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Grumman TBF-1 Avenger

by William Turner

 

Grumman TBF-1 Avenger

 

images by Gary Zuercher

 

Description

 

Here is Accurate Miniatures' 1/48 scale TBF-1C, back converted to the TBF-1. This involved replacing the kit's starboard cowling and adjacent fuselage decking with the KMC resin pieces with 30 cal. cowling gun. 

 

 

Other modifications included: 

  • fairing over the wing 50 cal. gun ports; 

  • a Verlinden engine wire harness; 

  • resin pilot seat; 

  • various photo etch cockpit items; 

  • Moskit exhausts; 

  • brake lines; and 

  • IFF antenna on the bomb bay doors.

 

 

Model Master enamels were used with faded blue grey top and gull grey bottom; interior green bomb bay, radio compartment and turret; and bronze green cockpit (Humbrol #88). Decals are from Aeromaster. Pre-shading was used, with weathering from artist oil washes, pastels and dry brushing.

This model depicts an aircraft from VMSB-131, the first Marine squadron to be equipped with the TBF. Their TBF-1s had the second cockpit position fitted with various electronic gear, with the seat removed. This is depicted in the model. 

 

 

The group photo shows the squadron's surviving pilots at the end of their Guadalcanal - Espiritu Santo tour (Nov. 1942 - May 1943).

 

 

Additional Images

 

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Text Copyright © 2001 by William Turner
Images Copyright © 2001 by Gary Zuercher
Page Created 02 March, 2001
Last Updated 18 July, 2001

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