Norseman Mk V CF-ILN
The following modification were incorporated in the 1:48 Modelcraft kit.
I started with the P&W R1340 Wasp engine from Engines & Things. I drilled out the crankcase and installed a length of 1/8” aluminum tube to be used as a propeller bearing. I added push rod covers and an ignition harness, including bits of wire for the spark plugs and plug wires. I discarded the kit propeller and used one from the scrap box, cut and sanded to dimensions. I used a length of 1/16” tube for the prop shaft. The three counterweights for the pitch change mechanism were made out of more aluminum tube. I used a short section of 1/8” aluminum tube for the prop hub.
For the wings and stab, I discarded the flaps and ailerons and made new ones from basswood, sanded to shape, and re-installed the flaps at the takeoff position. The other flying control surfaces were repositioned accordingly. The kit lift and jury struts were discarded and I made new ones from bamboo skewers. (When you live 500 miles from the nearest hobby shop, necessity really is the mother of invention.)
I installed a complete scratchbuilt cockpit and interior. The cockpit has the rudder pedals, column, throttle, mixture and prop control, flap crank, fire extinguisher and proper seats, cushions and belts. I installed a headliner, side panels, seats, cushions and seat belts in the cabin. The cabin and cockpit windows and windshield are 1/32” acrylic. The cabin floor is 1/16” birch, in keeping with the real thing.
The skis and pedestals were scratchbuilt using balsa and basswood, and the ski attach hardware was made up using aluminum tubing.