FLRC 1600 Spitfire Mk.IX - Mk.XVI modification

[Beeg]

Decided to start cutting up Spitfire #2. Not sure if I'm going to call it a late, late rare Mk.IX or just call it a Mk.XVI.

Here's rendering of what it should look like from an MRC file photo.

[Beeg]

Incase anyone was wondering what a Mk.XVI looks like,

Here's how I'm going to shape the aft fuselage.
Temporarily tacking a modified bulkhead to the rear fuselage break. The break point on the model is actually between 2 scale frames. Frame 18 and 18a so I made a slightly modified frame calling it 18x.
The forward frame in the cockpit is the top part of Frame 11.
I'm installing a strip of 0,060" FR4 for the spine to make sure I keep it straight and to provide a middle for the foam filler when I get there.

[Beeg]

Time to start shaping a new canopy plug.

[Beeg]

[Beeg]

Didn't get much work done but making progress on the new canopy.

[Jimbobtheflimbob]

nice work. Are you gonna vac form the canopy or will it be painted?

[Beeg]

It'll be vac formed.

[Beeg]

Can't decide if I should make the front windscreen built up and detailed or just vacuum forming the whole thing...decisions, decisions. Anyway, making slow progress..
Once I get this portion done I need to get to converting the wing to an "E" wing. Then I have to decide If I want to clip it....humm. Might have to make two different wings! ;)

[Mixdup]

Hey mate, I'd go with a built up front windshield. I made a new hoop frame and armoured glass frame for mine. Also the stock mirror mount is all wrong and the clear section around it is painted...

[Beeg]

Nice! Your new frame looks a lot better.

Think you're right in that I should separate the forward frame. Just can't get the detail in a vac form. Fortunately the bubble canopy jobs rarely had mirrors so don't have to worry about that. The stock frame definitely is a little heavy on the framing but with vac form what can you do..

[Mixdup]

Yeah, I was going to start from scratch as the forward frame is pretty simple, just 3 triangles really, but stuck with improving the stock one best I could.
Another cool feature is to add the side fairing and de-icer at the front. I'm working on that tonight - I'll send some pics when done. Here's a teaser pic..

[Mixdup]

Canopy fairing

[Beeg]

Looks good.
I'm using the same source for my drawings. They are fantastic.

[Alpha]

Do you have any updates to with us on this ambitious conversion of yours, Beeg?

[Beeg]

Sorry nothing significant at this time. This last year, especially fourth quarter last year have been crazy. This project is on the top of my pile though. I stare at it almost every day. Just need to fiberglass the canopy model and pull a few vac forms of different thicknesses to see what works best. I haven't even opened the box of my FW A-4 or flown anything in a few months. I am getting motivated though. I'm currently finishing up an ARF (Hangar9 ASW20) and plan to get to the Mk XVI mod shortly. And I need to get the Spitfire done before I start on my "JohnMorgan/AirSally" FJ-1 EDF.

[Grossman56]

I was wondering what happened to this project, such a cool idea!

Grossman56

[Elbee]

Beeg, I am a big fan of the Seafires. Your conversion is interesting in that I want to convert a 2nd Flightline Spit to a MK 24 Seafire. When you restart your project, please keep posting here. Also, I would definitely be willing to purchase the new canopy. Best, LB

[Beeg]

Been eye balling the project lately. About to get after it again...hopefully!