[Old Crow]

I recall an old discussion regarding the accuracy/depth of Dragon's Hellcat panel lines, though I can't remember if it was on here or the old MH1. I was at the Edwards AFB air show today and had a chance to examine a Hellcat up close. The panel lines on the fuse aft of the cockpit are made by metal panels overlapping each following panel moving toward the tail. Therefore, the panel lines are not a gap or groove but rather the edge of a raised panel over an underlying panel

[planenuts]

As a matter of fact on the old forum I said that I remembered reading that the panels were overlapped but couldn't remember where I read it. I still can't remember. And I've looked through all of the many Hellcat books I have and I can't find it yet......but I know it's there somewhere Someone will find it after I'm dead.

It's probably right in front of me........now where did I leave my glasses.......

[Old Crow]

In addition to overlapping, the overlapping edge is riveted over the underlying panel's edge. No gap at all.

[planenuts]

Got pictures?

Then I could file them away

[Shawn 507]

Its still a good looking bird, despite the panel line issue. For what its worth!
- Shawn

[hawkonevoodoo]

I think it must be a matter of difficulty to reproduce overlapping panels so the next best thing are the lines that give you an idea that it isn't a totally smooth surface. But overlapping panels would be the best.

[Old Crow]

Got pictures?

Sorry, no pics. Too many people around and wrong lens on the camera.

Its still a good looking bird, despite the panel line issue. For what its worth!

I agree. I've got a Dragon Hellcat and love it.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not being critical- I just thought folks would be interested in the actual construction after the discussion of panel reproduction.

[Warhawk]

Here is a pic I took at our last open house. I will get a better one in a couple of weeks in Galveston at the airshow. Click thumbnail for larger pic. I'm trying to get used to posting pics here using the MH image host.


[IMG]http://forum.themodelhangar.com/[/IMG]

[planenuts]

Originally Posted by Old Crow

Sorry, no pics. Too many people around and wrong lens on the camera.



I agree. I've got a Dragon Hellcat and love it.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not being critical- I just thought folks would be interested in the actual construction after the discussion of panel reproduction.

Yeah, I love my Dragon Hellcat too. I'm anxious to see what Hobby Master can do though.

[SKUNKY]

Originally Posted by planenuts

As a matter of fact on the old forum I said that I remembered reading that the panels were overlapped but couldn't remember where I read it. I still can't remember. And I've looked through all of the many Hellcat books I have and I can't find it yet......but I know it's there somewhere Someone will find it after I'm dead.

It's probably right in front of me........now where did I leave my glasses.......

You read it in one of those old books that "jim" found in that old abandoned building..........re-mem-ber?