

Evan D, Sounds like you worked/flew Phantoms In your military service. I have a question for you.

I am ordering this month from Callie for the Sundowner graphics and was wondering...... did the nomenclature stencils show after many hours of use or did they flake, fade or disappear? I don't believe they would look new after many flights. I want to finish this model as accurate as I can but pictures of Sundowner Squadron for me is hard to see those fine details.
Best Regards, Rex