Aircraft Models

Posted by JWL On 2009/5/19 17:08:02

I am trying to assemble a model collection of WW-II aircraft that were specific to the Packard-built Rolls Royce Merlin V-1650 engine. I know that the Packard Merlins were used extensively by the USAAF and RAF as powerplants, new and replacement. For example, a Lancaster could be powered by Merlins from three manufactures - Rolls Royce, Packard, and English Ford.

There were just a few aircraft that were designated because they were fitted with the Packard-built engines. These are:

Canadian-built Hawker Hurricane Mk. X/XII/XIIA,

Canadian-built de Havilland Mosquito B Mk. VII/25/26,

Supermarine Spitfire LF Mk. XVI,

Avro Lancaster I/III,

Curtis Kittyhawk II,

Curtis P-40F Warhawk, and

North American P-51B and all subsequent varants.

I have located three of the above: a P-40F, a P-51B, and a Lancaster III is on preorder. A Kittyhawk II would be nice too, but the P-40F will do. I prefer smaller scale built 1/48th or 1/72nd and in die cast. Also, would like to keep the cost per model to around $50USD, but would pay more if it is the only one available.

I have searched all of the model sites I can find and have been unable to find a Hurricane, Mosquito, and Spitfire of the correct variant. Does anyone out there have any suggestions?

Thank you.