Fisher Model and Pattern 1/144 KC-135 Nose and TF33 Correction Set First Look
By Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | July 2015 | Manufacturer | Fisher Model and Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | KC-135 Nose and TF33 Correction Set | Scale | 1/144 |
| Kit Number | A44001 | Primary Media | Resin |
| Pros | Beautifully cast parts | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (USD) | $25.00 |
First Look
Fisher Model and Pattern is turning to kit corrections and conversions more and here is one of their latest releases. This is essentially a KC-135E correction kit for the Minicraft kit (#14627). This set addresses two areas with the kit: first the nose. This conversion simply has you cut the forward fuselage off at a defined panel line and replace it with this new and properly shaped nose. This shape issue is common with the KC-135R and this nose will be released with new CFM-56 engines for that kit in the near future. If you look at the photo on the right, the resin nose is hollow-cast and doesn't add weight to the front of the model. This replacement also eliminates the problem with the ill-fitting clear part and the absense of any cockpit interior in the kit.
The second improvement is the TF33 engines. These are nicely shaped and eliminate the fit hassles as well. Each engine has separately cast compressor faces and bullet fairings that go into the face of each engine making painting much easier as well. This set replicates the kit's engine layout with the generator-equipped engine pylons on the inboards and the straight pylons on the outboards. For those who are replicating later KC-135Es, check your photo references as some aircraft have the generator pylon on number four engine (right side outboard) so you'll need three generator pylons and one straight for your project. You can contact Fisher Model and Pattern for that combination.
This set will enhance the Minicraft KC-135E and as I mention above, similar updates are coming for the KC-135R and even a set with J57 engines for the KC-135A. Look for these and some exciting conversions for the -135 coming in the near future!
One last note - the retail price for this set is $25 USD, but if you anticipate building more than one KC-135E, you can get set A44002 which has two noses and two sets of engines for $40 USD.
My sincere thanks to Fisher Model and Pattern for this review sample!