[Shawn 507]

OK I forget, should the FM-2 Wildcat have the same prop hub as the F4F, or was the Mr. Holmes version correct?

[flyXwire]

I've seen a model of the FM-2 from an IPMS site that had the "John Holmes" prop hub that the ladies were going ga-ga for.

[T-Bolt19]

I don't know about prop hubs, but the FM-2's tail is supposed to be noticeably taller than the F4F's but in the two that I have I don't see a difference.

[ZS-VAN]

I think the question has been asked before but can't recall ever being answered. The tail issue has also been mentioned, the two should be different. Guess the manufacturers figure a Wildcat is a Wildcat.

[HotTrap429]

Originally Posted by ZS-VAN

I think the question has been asked before but can't recall ever being answered. The tail issue has also been mentioned, the two should be different. Guess the manufacturers figure a Wildcat is a Wildcat.

ZS is correct. The tail on the FM-2 should be taller. I have the EasyModel version of the FM-2 and they made the adjustment. The tail is taller than their F4F models. I have this Dragon model and I really do like it even with the "well-endowed" prop hub and the shorter F4F tail. BTW - this has been mentioned before - you can remove the hub by gently pulling it off with a pair of pliers. I promise - if you are careful the plane won't feel any pain.

[ZS-VAN]

You sure this procedure is safe HotTrap? I'd hate to do some permanent damage.

[SKUNKY]

I'd be wary, ZS....Trap also said practically the same thing when he put out his "Circumcise Yourself at Home-Painlessly" essay a while back...

[HotTrap429]

Originally Posted by ZS-VAN

You sure this procedure is safe HotTrap? I'd hate to do some permanent damage.

Well that depends on what you want the outcome to be. If you want a Wildcat to impress the ladies then I wouldn't suggest such a radical procedure. I guess you could always "glue" the hub back on if you change your mind. And don't listen to Skunky - my "Circumcise Yourself at Home-Painlessly" essay was only a rough draft - it wasn't meant for human consumption until I had a chance to do a revision.

Seriously though, I was able to remove the hub safely. You have to very gently pry and pull on the hub. Pull too hard and you can snap the propeller so be careful. Afterwards, I painted the regular looking propeller hub silver. . Really looks great! Not much can be done with the inaccurate tail though. While I wish Dragon had used the correct tail, the model is still a nice looking Wildcat.

[Shawn 507]

Well by hook or crook I have a spare F4F propellar and was toying with the idea of using it on the FM-2 if'n thats the correct type. I know we talked about it before on the old MH, was hoping someone remembered.
- Shawn

[mikeb1958]

Originally Posted by SKUNKY

I'd be wary, ZS....Trap also said practically the same thing when he put out his "Circumcise Yourself at Home-Painlessly" essay a while back...

I think I seen that 'kit' avertised on a local TV channel late at night recently. Wonder if it comes with that hot nurse on the commerial too.