The Aires 2116 detail set is a highly detailed aftermarket 1:32 scale wheel bay designed for McDonnell-Douglas AV-8B Harrier II scale models. It is produced for Trumpeter kits and includes unpainted resin parts and photo-etched (PE) metal details to replace and heavily upgrade the stock plastic landing gear bays.
Key Features
- Material: Cast resin (which requires cyanoacrylate / super glue) and photo-etched metal parts.
- Scale: 1:32.
- Accuracy: Replaces simplified plastic wheel wells with highly realistic plumbing, hydraulic lines, wiring, and structural ribbing.
- Compatibility: Made specifically for the 1:32 scale Trumpeter AV-8B Harrier II models.
Modeling Tips
- Resin Handling: Wash the resin parts in warm water and mild dish soap to remove mold release agents before painting. This helps primer and paint stick properly.
- Cutting: Use a razor saw or fine-toothed hobby saw to remove resin casting blocks. Do not twist or snap the parts, as resin is brittle.
- Safety: Wear a dust mask when sanding resin, as the fine particles can be harmful if breathed in.
- PE Parts: Use specialized PE bending tools or tweezers to fold the metal detail pieces.