Beyond The Sprues

Current and Finished Projects => Physical Models => Aero-space => Topic started by: mikejapan on February 28, 2012, 01:16:15 PM

Title: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on February 28, 2012, 01:16:15 PM: I don't feel like doing the whole WIP over again.
So here's a link everyone.
http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?showtopic=244796&st=0&p=2329267&fromsearch=1&#entry2329267 (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?showtopic=244796&st=0&p=2329267&fromsearch=1&#entry2329267)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on February 29, 2012, 12:13:17 AM: Well worth the click everyone! (I'm sure he will post more pics here later! :P )

Welcome Aboard!! 8)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on February 29, 2012, 05:35:54 AM: I really hope for the next photos here :) I want to make VF-0 from F-14 1:32 in the near future and now I have perfect guide:)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: sotoolslinger on February 29, 2012, 05:43:11 AM: Neato :-*
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on February 29, 2012, 06:08:26 AM: Don't worry, more pics will arrive tonight.
I've done much more already.
Right now I have built up around the upper fuselage and layered it.
The black walk around areas near the canopy are almost done.
I'm gonna buy the F-14D aires exhausts from spruebrothers.com
Thanks for looking guys!

Michael
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: sotoolslinger on February 29, 2012, 06:44:51 AM: Can't wait bubba that is some serious putty-fu skills ;)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on February 29, 2012, 01:50:38 PM: You see on top of the fuselage where I had contoured plastic sheets and apoxie clay to make it look "buff" ;)
You can see in the first pic that I had shaped a ball where the hud projector should be.
And started making the walkways.
I'm using an F-15 styled way of utilizing an Avionics bay behind the pilot. Not sure if it's like that in the real VF-0 but who's gonna know right?
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4473.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4475.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: finsrin on February 29, 2012, 02:06:06 PM: Totally like it. Looking forward to more pictures.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on February 29, 2012, 04:37:07 PM: Here is line art of cockpit but there isn't any sign of avionics behind seat:

http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0-cockpitfighter.gif (http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0-cockpitfighter.gif)

When I'll get back home I'll try to make a photo of my 1:72 VF-0 cockpit area but I think avionics bay behind seat is invisible even in film.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on March 01, 2012, 01:42:36 AM: just so impressed with this massive conversion!! Gutsy!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: apophenia on March 01, 2012, 06:15:50 AM: Wow, that is some serious surgery. Nice work man!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 01, 2012, 06:22:00 AM: Thanks for all of your replies everyone.
About the cockpit. Your right.
I was looking around and found this model http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php?topic=30286.0 (http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php?topic=30286.0)
I give credit to the guy and anyone else who built it. I wish they came out in 1/48.....
I'll probably scratchbuild the interior of the canopy and cockpit. Should be fun ;)
Aight, I'm gonna go hit up this one hot girl I know and ask her out to prom.
More progress tonight so keep watching!
Catch ya later
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 01, 2012, 06:50:19 AM: Well , It's my VF-0 :) Very nice model by Hasegawa but ...I want it in 1:32 :) Anyway ...I'm waiting for yours :) Think about a conversion resin pack :D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 03, 2012, 08:56:55 AM: So far I have enlarged the flaps too at least 1cm.
I've also cut out and placed the forward fuselage lights near the radome.
I couldn't figure out how to make swivels for the weapon mounts honestly.
The structural integrity of the wings is very questionable as is.
So i'm using the regular weapons stations for the project.
Here is a link http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?showtopic=132432&st=1130 (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?showtopic=132432&st=1130)
I'm using the Dual Amraam system and I may experiment even more!
Still working on it!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 03, 2012, 11:22:34 AM: (http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4478.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4480.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4481.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4483.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on March 03, 2012, 10:05:22 PM: Looking great!! the styrene details make it pop 8)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 04, 2012, 08:00:29 AM: Maybe this will help you, few photos of my Phoenix:
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0424.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0423.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0422.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0421.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0420.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0419.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0418.jpg)
(http://i417.photobucket.com/albums/pp258/wacek80/DSCN0425.jpg)

Keep up the good work , very inspirational for sure :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 04, 2012, 09:05:22 AM: Thanks guys
And wow.....I finally have some decent pics of the aircraft itself!
THANKS ARTOOR!
Oh yeah, did I ever mention that those Thrust vectoring nozzles are gonna be a pain in the a**
But it should be fun ;)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 04, 2012, 03:28:53 PM: She's getting there :-*
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4484.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4485.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4486.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4487.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 04, 2012, 06:16:57 PM: Wow :) It's getting better with every update :D Two things I'd like to mention: these small black lerx near cockpit should be sleeker , on the radome, the line where putty begins is visible. Please, don't get me wrong - this is a VERY serious conversion and modification of these "small things" will make it even better :)

A few drawings:
http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/schematic-vf0a.gif (http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/schematic-vf0a.gif)
http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter.gif (http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter.gif)
http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter-lineart.gif (http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter-lineart.gif)

Line drawing of head unit behind nose wheel wwell:
http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter-lineart.gif (http://macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a/vf-0a-fighter-lineart.gif)

Think about this configuration :)
http://www.macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a-angel/vf-0a-angel-fighter-armed.gif (http://www.macross2.net/m3/macrosszero/vf-0a-angel/vf-0a-angel-fighter-armed.gif)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 05, 2012, 05:27:04 AM: Thanks Artoor!
I didn't really see all the bad stuff until after the painting. :icon_crap:
I may be able to work on it today but not sure.
Thanks for the comment man! 8)
Btw.... The angel configuration?
No plane I know will even look close to the Ghost.
If I were to make that aircraft I need to COMPLETELY scratchbuild it.
Idk maybe I will maybe I won't but thanks again! ;)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on March 05, 2012, 05:46:01 AM: wow Mike! How did you paint it! Looks superb 8) Also love your Avatar saying. Perfect attitude :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 05, 2012, 07:05:13 AM: Quote from: mikejapan on March 05, 2012, 05:27:04 AM
Thanks Artoor!
I didn't really see all the bad stuff until after the painting. :icon_crap:
I may be able to work on it today but not sure.
Thanks for the comment man! 8)
Btw.... The angel configuration?
No plane I know will even look close to the Ghost.
If I were to make that aircraft I need to COMPLETELY scratchbuild it.
Idk maybe I will maybe I won't but thanks again! ;)

You're very welcome :)

In case of building Ghost...think about 1:48 F-16.With F-16 you have to: place whole airframe upward-down, rotate wings (forward swept) and make downward-canted winglets, modify cockpit area and front of fuselage (to make it more X-men-blackbird-ish , putty and styrene will do it - and by the look of this Phoenix , I'm sure that you can handle the build of Ghost :) ) and modify exhaust...

The decision is yours :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 05, 2012, 07:09:38 AM: You mean like this guy???
http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?s=d8ee5f649e7837f09099911cb4fe5f2b&showtopic=172627&st=40I (http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?s=d8ee5f649e7837f09099911cb4fe5f2b&showtopic=172627&st=40I) thought about the Falcon honestly.
Talk about 90210 surgery haha
Also, Talidan: I just got FS16440 Light gray and used a paintbrush ;)
And for the black stripes I just masked it off and went on.
Thanks guys!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 05, 2012, 07:18:50 AM: Quote from: mikejapan on March 05, 2012, 07:09:38 AM
You mean like this guy???
[url]http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?s=d8ee5f649e7837f09099911cb4fe5f2b&showtopic=172627&st=40I[/url] ([url]http://s362974870.onlinehome.us/forums/air/index.php?s=d8ee5f649e7837f09099911cb4fe5f2b&showtopic=172627&st=40I[/url]) thought about the Falcon honestly.

Why not ?? One Italeri F-16 and let's rock :D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 05, 2012, 07:25:14 AM: Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Interesting 8)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: tc2324 on March 05, 2012, 09:50:57 PM: Thats one hell of modded F-14.

Great job so far. :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 07, 2012, 08:26:48 AM: Well... Since I can't find decals for a 1/48 VF-0 and i've never used the dry transfer decal technique.
I'm just gonna use 1/48 F-14 Jolly Rogers decals.
I have revised the LERX slightly and have continued painting the aircraft.
My father's friend is looking for F-14 or F-15 engines to put in so I can start scratchbuilding the thrust vectoring nozzles.
I can probably get some pics up by tonight.
Keep checking! :))
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Sentinel Chicken on March 07, 2012, 08:32:28 AM: This is one epic kitbash! All the more impressive given the scale, I can only guess that the amount of putty might but a crimp on sotoolslinger/Ron's use!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 07, 2012, 09:22:17 PM: Quote from: mikejapan on March 07, 2012, 08:26:48 AM
Well... Since I can't find decals for a 1/48 VF-0 and i've never used the dry transfer decal technique.
I'm just gonna use 1/48 F-14 Jolly Rogers decals.
I have revised the LERX slightly and have continued painting the aircraft.
My father's friend is looking for F-14 or F-15 engines to put in so I can start scratchbuilding the thrust vectoring nozzles.
I can probably get some pics up by tonight.
Keep checking! :))

Nice to know that there is a progress. When I'll be home I'll raid my decal stash , maybe I have spare decals for YF-19 and VF-1 :D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 08, 2012, 07:00:41 AM: To tell ya the truth. I think i'm gonna stick with the U.S decals.
Be interesting to see what it looks like in NAVY markings! 8)
But thanks for your offer Artoor!
Anyways, here's some pics
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4489.jpg)
Reprofiled the Lerx a bit. Added the black stripe as you noticed in the first pic.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4490.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4491.jpg)
If you're wondering why that black wall is on there. It's because at the top of it will be the end of the canopy.
I need too work on that later.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4492.jpg)
I painted the ventral fins black and taped off the necessary shape and used Gunship Gray.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4494.jpg)
I was gonna put individual slats but that would be overly annoying.....
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4495.jpg)
This is my first REAL conversion so don't expect greatness from my skills.
Also don't have the proper tools in order to get such beautiful lines.
Thanks for looking anyways!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: sotoolslinger on March 08, 2012, 08:02:45 AM: Mike, first off , for your first "real" conversion, heck for anyones work, your overall shaping ang conversion work is outstanding :-*
Now,( you knew this was coming), as a fellow putty monster, I do most of my sanding and shaping with stuff like popsickle sticks wrapped with sandpaper :o
Look for tiny,rigid, junk like cheap microfiles and just wrap fine grain sandpaper around the shapes.
The "secret" is to buy the crap tools at Harbor Freight(or the equivalent ) but wrap em in wet/ dry sandpaper (used WET) :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 08, 2012, 12:42:00 PM: Thanks Slinger ;)
Aight, so I decided to remove the alternate canopy because it was just the wrong shape and would take unnecessary work.
So I went back to the original F/A-18E Super Hornet canopy.
Honestly, i'm happy about this decision. :)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4496.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 10, 2012, 12:10:33 PM: More progress :)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4498.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4501.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4504.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4505.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 10, 2012, 12:12:04 PM: You know.... I should get Tamiya masking tape.
This scotch tape really isn't doing well.
No matter how much I try to seal it tight. It just keeps bleeding through.
Not even using alot of paint.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: sotoolslinger on March 10, 2012, 10:39:23 PM: Tamiya tape is good but so is the blue tape at hardware stores.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Rafael on March 13, 2012, 09:26:30 AM: Mike, you deserve a Bravo Zulu!!!
Skilled or not, you managed a feat that not many achieve and much less dare to try. Thumbs up on that, my friend.
Also, you have attained a very credible appearance. The lines, the style, and the overall look cry Macross loudly and clearly. As it should have been.
Thanks for a very enjoyable conversion which includes kitbashing and scratchbuilding. Not bad for a first crack at all. Keep it up.

Rafa
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 13, 2012, 11:18:25 PM: I would like to suggest you something... hope I will not be condemned for it...Check out this:
http://www.macross2.net/m3/macrossf/vf-25f.htm (http://www.macross2.net/m3/macrossf/vf-25f.htm)

Your VF-0 looks very nice now but judging from this photo...
Quote from: mikejapan on March 08, 2012, 07:00:41 AM
([url]http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4489.jpg[/url])

...it looks more like VF-25 than VF-0. Think about making it as VF-25...

Anyway , she's looking better with every update and I'm pretty sure that she'll be great (no matter which VF you'll choose :) )
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Brian da Basher on March 14, 2012, 03:53:58 AM: That's coming along very nicely, Mike! I really like the colorful paintwork!

Brian da Basher
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 14, 2012, 05:20:19 AM: It does look live a VF-25 Messiah honestly.
But what could I do ;)
More progress
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4508.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4509.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4510.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4511.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4512.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on March 15, 2012, 08:16:40 PM: Lovely :-*
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Brian da Basher on March 16, 2012, 03:53:47 AM: Any admiral worth his salt would be green with envy not to have a bird this hot on his deck!

Brian da Basher
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 16, 2012, 05:20:27 AM: Thanks guys ;)
Don't worry, hopefully I'll buy those GE exhausts soon.
I've been too busy with school work and being tight on cash.
Oh yeah, i've added more details to the plane itself last night.
Started painting the AIM-200 AMRAAMS.
2 AMRAAMS will be put on each wing station.
The belly will have the 35mm gun pod (GPU-9)
If you're wondering about the head of the robot, I will try and scratchbuild that later.
This model won't be done for a while so it's still gonna be a good ride for everyone :)
Thanks again!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 21, 2012, 06:36:54 AM: Just some more pics.
FYI= I was building a 1/48th scale Hasegawa F-16C for my friend but we had some "problems" and the plane will stay with me.
WELL! I could either make it a regular Falcon or possibly convert it to the QF-2200 Ghost ;)
Bad thing is.... Wings are already super glued on and that'll be interesting to remove........

(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4513.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4514.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4515.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4516.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4517.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on March 21, 2012, 07:24:16 AM: Quote from: mikejapan on March 21, 2012, 06:36:54 AM
WELL! I could either make it a regular Falcon or possibly convert it to the QF-2200 Ghost ;)

I hope You'll convert it to Ghost :D Everything looks very good now , I'm waiting for more :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Brian da Basher on March 22, 2012, 03:48:45 AM: Nice work on the decals, especially the smaller placards. Details like that really add to the realism. I should know, I omit them constantly.

Seriously though, you should be mighty proud of this baby and it's not even done yet!

Brian da Basher
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: sotoolslinger on March 22, 2012, 04:02:37 AM: Sweet :) Keep it up bubba.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 22, 2012, 06:11:15 AM: THANKS AGAIN GUYS!
Yeah i'm surprised that it used to be a regular F-14A.
Came a long way to become what it is now :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 30, 2012, 05:01:19 AM: Small update on the Phoenix
I will buy F-15 engine nozzles tonight.
I picked the Eagles engines because they resemble the VF-0's much closer than the GE motors used in the F-14.
Sorry for the long absence on this project
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: finsrin on March 30, 2012, 10:48:57 AM: Looks as bad, fast and fuel thursty as they get. Sweet build. :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 30, 2012, 11:50:40 AM: Did the yellow lay ins on the walkways.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4524.jpg)
Didn't have white NAVY decals so I compensated.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4525.jpg)
My dual AMRAAM loadout. Still need to do yellow and brown stripes on two missiles.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4527.jpg)
And a teaser ;) Go to my F-16 conversion to QF-2200 for more info.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4533.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Doom! on March 30, 2012, 11:11:07 PM: Very cool project and it's coming along nicely! :)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 31, 2012, 10:44:57 AM: Thanks Doom!
I have started working on the thrust vectoring nozzles.
I have grown far impatient for the engines which have been needed for the past 3 months.
As of now i'm working on the lower halves of the nozzles and it's proved to be a fun and simple experiment!
Will post pics later tonight!

Thanks for reading!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 31, 2012, 11:50:22 AM: Some work on the nozzles
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4544.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4546.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4547.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4548.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on March 31, 2012, 12:50:03 PM: This is scary good!! :o
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on March 31, 2012, 01:16:15 PM: Even more progress tonight!
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4549.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4550.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4551.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4552.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4554.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4555.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4556.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 01, 2012, 04:38:22 AM: Here is the first time that I have posted a pic of myself along with model on here.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4559.jpg)
Added the inlet details on the upper fuselage. Speed brake etc
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4561.jpg)
I just used the stock F-14 burner cans and it worked out quite nicely :-*
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4562.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4563.jpg)
This plane is ALMOST DONE!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 01, 2012, 04:59:00 AM: Looking good! The model that is...that buffoon holding it is something else... ;) ;D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: finsrin on April 01, 2012, 05:31:12 AM: Heck of a lot of bashing and heck of a cool result. Didn't expect thrust vectors, good job on them.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on April 01, 2012, 05:35:09 AM: That weathering turned out well! I will never post a pic of me with a model because I am short and will be dwarfed!! ;D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 01, 2012, 05:38:52 AM: GTX... That buffoon you see here is a PLAYA! 8)
Thanks again guys!
It's just the head of the robot that's killing me now.
I'm still skeptical on that piece.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: GTX_Admin on April 01, 2012, 05:55:13 AM: Quote from: taiidantomcat on April 01, 2012, 05:35:09 AM
That weathering turned out well! I will never post a pic of me with a model because I am short and will be dwarfed!! ;D

Ah, just do a small scale (e.g. 1/144) and then say that it was a big scale (1/32). ;D
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Brian da Basher on April 02, 2012, 03:52:47 AM: Wow looks like a million bucks! Your work on the burner cans/nozzles is really impressive!

Brian da Basher
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 02, 2012, 11:53:10 AM: Thanks Brian!
Yeah that was my first time making nozzles for an aircraft.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 03, 2012, 12:45:33 PM: Hey guys, got more pics for you.
Comparison between the F-14D and the VF-0S Phoenix
ALBEIT! The VF-0 isn't finished YET
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4564.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4566.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4568.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4569.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4570.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4571.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4572.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4574.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4575.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4577.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4578.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4579.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4580.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4581.jpg)
And here's an original creation from me. Just finished it now...
This is the F/A-18ME Alacr Hornet 20-30 years ahead.
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4583.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4584.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4585.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4586.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4587.jpg)
(http://i1035.photobucket.com/albums/a435/mikejapan/100_4588.jpg)
Thanks for looking!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: taiidantomcat on April 03, 2012, 07:17:51 PM: Where did that hornet come from!!! :o Nice work!! Way to use the vertical stablizer in the main wing :-* very smart!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Doom! on April 04, 2012, 01:11:00 AM: I enjoyed seeing the side by side comparison between the Tomcat and Phoenix. Your Alacr Hornet is also pretty mean looking.
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 04, 2012, 04:30:50 AM: Thanks guys ;)
That F/A-18 has been on hold for 6 months. I had to finish it.
That plane was just a kitbash of F-22, A-4, and of DUH F/A-18 haha
I'm still quite pleased with the look of it!
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Artoor_K on April 04, 2012, 05:49:05 AM: Quote from: mikejapan on April 04, 2012, 04:30:50 AM
I'm still quite pleased with the look of it!

I'm not surprised , It looks very good :)

Did you based on the design of VF-29 during this build ?
http://www.collectiondx.com/files/DXCHOUGOUKIN_VF29_DURANDAL_ALTO3_JUNE2011_BANDAI_17850.jpg (http://www.collectiondx.com/files/DXCHOUGOUKIN_VF29_DURANDAL_ALTO3_JUNE2011_BANDAI_17850.jpg)
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: Rafael on April 04, 2012, 05:53:49 AM: Great comparison shots Mike!!
And the Hornet is a beauty!!!

Rafa
Title: Re: Converting Academy 1/48 F-14A to VF-0 Phoenix
Post by: mikejapan on April 04, 2012, 07:10:48 AM: Actually, I based my F/A-18 off the X-02 Wyvern from the Ace Combat series games.
http://th00.deviantart.net/fs23/PRE/f/2008/017/3/8/X_02A_Wyvern_poster_by_MS_06F.png (http://th00.deviantart.net/fs23/PRE/f/2008/017/3/8/X_02A_Wyvern_poster_by_MS_06F.png)
Thanks again guys ;)