Sometimes you don't want your model to look like the one on the box. Maybe, you want your model to have insignias from a different country, or maybe you want it to be a different series of the same model...

or how about adding a little electric motor to move the propeller and add a little more realism to your diorama?

One of the main objectives of a serious scale aircraft modeler must be to make the model look as real as possible. Direct your effort to show as much detail as you can, basing your work on reference materials like photographs or diagrams.

• If the instrument panel is visible and the scale of the model allows it, paint the dials and switches.
• Add colors to the inside of the cockpit, the frame of the seat(s), seat belts, light controls, etc.
• Make the engine look real, use different metal paint shades.
  If the airplane has propellers, add some paint chips to the leading edge of the propeller fins.
  
  

• The bigger the scale the more detail you will need to add to your model. A 1/48 scale model wil have more detail than a 1/72.
• Moving parts such as: flaps, ailerons, canopies, propellers, landing gears should sit on the model as they do in the real thing.
• The appearance or "texture" of the model should look real. Does the metal finish of your model looks like the full scale model?
• Is the model going to look new or will it show wear and weather effects?

How real can we make a model look?

I like to make my models look as real as possible. In trying to give my models a "real look", I install electric motors in propeller airplanes. I have to internally modify the model to make room for the motors and wires. By using a Dremel motor-Tool and a X-Acto knife I carve the interior making room for the motor(s). I use a glue gun to fix the motors inside the fuselage. Be careful not to over heat the plastic because it may deform. Apply the glue in small quantities at a time.

I build a Control Box where I install switch(es) and a variable resistance to control the engine(s). I either install battery holders or connect an external AC/DC adaptor to power the engines.

Look at the following diagrams to get an idea of how to make the wiring for the motors and the parts you will need for this modification:

Circuit for a four engine airplane

Some of my models include LEDs or miniature bulbs and smoke generators to even add more realism.

Watch the B-29 in Action

Watch a model of the P-61 "Black Widow" in Action-This video shows the control box

B-29 with 4 electric motors and LEDs (Scale 1/48)

Installation of an electric motor in a B-25. Look how the motor is secured by using hot glue.

B-25 modified to include 2 electric motors and a smoke generator to simulate damage on the left wing.
(Scale 1/48)

Major Modifications and Conversions:

A modification or conversion is anything that makes the model appear different from what it is intended to. It can be a different paint scheme, a different subtype of the same airplane or a convertion of a single seat to a double seat airplane.

View a photo of the North American NA-50 of the Peruvian Airforce. This is an example of a major modification. The kit was originally an AT-6 texan (like the one on the right