Since I was at it with the Macchi M.C.72, I decided to also go for the M.67, which was a slightly earlier -1929- machine equipped with an Isotta Fraschini ASSO 18cyl in “W” of 1,800 hp. The particular configuration of the engine determined the shape of the front fuselage. Three machines were made and experienced the multiple problems associated which such complex pieces of engineering.
Like the M.C.72, the M.67 was a pure bred racer seaplane,
conceived to compete for the Schneider trophy. The lines and general
arrangement are similar to those of the MC72, also having radiators on the
wings, floats and struts, besides the fuselage sides and the oil cooler under
the chin. It had a three-blade propeller that of course created some torque, so
one float carried more fuel than the other and the wing was very slightly
asymmetrical to try to compensate. The design was not fortunate due to
technical problems, but one machine survives at the Vigna Di Valle museum.
How to paint an Italian racer:
You must know that the secret is in the tomatoes.
The right ones will give the finished model that characteristic bright red racy
hue.
But seriously:
The model followed the same methods as the similar MC72
posted here, one difference being the shapes created for the engine
cylinder bank fairings. As it is sometimes the case, the carving and sanding of
these particular parts and their fit over a compound-curve surface required
some attention and time. Aeroclub vac floats were adapted removing a section
and re-joining their front and back halves which matched the plans very well. A
cockpit interior was created of which little could be seen once the fuselage
halves were closed. The fuselage needed several sessions of puttying, sanding
and priming –see images-. The fuselage side radiators were engraved on thin alu
foil that was painted brass later on and added to the finished fuselage. Struts
for the flotas were adapted from Contrail streamlined stock. A leftover bomb
from a kit was put to better use creating the conical spinner, and blades were
re-shaped from a white metal prop. Spars were located on the fuselage to align
and secure tail and wing halves. Decals, 77 of them, were home made
The fantastic lines of this racer look like a sculpture
influenced by Carra, Balla and Boccioni of Italian Futurism fame.
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