CH-54A (S-64E) Tarhe Pilots Seats

Published on
Review Author(s)
Scale
1/35
MSRP
$15.40
Product / Stock #
RSU35-0005
Base Kit
ICM Ch-54A or S-64E
Company: Reskit - Website: Visit Site
Provided by: Reskit - Website: Visit Site

Founded a little more than 10 years ago by modelers, Reskit has set the standard for aftermarket accessories. Reskit’s product line keep expanding exponentially and no end in sight for what they keep offering. The CH-54A (S-64E) Tarhe pilot seats are no exception. The ICM kit seats are extremely basic and almost look more like a lawn chair than an aircraft seat. The real Tarhe seats are not as complex as other helicopters but they do have notable details that need to be represented in a model.

Packaged in a sturdy box, the contents include one 3D printed set of 3 seats (pilots and rear seat) and instructions. The resin print includes a protective structure or cage around the printed parts. There are plenty of print supports and the print detail is extremely fine with build layers barely noticeable.

The first step I took was to use a razor saw and remove the cage then divide each seat print so supports can be removed without any obstructions. The front pilot seats are nearly identical, so take note on which one is which. Carefully study the seat and plan your support removal. The area you really need to use extreme caution is the lower rear part of the seat. In this area you will encounter the seat adjustment push/pull cable which can easily be mistaken for a support. Removing supports will be easy and risk is low for damage. Repeat the support removal on the other two seats, and you are ready to move on to priming and painting.

I highly recommend this upgrade set which is light years better than the kit seats.

I would like to thank Reskit and IPMS/USA for this set to review.

Package

Reviewer Bio

David Horn

I have been building models since at least 8 years old and with a brief break after high school, model building started again late in college. My preferred subjects are aircraft of all eras and scales but a majority of my builds are 1/48 scale. I am the son of a USAF navigator who flew tactical airlift in Vietnam then his last 8 years he served at Altus AFB where he retired. My love of aircraft comes naturally and try to build subjects that I have a personal connection to. My day job parallels the hobby where I design full flight simulators ranging from small corporate jets, military fighter jets to the C-17. I hold a commercial pilot certificate and fly as a volunteer with the Civil Air Patrol. I really enjoy flying cadets, passing on the love of flight and inspiring future aviators.