About time for another up-date, although not that much to show. I'm still plodding along with the decals, as shown in the pics. Many can't be seen unless close up, as they are in 'Low Viz Pink', this season's must-have colour!
The serial number was made by cutting and mixing the kit decals, as was the 'XT' code, the 'T' being made from an 'I' and 'U'. I nearly slung the darned thing doing this, as the 'I' immediately folded on itself when being slid off the backing paper, and I had similar problems with many of the very small decals. The problem is there isn't enough carrier film around the small stencils, so they slide under the paper when moved, and wrinkle at the slightest excuse!
The 'Firebird' is from a spare Phantom dry-transfer sheet, and really is a little over size, but I think it will pass. Just got to apply around another 100 decals, and make the red and white checks for the top of the fin. Meanwhile, I've started on some of the other areas of construction, with the stores pylons and rails, which need a lot of attention to remove moulding seams, and alter attachment points to allow the parts , made from two different types of plastic, to fit.
This kit was produced in France, and I'm beginning to think it was made in a factory which normally produces those useless 'novelty' toys found in Christmas crackers - the quality of the plastic, and many of the mouldings, is poor and 'cheap' looking, and there are incorrect panel lines and other items all over the place - even though the decal sheet shows the correct location points, which have been moulded elsewhere!
Ah well! Onwards and upwards as they say. I might get some more done tomorrow, but after four hours today struggling with decals, I might have a break and do more on the Wessex!