1/48 F-111 exhausts

[seamus68]

Hi all

I recently purchased a set of OzMods' F-111 exhausts to complete one of my builds, mainly because they looked to be a more complete set than the Scaledown version. Opening the pack, that does appear the case (although it doesn't offer you the option of closed/open burner like the Scaledown set), however I noticed that the actual exhaust can is vastly different in appearance than what I have seen in photos of the jets. Photos seem to show the petals on the cans to be almost flush with each other rather than overlapping. OzMods' cans have significant ridges running the length of the can fron to back. I emailed Greg from OzMOds which really didn't shed much light on the situation, save that the masters for the OzMods set were done by someone who didn't like the Scaledown set & once cast, were then offered back to OzMods to sell through the ste.

So my queestion...can any of the resident Vark/Pig experts vouch for the authenticity of the OzMods set?

I am aware the Scaledown set doesn't address the actual cans, only providing a more authentic burner housing than the Acad kit. I am also aware of the G-Factor set available from Sprue Bros. And I know p/e is available to detail the inside of the HB exhausts, so could also be used inside the Acad bits - perhaps in conjunction with a OzMods/Scaledown 'frankenburner'.

All replies/advice greatly appreciated

Shaun

[mrvark]

I think the general consensus is that the G-Factor nozzles are the best available. They represent the engines used by all BUT the F-111F (those are reportedly coming soon). The trailing edge of the nozzles is a bit thick, but otherwise they are very nice.

As to the ones you have, you might want to check the fit of the afterburner tube within the fuselage before you go too far...

As to the two flavors of nozzles, the following pictures illustrate the differences. Note that the F nozzle has 18 interior petals and 12 exterior segments to the nozzle, while the others only have 12 on the inside (with a different actuation mechanism) and 18 on the outside. Also, like the F-14, which shared the same basic powerplant, after the engines were shut down one of the nozzles closed while the other remained open.

[seamus68]

I think the general consensus is that the G-Factor nozzles are the best available. They represent the engines used by all BUT the F-111F (those are reportedly coming soon). The trailing edge of the nozzles is a bit thick, but otherwise they are very nice.

As to the ones you have, you might want to check the fit of the afterburner tube within the fuselage before you go too far...

As to the two flavors of nozzles, the following pictures illustrate the differences. Note that the F nozzle has 18 interior petals and 12 exterior segments to the nozzle, while the others only have 12 on the inside (with a different actuation mechanism) and 18 on the outside. Also, like the F-14, which shared the same basic powerplant, after the engines were shut down one of the nozzles closed while the other remained open.

Hi Jim

I knew you would pop along at some point. Thanks for the pics - some good close-up of exhaust patina on the metal to replcate. Here is a link to the page which shows the OzMods burners:

http://www.ozmods-kits.com/ozmods-conversions-upgrades-148

In reality, the surface detail on the ehaust petals part is more pronounced than the photo shows, which was the concerning matter for me. Every photo I've seen of -111 exhausts don't show anywhere near the exaggeration of this part like the OzMods set. Maybe a set of G-Factor exhausts is on the cards...

[toadwbg]

So I've always wanted to build a nice 1/48 F-111 is SEA camo. What kit are you guys using or what do you reccomend?

I built the old Monigram (Aurora kit) long ago like 1983-ish! Still have the decals I think. I'm looking for a modern tooling with good fit. Accuracy is probably 3rd or 4th priority.

[seamus68]

So I've always wanted to build a nice 1/48 F-111 is SEA camo. What kit are you guys using or what do you reccomend?

I built the old Monigram (Aurora kit) long ago like 1983-ish! Still have the decals I think. I'm looking for a modern tooling with good fit. Accuracy is probably 3rd or 4th priority.

A lot will probably come down to back pocket, I should think. I have 2 of the older Academy 'C' kits which will become RAAF a/c + their 'E' which will be a USAF UH ODS bird. IIRC neither kit set me back much more than AUD35/40 odd. Now here in Australia, current retail for the HB kit is around AUD90, though I know it can be had for less online - though not a whole lot less once post is factored in. And then you still have to buy bits to correct it. So for me, the Academy is a better starter. Yes...like the HB kit it has problems. But some of those I'm prepared to look past, because I know I fitted the correct bits & pieces which really do stick out like a sore thumb.

HTH

[j-basset]

I know that the now defunct Paragon Designs used to produce a F-111 tailpipe set.

Would their set be correct for the F-111F version?

[mrvark]

I know that the now defunct Paragon Designs used to produce a F-111 tailpipe set.

Would their set be correct for the F-111F version?

Yes