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*FINISHED* CH53E Super Stallion in 1/350 scale madness


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Hello, 

 

   Let the madness begin!   Or, continue...
So these are not really intended to be stand alone models on their own.  These are "accessories" for 1/350 naval ships.  But since I've never claimed to be normal.... Here we go
This is a 1/350 scale CH53E.  Been such a small scale, it has like 9 parts total.  I know there is a photoetch set for these but I'm cheap 🙂


2v2H6qHdqxJ21ND.jpg


And even before getting the first 2 parts together we are already in deep waters....
The CH53E typically carries external drop tanks.

2v2HtvZoWxJ21ND.jpg 
 

Which are not included.

So, I started with a piece of styrene rod and started shaping it.  Here is where we are now:
 

2v2HtvKmFxJ21ND.jpg

More tweaking is needed and then I'll have to do the other side. 

 

Thanks,

Ismael

Edited by ismaelg
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Hello,

 

   While not the most optimal, this also addresses my display space issue 🙂

It comes with both folded and regular rotors.  I'll go with the regular unfolded look.

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Cool little project. And the display opportunities are endless. You could build a small deck section, or ramp. 

Looking forward to seeing your progress. 

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On 5/27/2020 at 6:12 PM, midnightprowler said:

So help me if you put headphones in the cockpit I am going to send over some people with a nice warm white  jacket for you........:rofl:

The headphones, stereo or mono? 😃

Edited by ismaelg
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Hello,

  Moving along, the first of 2 scratchbuilt external tanks is taking shape.  Fuselage was painted black inside except for the windows, which were slightly tinted. I'll try to keep them translucent.  Fuselage halves glued together.
 

2v2HtCQTGxJ21ND.jpg


2v2HtCQhFxJ21ND.jpg


Started masking the windows for painting.  This is a real challenge at this scale.
2v2HtCQSnxJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,

  Both drop tanks are done They will attach to the aircraft via these added brackets.
First coat of paint applied.  Windows were masked so hopefully will be see thru.  
Here is a shock for everybody! Dealing with fuselage seam lines on 1/350 scale is quite a challenge!


2v2HtjyNqxJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,

   Made the refueling boom out of plastic and aluminum tape. It is not attached yet so don't mind it is skewed.
By the way, the fuselage is painted and I was able to save the windows by masking them.  External fuel tanks will be attached next.

2v2HYof3dxJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,
So, been 1/350 there is really nothing you can do to enhance the main rotor. Yeah right!  Still more to come after painting.

2v2HYHhKWxJ21ND.jpg

Been even smaller, nothing can be done in the tail rotor...
2v2HYHh1GxJ21ND.jpg


2v2HYHhpnxJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,

 

This is what happens when you find the smallest wire you have seen in a long time.  I suppose this is to prevent the tail rotor to strike the ground.


2v2HYfQs5xJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,

   Ya know... you can't call it a helicopter without a swash plate and pitch links...
(There are 3 days of work here)

Yes, I noticed in the pic one link is not straight.
2v2HYR1FdxJ21ND.jpg

 

Thanks,

Ismael

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Hello,

 

  It is finally FINISHED!
Since the whole thing ismolded in clear, not styrene, I was not able to get the main rotor blades to droop simulating weight.  I even had them for over a day upside down with a weight at the center but it springs back as if nothing.

Main Details:
Transparent windows masked so you can see thru
Added external fuel tanks ( 6 parts each / turned out a bit narrower than required and fit at a slight angle instead of almost level on the 1:1)
Scratchbuilt refueling boom
Scratchbuilt sensor on the left side of the front opposite to fuel boom
Added front landing gear protection plate
Added main rotor swash plate, links 
Rotor blades tips modified as per 1:1
Added rear tail skid (4 parts)
Added rear top antenna
Added tail rotor pitch control links
Added tail support
Added sensors on top of external tanks
Added nav lights (red and green)
Added black surface decal on top of side pods
Weathering as per references

 

Without further ado, I present my 1/350 scale  CH53E Super Stallion

2v2HY5HmzxJ21ND.jpg


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2v2HY5H68xJ21ND.jpg


2v2HY5H7oxJ21ND.jpg


2v2HY5HR2xJ21ND.jpg



2v2HY5HD8xJ21ND.jpg


And the spoiler picture:
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2v2HY5HkUxJ21ND.jpg


Your comments are always appreciated.

 

Thanks,

Ismael

Edited by ismaelg
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That is impressive! You have taken that basic model and gone above and beyond what anyone could expect from that little kit. Another one to be very proud of. 

 

LD.

Edited by Loach Driver
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