Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) has provided the IPMS reviewer corps with a set of 1/48th scale metal landing gear for Tamiya’s P-47D/M Thunderbolt kits. These parts are drop-in replacements and provide a more robust landing gear set given its metal properties. This set is a replacement to the older 48050 release which now includes the tail wheel.

In the Package

The metal pieces are packaged in a clear blister package with cardboard backing. No instructions are provided.

Review Process

The metal landing gear set is used as drop-in replacements for the kit parts as noted:

• Wing Gear: B20 & B21
• Tail Gear: B10 & B11

The metal used is malleable and has some give to allow for any minor bending if needed. Also, seam lines will need to be cleaned up prior to painting just like the plastic kit parts.

For paints, use a good lacquer-based primer coat. This will allow the final color coat a surface to grab onto when applied. Super Glue (CA) or a 2-part epoxy should be used to bond the metal parts to the plastic. Also, it is recommended to remove any paint at the attachment points. This will allow a stronger bond since there is no paint to break away from the surface of the plastic or metal.

Conclusion

Overall, this is a nice detail set to upgrade Tamiya’s P-47D/M Thunderbolt kits. They are drop-in replacements and will make your model more durable with metal landing gear.

I want to thank Scale Aircraft Conversions for providing the P-47 Thunderbolt metal landing gear set and IPMS/USA for allowing me the opportunity to review.

Highly recommended!