Joe's Bell UH-1B Huey

[flyjoe180]

I had to choose from the Bell UH-1H Iroquois, UH-1B Iroquois "Huey" and a Bell 47G Sioux. I have selected the little Huey B model as my GB subject. I will complete it as the RAAF version.

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Might be a little while before I can get started. I have a check coming up for work, nephew number two was born last night while I was at work and I want to try and get the Phantom done soon. But a new field for me, never built a helicopter before so this will be interesting.

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[Guest]

I think you've chosen the right version... I like the look of it like I said in the other thread.

I'm sure you'll do it justice mate

[geegad]

look forward to seeing this build i was going to get the dragon version but can't get it for love nor money

[flyjoe180]

Progress so far. I have to say I am loving this Italeri kit, it is a bit fiddly but after months of older kits this is a piece of cake. Things simply fit! I suspect this is the same kit as the (more expensive) Tamiya UH-1B.

I started with the interior. Italeri failed to include a slot for the instrument panel as indicated on the instruction sheet. A minor but annoying point, and it makes it difficult placing it into the cockpit which is very tight at the front.

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The engine and rotor components were then fixed to the rear of the interior wall. This looks like some sort of time machine to me.

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The fuselage halves were mated with the interior fitted. This is an easy and clean process, well thought out.

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The tail fin is fitted.

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I have also tinted the green overhead perspex glazing and fitted them to the inside of the roof section. A dry fit shows the fit of the roof and engine cowling covers/exhaust sections will not be a big job.

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[Dave W]

Nice start Joe.At this rate it will be finished before the Phantom.

[flyjoe180]

Thank Dave. The Phantom isn't too far off now, just got to get a layer of grey onto it, some varnish and then decals etc. I'm waiting for a day when I can get the garage to myself and one of the cars is out.

This Huey is a nice kit so far. A little bit of cleaning up was done around the fuselage area this evening. Should be at a stage where paint can go down in the next few days. If I complete this Huey with enough time I still have another two Bell UH-1D/H kits and a Bell 47G to build.

[flyjoe180]

Now I have finished dealing with new family additions and checks for work, here is an update.

All the tiny seams have been filled and sanded. This Italeri kit has been great to work with. I can't wait to get into the larger UH-1H model later.

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The main glazing was fitted to the airframe and door windows to the doors which are kept separate at this stage. The roof-mounted perspex windows were painted in Humbrol clear green 1325. I was quite impressed with this stuff, the first time I have tried it. The glazing was masked off for painting. The roof has been painted white. The fuselage band, tail stabilisers and rotor tips have been painted yellow. Decals are included for these but I prefer to paint fuselage bands and rotor tips. After these pictures were taken the engine cowl/exhaust section was applied and a layer of olive drab went down. Then I had interruptions with work, but another coat will be applied today.

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My application of the scheme will differ a bit from the box. The box says it is supposed to represent a machine from 9SQN RAAF based at Williamstown in 1961. '720' was not delivered until 1964, and 'Williamstown' should be RAAF Base Williamtown. The scheme only differs around the roof area. More progress to come soon. Thanks for looking.

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[aaron]

Jeeze Joe, Thats some nice filler work, Tamiya putty im guessing by the colour? I cant use the stuff lol.

She sits well. Thumbs up bro.

[flyjoe180]

Cheers mate. Yep, it's the Tamiya basic putty. Thanks.

[Guest]

It's coming along nicely Joe, as Aaron said nice filler work as well.

As far as the interuptions from work .... why not take it with you .... after all thats what Auto-pilot is invented for

[papa 695]

Just caught up on this one Joe and may i say what a fine job your doing on this

[colin m]

Nice progress Joe. Yes, work does get in the way, well not for me it was a holiday obstructing me !

[Guest]

Looking good Joe.

[Guest]

Cranking right along Joe!

[flyjoe180]

Update. Gloss coats are on, decals applied. A bit of subtle work to be done on intakes and mesh screens, then a dulling of the gloss and some navigation lights. Then we will be complete.

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