This modeling endeavor is the result of a gift: the 1/72 Ae. M.B.2 vac kit was very kindly sent
to me by fellow modeler Luis Santos, that produced the parts time ago
as a “divertimento”.
The kit, as it arrived to my door, had few parts, and
appeared very simple, with no surface detail. No interior or exterior details
were provided either, nor transparencies or decals. The styrene was of adequate
thickness, the simplicity of the molds is the small price we have to pay to be able to
build esoteric aircrafts.
No doubt the arcane subject made my eyebrows raise, being a
plane designed and built in Argentina
in the pre-second WW2 years. The prototype was designed as a light bomber, but
eventually found some other, more peaceful uses as a transport and even as a
crop-duster, which is the subject of this article.
The lines of the plane were simple and probably the most
remarkable features of the design were the high-aspect ratio of the wing and its
generous size. A limited number of machines that explored some variations on
the theme were produced, with minor changes in the landing gear, window
arrangement, rudder shape, wing-to-fuselage fairings, fuselage covering and the
fuselage top. The lines and proportions were, as said, simple but somehow
pleasant. The design didn’t live long, but surely provided with some experience
to designers, builders and pilots.
After separating the parts I dealt with the areas that
needed either filling or sanding. After searching for references I added
surface detail and refined here and there. It took a little time, but it wasn’t
overwhelming.
A master was made for the canopy and a clear vac molded on
and a cockpit was scratch-built with a fair deal of components.
Once the fuselage was closed the dorsal area of the fuselage
was modified (it was chopped-down as per the military version in the vac
provided).
Building proceeded to a point where I really needed to have
a look at the photos of the crop-dusting version I was aiming for. In spite of
the help of a few friends the images didn’t surface, so I half-guessed, based
on comments, that area. I glued the involved parts sparingly, so if at certain
point I can actually see some photos, I’ll be able to address the possible
changes.
Some external details were scratched, like a wind-driven
generator on the left wing, the carburetor intake, engine exhausts, Pitot
–under the left wing-, Venturi –left side of the cockpit, oil cooler and
navigation and landing lights. The latter equipped with MV lenses. Aftermarket
parts were used for the engine and the wheels.
I painted the model as per its production companions, light
grey, but no markings were added, again, waiting for photos to appear. One of
the references states that three machines were adapted for cropdusting with two
drums containing the product inside the fuselage.
The research, corrections, fabrication of the missing bits
and the building itself took a time; nevertheless I
have now the clunky but rather charming shape of this model boasting its old refrigerator-like
lines on the desk.
Thanks to Luis Santos and the long list of fellow modelers
that intended to help with the particular cropdusting version. We didn’t find
anything conclusive yet, but I am sure you guys did your best.
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