Loon Models P-47C and D Cowl Conversions

Review by Steve Jantscher

LO48206 P-47C Cowling on model by Steve Erickson
 

With the recent release of the very popular and well received Tamiya P-47D Thunderbolt kit, there has been a call to offer an easier way to convert to kit to other earlier versions of the Razorback. The primary differences center on the cowl flap arrangement and fuel tank attachment faring. Late "C" models had the fuel tank kit installed (thus making correction of the bottom of the kit unnecessary) while having a unique cowl flap arrangement that only covered the top half of the cowl rear. This is nicely represented in the photo above, and in the Loon Models' item #LO48206, and in the three photos below which show the contents of the set. Note that both open and closed flaps are included.

As if the early "C" flap arrangement wasn't enough to add diversity and confusion to the Thunderbolt modeler, early "D" Razorbacks also had different cowl flap arrangements from those supplied in the Tamiya kit (representing later versions of the Razorback). This type held the full number of cowl flaps as shown on the Tamiya kit, but the bottom two on each side were not scalloped in, but were rather full span, "square cut" flaps, identical to all the others on the cowl. These are nicely represented on Loon Models part number LO48207, shown below.

Had enough P-47 stuff? Well it just so happens that Missing Link Models (available from Roll Models) also offers a line of line of 1/48th scale drop tanks (item #MLM48055) which the model builder Steve Erickson used on his Thunderbolt pictured on this page. As you can tell, the Razorback T'bolt had numerous different versions and it behooves the modeler to once again "check your sources" before committing to the representation of any specific aircraft. Loon Models provides two different cowl flap options for the builder of the Tamiya P-47. And remember, all these Loon Model conversion parts are "No Cut"! Just clean up and attach with super glue. they're designed to be "drop-in" replacements for the kit parts. Enjoy the build, I did on my P-47. Check it out in the gallery section.

Missing Link Models 75 gallon fuel tank