Reviewed by Mick Evans

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Maestro Models has released a conversion set that allows the modeller to build a 1/48 scale two-seat trainer version of the SAAB Viggen.  The set is designed for the Airfix/Esci J37 Viggen kit and is designed as a fairly simple replacement set that requires some fairly simple kit surgery.

The set comprises 10 parts crisply moulded in a light grey coloured resin, 39 etched metal parts, 4 vacuum formed canopies and a sheet of canopy masks.

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Thumbnail panels:

The etched metal detail set has been etched by Eduard from Czech Republic which has coloured instrument panels and consoles.  The conversion includes a resin cockpit moulded onto a new resin spine to represent the rear raised cockpit area. The front cockpit parts from the kit remain but they receive a new etched metal instrument panel, consoles and a new resin seat.  The colour instrument panels and consoles for the front and rear cockpit are superb and will really enhance this conversion.

The vacuum formed canopies are crystal clear and two complete sets are provided in case you slip-up with the hobby knife.

On first view, the conversion looked a bit daunting but after some quick investigation and trail fitting I realised that this is a very simple conversion. The surgery involves a section of the kit spine to be removed.  This needs to be done accurately and cleanly but once this is done the conversion is very straightforward.

This is another excellent conversion kit from Maestro Models. Only a moderate level of modelling experience is required to install the set.

Thanks to Maestro Models for the review sample

Maestro Models accessories are available from RebellHobby website

Text Copyright © 2009 by Mick Evans
Images Copyright © 2009 by Brett Green
Page Created 15 November, 2009
Last updated 15 November, 2009

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