Roden 1/48 Pilatus PC-6 B2/H4 Turbo Porter Kit First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

For a bit of background on this aircraft and a look at the US-produced version of this machine, look here.

Roden has released another variant of the PC-6 Turbo Porter, this one representing the Pilatus PC-6 B2/H4, one of the current production types. This version is distinguised by a larger PT6 engine turning a four-bladed propeller and new up-turned wingtips.

The kit is molded in light gray styrene and presented on ten parts trees, plus a single tree of clear parts. The skill level is rated at experienced because the very first step in the instructions involves the very precise drilling of holes in the main deck to configure the interior for passenger seating.

The cabin interior is really nicely done with the cabin fully enclosed with a floor, ceiling, and rear bulkhead, plus structural details that align with the wing's main spar. The pilot, copilot, and main cabin doors are all molded separately and are positionable to show off that nice interior.

The ailerons, flaps, elevators, and rudder are all separately molded so you can position these as desired. The hinges that are provided are only set for neutral position for all of these surfaces, so you'll need to do a little tweaking to drop the flaps or pose other surfaces in anything other than neutral/centered.

Some of the features/options in the kit:

• Nice cockpit/main cabin
• Positionable cockpit/cabin doors
• Positionable flight controls/flaps (with mods)
• 2 x external fuel tanks
• 1 x weather radar pod

Markings are provided for two examples:

• MCD, 890, French Army, 2008
• MCE, 891, French Army, 2005

If you're looking for something different for your next project, this kit will be a nice addition to your collection, especially if you are a fan of STOL machines!

My sincere thanks to Squadron/MMD for this review sample!