The Do-217N is a unique version of the venerable Do-217. Designed as a night fighter it was really just too slow to catch the bombers. It wasn’t useless but it did have its share of problems.

ICM released their kit of this airplane in 2020. It was a nice kit, but it was not without a few mistakes, as all models are. One of those mistakes was slightly undersized wheels. Also the wheels did not have a bulge or flat spot to indicate weight being on the landing gear. Another area that could use improvement was the tail wheel fork which is slightly anemic and mishappened. Well Aires has a solution.

Contained in a baggie with a cardstock backing is four light grey resin pieces that are beautifully rendered with no blemishes. The two main wheels and tail wheel are on one pour block while the separate tail fork is on another. The wheels feature the exquisite rim detail, including the sidewall detail and a bulged, without being flat, bottom. The tail wheel features nice ribbed detail on the tread. In addition to these beautiful resin pieces is a masking set for all the wheels. They just need to be painted up and weathered to bring them to life.

The instructions are printed on light blue paper that is consistent with all Aires products. The painting process is described. First paint the tire, then add the masks and paint the rim. You could easily paint the rim and then add the masks so it really is up to you. There are no instructions for the tail wheel fork, however, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize remove it from the block, paint and weather then replace the kit supplied part. Simple and easy.

An easy and affordable update that will be clearly seen. I think these wheels are some of the finest you’ll find. The addition of the tail wheel fork is a nice touch. These will make a dramatic difference in your model.

Highly recommended

Thanks to Aires and IPMS/USA for the review copy. You can obtain yours at your local hobby shop or online retailer. Aires does not sell direct.