Forum: Scale Models - F-16, F-35, F/A-22, F-2

Hello all. Been a while since I asked for help with aftermarket accessories, and as promised my F-16CJ is proving to be a very slow build. The apprehension that comes with trying new techniques for the first time on a model and add-ons I can only just afford further slows the process. Anyway, the cockpit is being prepared and I'd like to ask for some guidance once more.

The Aires pit comes with film instrument detail which goes behind the PE instrument faces. I have, after much reflection and various approaches, painted the back of the film white to get the instrument colour, for fixing behind the PE. Is there a better method to bring out the detail? Also the instructions on getting the PE belts right are a bit confusing for a simple fellow, so ahs anyone experience with it and is willing to offer random guidance via PM?

Finally, what adhesive should be used to fix the film to the resin pit, and the PE to the film, without ruining any of them? I have Zap! thick CA glue (fun to work with for the first time) and plain ole' Revell hobby cement. Any risks or problems I should look for?

Thanks in advance,

James

F-16.net Sponsor

Here's what I do for PE /photo film instro panels.

My key glue or tacking agent is future. I cut a thin "white" plastic card to shape, brush on some future, then attach the photo film. Once that has dried, I then brush on future onto the photo film face, then drop (Allignmnet is key here) the PE instro panel on, making sure of course the panel is prepainted. The future make a solid bond when dry, plus give a nice luster to the dial gauge faces.

As for the seat, yeah I not a fan of sperate seat belts either, as Aires loves to do that in their sets. The ACES II lap and seat belts aren't to complicated (not like an F-4's MB seats) so just take your time and get some good ref pics.

Mike V

Forum: Scale Models - F-16, F-35, F/A-22, F-2

Aires Cockpit Help