1 48 Stearman PT17 Bi-plane

Reader Reviews
I wanted to build a Stearman to go along with my 1/48 WW II aircraft collection. This being an Old "Hawk" Tooling kit, I expected a 1960's model Kit with limitations in detail and appearence. what I planned to do was upgrade the model with a Resin cockpit and engine. The panel lines detail is very good as well as the wings surface. My issue with the kit is that the fuselage half's do not seat together in a seamless joint. One side is slightly above the other in spots which makes the mounting pins useless. Here's the kicker ! On my kit the parts that join together on both sides that forms the separation panel between the two cockpits is 1/8 too short on one side. Looks like the plastic ran out within the mold. In all honestly, this probably was an isolated incident, since my replacement parts were perfect.I called Lindberg and they did send me replacement Body parts in a week or so. As an out of the box kit, or as a shelf model or for a youngster, this kit is meets expections. Remember, it is the Only PT-17 plastic Kit available in 1/48 scale. I do wish that Lindberg (J.LLOYD)spent a little more effort on the decals. Typical PT-17 trainers have the USAAF Star on the wheel hubs as well as white technical data on the left side of the cockpit. These additional decals would really give more detail to the model.Also, a piece of wire A(looks like Guitar string) is included for the rigging but... No instructions on how to install it ? maybe they need Kit design lessons from Revell?UPDATE: Some Good news. LONE STAR Models makes a nice Resin Cockpit for this Kit. Seats, two instrument panels, Floor and side panels. All nicely engraved with full details, seat belts on the seats and pedals on the floor. If you have some modeling experience, you can make this model a real winner. There is also a Resin Engine available from " Roll Models" for this kit. For an additional $24.00 for both parts sets, you get a nice looking model.