The McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II was developed for the US Navy as a two-seat, twin-engine, supersonic jet fighter, entering service in 1960. It was eventually adopted for use by the US Marine Corps and the US Air Force. Capable of speeds over Mach 2, the Phantom could be armed with air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, a variety of bombs, and eventually an M61 Vulcan rotary cannon. Setting records for performance from the beginning, it held both the absolute speed record and the absolute altitude record for a time. Used extensively during the Vietnam War, the F-4 became the primary air superiority fighter for both the Navy and Air Force. The Phantom served in the Gulf War in 1991 in reconnaissance and Wild Weasel roles, and was eventually retired in 1996.

The Revell-Monogram kits of the F-4 were considered state of the art when they were first introduced in the 1980s. The kits have been re-released numerous times in different variants, and are still excellent kits. However, many of the components can benefit from an upgrade on the details. Aftermarket resin and photoetched details are readily available, and do bring the kit up to a more modern appearance.

Scale Aircraft Conversions has been producing a line of metal replacement landing gear for models since 1990. The white metal parts are much stronger than styrene plastic, and for large models, this can be important in terms of weight bearing and stability. For the greatest accuracy, the SAC white metal parts may be slightly different from the kit parts, but the attachments points are identical to the original kit parts. This allows for “drop in” replacement with no modifications necessary.

The Scale Aircraft Conversions F-4 Landing Gear is virtually a duplication of the kit parts in size and shape. One of the main landing gear was slightly bent, but was easily straightened with only finger pressure. The parts are cleanly cast and feature crisp surface details. The molding seams on the parts can be cleaned with needle files or sandpaper, and the oleo sections could be polished for a more accurate appearance. The metal parts need to be attached with something other than regular plastic cement. Cyanoacrylate (super) glues work well, and can be used with an accelerator once the parts are in place. Two-part epoxies would also work and might provide a little extra time for positioning the parts. A coat of primer is recommended before the parts are painted, but it is not absolutely necessary.

Overall, the Scale Aircraft Conversions F-4 Phantom II Landing Gear will increase the level of detail on any Revell-Monogram kit, reduce the chance of breakage or warping of the plastic landing gear, and provide the modeler with a truly enjoyable experience. Experienced modelers will thoroughly love using them, and novice builders really should consider giving these a try to enhance their next model while increasing their modeling skills. With the accuracy and durability of the parts, along with the ease of installation, these would have to receive my Highest Recommendation.

I would like to thank Scale Aircraft Conversions for providing the sample, and IPMS for the opportunity to review the product.