New P-51D Mustang - Little Friends

[WarBert]

North American's P-51D Mustang is brought to life in part 3 of our series of this classic aircraft for FSX. Little Friends was the colloquial and affectionate label for the Escort Fighters as given by the Allied Bomber Pilots in World War II as they embarked on daylight raids to their targets, escorted by mainly US 8th Army Air Force Fighters of many types. The most commonly associated for this task is the P-51 Mustang. Because of its long range capabilities, large fuel tanks, and external fuel tanks, the P-51 was able to escort bombers deep into Germany. In this the most detailed of our part series on the P-51D Mustang, the only thing that is missing is the smell! Here the D model is modelled for the first time by Warbirdsim in its true original form. Featuring the most detailed Gunbay so far created for any Flight Simulator. All of the mounting brackets, ammunition feed chutes, link-ejector chutes, and shell ejector chutes for each individual 50-cal machine gun are accurately reproduced. For the rivet counters amongst us, even the number individual links in the ammunition feed chutes is correct.
Also Featured is a working 2 Stage Supercharger. Careful use of the power is needed; keep an eye on that manifold pressure and RPM, as the engine will quite literally blow up if due care and attention is not taken.

INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE
Eight Aircraft
Packard Merlin Sound Set
Full Livery Package (details below)

P-51D-10-NA (44-14798) "Butch Baby"
P-51D-15-NA (44-14985) "The Millie G"
P-51D-15-NA (44-15137) "Baby Duck"
P-51D-20-NA (44-63668) "Live Bait"
P-51D-20-NA (44-72218) "Big Beautiful Doll"
P-51D-20-NA (44-72366) "Hubert"
P-51D-25-NA (44-72671) "The Enchantress"
P-51K-15-NT (44-12653) "Factory Fresh RAF"<o:p></o:p>

www.warbirdsim.com (http://www.warbirdsim.com)<o:p></o:p>

[Cirrus N210MS]

sweet!

[N324JK]

I have a 1:48 scale model of Big Beautiful Doll - may have to get this one for that reason alone (although I don't need much of a reason to begin with!).

[noddy]

42460

Beautiful job.

[Bomber_12th]

Hi all,

Just got off of a very tiring work day (archeological project), and it is great to be able to get in here not too long after the release was made (thank you Albert for waiting so far into the night on your side of the pond)! If anyone wants a copy of the official paintkit for this product, please PM me (though serious requests most appreciated - due to the size of the files), and I'll be able to hopefully get to you by Friday night, and if not, certainly this weekend - there are just a few things I need to go over with you first.

I am very excited about having this product released, because once again, it 'ups the anty' in comparison to our previous products. It was amazing to get the chance to open up one of the gun bays, and give it the same level of authenticity as the rest of the aircraft - though perhaps I spent a bit too much time on it, because it pushed us a bit over schedule. :-) In any case, I hope others will find it fun to explore - the closest thing to being able to poke your head into a real P-51D gun bay, than actually poking your head into a P-51D gun bay. :)

There are a number of items covered in this product, that have never been done nor seen before in any other P-51 product for flight sim before. One of the examples being the Iwo Jima P-51D, otherwise known as a VLR P-51D, due to its VLR mission assignments - escorting B-29s on raids over Japan. These missions, taking an average of 7-hours or more, were some of the longest escort missions of the entire war, and demanded several unique modifications you won't see on any other Mustangs, which have been reproduced in this product.

Another interesting item, at least to me (that I have FSX to thank for!), is that the antenna wire is faithfully reproduced, not only in a modeled sense, but that it also is animated correctly to travel with the canopy/canopy roller.

I'll try to delve into some other details in the near future, but for now, I'll just add a few more screenshots - some of my favorites.

And I am hoping this product brings a lot of enjoyment for folks. Thank you, Noddy, for your much appreciated compliment!! It really means a lot!

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/ButchBaby_7.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/millieg2.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Some "artsy fartsy" shots of the details: : )

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/bbd_exhaust.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/gunbay_bbd1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/gunbay_bbd5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p51_gunbay3.jpg

Two of the four different main cockpit layouts, depending on which variant you fly (though each is unique, depending on which external mirror, if any, is fitted).

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img9.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img2.jpg

[YoYo]

Beauty, simply beauty :applause:

[Sundog]

Well, I know what my next purchase is going to be. Beautiful work!

Now, we need a Dora. Not from John, though it would be beautiful, as he still has a dedicated FSX P-51B to make. BTW, any chance of an A-36? I'd really love one of those.

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you YoYo, it is greatly appreciated!!

Here are some fun comparisons with Warbirdsim's P-51D "Little Friends" in FSX, and 'the real deal':


"Butch Baby", in one of only two known-to-exist photos of this aircraft, this example being the more commonly seen. The artwork for this variant, was vector-drawn straight from this original photo - though in higher quality, larger-size format. ; )

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/44-14798G4-VButchBabycolour_a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/ButchBaby_1.jpg


"The Enchantress", parked on Iwo Jima. All of the artwork on the Warbirdsim recreation, was directly vector-drawn using this photo, manipulating it enough, in sections, to properly overlay on the fuselage textures. Recreating the pyn-up, required some more finesse however, using the airbrush tool.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/The-Enchantress.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Enchantress_2.jpg


The left gun bay details:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/4855281276_dc7e58fe63_o.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/0810019_6.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/gunbay_bbd4.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Image2_Enchantress.jpg

[AndyE1976]

This is the P-51 pack I was waiting for, definitely going to pick this up in the near future despite having spent a bit this month with the sales!

Looks beautiful.

[Bomber_12th]

Well, I know what my next purchase is going to be. Beautiful work!

Now, we need a Dora. Not from John, though it would be beautiful, as he still has a dedicated FSX P-51B to make. BTW, any chance of an A-36? I'd really love one of those.

Thank you Sundog!

Regarding an A-36, all I could respond is to say that it is a possibility, given my equaled interest in the aircraft, though it would be sometime out, due to a laundry-list of other scheduled projects. ; )

(And I too would love to see a properly-made Dora, perhaps my all-time favoritie 'axis' fighter.)

[Bomber_12th]

BTW...

When you look into the gun bay, the ammunition in use is what I believe to be the most common used by the Mustang during WWII, that being incindiary rounds, which are marked with a greyish/silver tip. These were commonly used in air-to-air combat, as well as select air-to-ground missions against general targets. Every fifth bullet is tracer-round, marked with a deep-red tip. The belts of ammunition themselves, have been loaded into the ammo bays, exactly according to the ammunition-loading placard on the hinged gun bay door.

On the interior, the cockpits have been weathered to match a blend of various time-capsule Mustangs, as well as rare period photos from 1945-1946, of P-51D's that served in the 8th AF during the war, such as this one, though they weren't necessarily weathered to match one Mustang in particular - the importance being to capture the same look and feeling:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/J-2002cockpit_a.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

Bought and downloading as I type. I can't wait to fly this set. John your are a master and love all that you have done. I am so glad you picked BBD as on of the aircraft.....one of my all time fav's, and the LATE variant is awesome!!!


What is the alernate aircraft.cfg for?

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you John, and thank you Andy!! Despite working through some troubles to get this product finished, I really had a blast working on it!

Creating Big Beautiful Doll was quite a bit of importance for both myself and Albert, as we wanted to make it the most accurate depiction, to date, for any sim, then has been done before of this aircraft (though that went for all the rest of the variants as well). I have always loved the fact that the name of this particular Mustang, speaks volumes for the aircraft itself, and goes so well with the beautiful black/white checkerboard markings of the 78th FG, all the while being a modern machine of war during its time.

Just a few more of BBD, if you don't mind (I love when it catches the sunlight!):

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_6.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/bbd_3a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/bbd_5a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_1.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

As Skyhawk has asked about, there is an alternative Aircraft.cfg file present, in each of the product's three aircraft folders.

The use of the alternative Aircraft.cfg files, is outlined in the beginning of the product's user guide. ; )

The reason for these files, is that the modeled supercharger can only work with Acceleration installed, but without Acelleration installed, you can still get very similar performance characteristics, up to 25,000-35,000 ft, by using the alternative Aircraft.cfg file. If you don't have Acceleration installed, the simulated gain in power with high blower at 17,500 ft, won't work, so the alternative Aircraft.cfg files allows you another option of maintaining enough power to get you up to combat-heights, if you don't have Acceleration.

We felt it was very important to include a working supercharger in this product, but at the same time knowing we couldn't get it to work without Acceleration installed. The alternative Aircraft.cfg files allow anyone with FSX, to fly the product, and still get very accurate performance results, either way.

With the default supercharger system working in Acceleration, you will know when it automatically comes on at 17,500 ft, because you will get a great boost in power, that will now allow you to achieve maximum performance through the 20,000-30,000 ft heights, and if you are very lucky, and running a light load, you can just barely make enough power to just touch the aircraft's highest recorded height ceiling, by the time you reach 41,900 ft.

[Bomber_12th]

We have also worked in new/better coding for the pilot visibility, and maintained the same coding for activating the drop tanks when you are in the sim, so it is an excellent aircraft to fly with a buddy in multiplayer, or in a recorded formation flight. When you are playing-back a recorded formation, if you go into the cockpit on the main Warbirdsim Mustang in the playback, and activate the drop tanks so that they are showing, they will also show up on all of the other Warbirdsim P-51D's within the playback. ; )

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_14.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_6.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_7.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

a beaut and thanks for the education. For some reason I don't see a manual for this set, I only found the one for the previous edition.

I love it!!!!!

42492

[Bomber_12th]

The user guide can be found in the Wabirdsim folder in the main FSX folder. ; )

Great screenshot, John! Good to see it with those huge 110-gal tanks fitted too!

(Note the very thin wire antenna just aft of the right landing gear well, one of the additions to the Iwo Jima/VLR Mustangs, besides the 'main' antenna modifications that can more clearly be seen)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p51_img2.jpg

[MudMarine]

$49.17 US

[Kiwikat]

Wow, that looks excellent guys! :applause:

[skyhawka4m]

$49.17 US


To me its worth it because you are getting multiple models not just one like the Flight 1 Cessna just released for $50.00 US.

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you, Kiwikat!!

Just a few more screenshots I wanted to share, before getting to bed for another early morning wake-up.

For a 'factory fresh' example to include in this product, we thought it would be 'unique' to accurately depict a P-51K-15-NT, as seen in a great photo taken from outside of the Dallas, TX NAA plant. The 'unique' aspect about it, is that it isn't in US stars and bars, rather it is prepared for shipment to the UK. The data-block stencil on the side of the aircraft, clearly indicates this, where it is written, "United Kingdom Gov't" (as taken charge of). The RAF serial code painted on the rear fuselage, is the same stencil type as used by NAA on the tail fin for USAAF Mustangs. The canopy fitted is of the late-model Dallas (slick-back) type, and the aircraft also features a very late-WWII era cockpit configuration.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/RAF_K_Model.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/gunbay_bbd3.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51D_Hubert1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/LiveBait_5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/ButchBaby_8.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BabyDuck_1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/millieg.jpg

[roger-wilco-66]

Great work, I'm awfully tempted!! :jump:


Cheers,
Mark

[jankees]

oh boy, an Iwo Mustang!
and I see you lost the exhaust shrouds as well! Great job!

...but why does it have to be more expensive than the previous packages yet again?
As Mark says, I'm tempted, but haven't bought it (yet)..
I already have one of the earler ones, do you get a discount if you do?

Meanwhile, put me down for a paintkit, John, I believe you have my adress?

[skyhawka4m]

i'm in need of the paint kit also when its available.

a4skyhawka4m at aol.com

[skyhawka4m]

oh boy, an Iwo Mustang!
and I see you lost the exhaust shrouds as well! Great job!

...but why does it have to be more expensive than the previous packages yet again?
As Mark says, I'm tempted, but haven't bought it (yet)..
I already have one of the earler ones, do you get a discount if you do?

Meanwhile, put me down for a paintkit, John, I believe you have my adress?

I think with the new models and the new options its well worth it jankees.......the engine improvements, gunbays, engine shroud options...i love it.

[RKinkor]

I will have to wait as right now this pack and the previous pack are way to expensive for me as there is dearth of repaints for any of these fine aircraft. I am sure that will change eventualy when the often promised paint kits become available but at almost 50.00 for one (to me) interesting paint job it will have to wait.

[SpaceWeevil]

I hope this does really well - it's wonderful, clearly a labour of love, and deserves to be rewarded with good sales. I will reward it, when I can afford it. A small sweetner for loyal customers who bought the earlier WBS P-51Ds might bring that happy day a bit closer.

[Thunderbolt]

Awesome :applause:

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_050.jpg

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_049.jpg

[huub vink]

Huub is short for Hubert, but guys feel free to fly my personal plane ;) Thanks John!

Cheers,
H for Hubert

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y210/Huub_Vink/WBS_hubert_1.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y210/Huub_Vink/WBS_hubert_2.jpg

[jankees]

I wouldn't dare, Huub!

[Bomber_12th]

Some more Mustang 'impressions' for the day. : )

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p51_img5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/eveninglight1.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

The Merlin-engine P-51 Mustangs were originally produced with exhaust shrouds that worked to help aerodynamically stream-line the air flow over the exhaust stubs. Routinely servicing the Mustang, however, would often require the removal of the exhaust shrouds, which were fastened to an angular 'inner exhaust shroud', directly fixed to the engine. By keeping the shrouds off, it was one less burden on the part of the ground crew, and as such, were sometimes discarded.

A number of the historical P-51D's covered within "Little Friends", were 'modified' in this way, while others depicted, had their exhaust shrouds remain. Within the sim, whether the variant has them or not, you can always either discard them, or make them present again.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/LiveBait_6.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

When you open and close the gun bay, there is a specific layout of animations that correctly and accurately depict the real method for getting to the guns and ammunition.

-The first thing that happens, is that the locking-levers, on the forward gun door, are pulled up, to release the two locks on the door. The door, being hinged, is then pulled and pushed open, while at the same time a support rod is maneuvered into place to hold the door from falling.

-The next animation is that of the rear gun door, which is pulled outward, from the area at the rear of the gun bay, where the door slots into place. The forward end of the door features another lip, in which the forward gun door holds it in-place when locked. The door is then simply set asside.

-Next, the ammunition door locking-lever, found within the gun bay, is pulled upward, releasing locking screws that hold the rear of the ammunition door in-place.

-Finally, the ammunition door is pulled out, from where it is slotted into place at the forward-end, and set asside.

The entire sequence can be see in this original wartime short-movie, starting at the 0:54 mark. (Note that the ammunition door design is slightly different, being that of which was in use on the P-51D-5. Being redesigned on late P-51D's, it was easier to install and remove, than as shown in the movie, since it no longer had the extra slotted lip on the door's far side following its re-design).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyLXfuXhhaA
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyLXfuXhhaA)
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51D_Gunbay2.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51D_Gunbay1.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Last screenshot for the night. ; )

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/inyourface.jpg

[MDIvey]

This looks superb John, and I've bought this as every thing else you've done for FSX but why does it take so long to process orders?...after i'd paid it said it would be two to seven days. Thats seems an awfully long time for digital download media. I'm itching to try this out.

Matt

[stansdds]

Wow! I'm not the world's biggest fan of the P-51. It's not that I have anything against the P-51, but I really prefer round engines. That being said and having written a review of another FSX P-51D, I must say, that based on the screen shots, that this appears to be one heck of a great addition to FSX. It looks like Warbirdsim took their time, researched the subject, and presented the FSX community with a great P-51D. :applause::applause::applause::applause:

[skyhawka4m]

This looks superb John, and I've bought this as every thing else you've done for FSX but why does it take so long to process orders?...after i'd paid it said it would be two to seven days. Thats seems an awfully long time for digital download media. I'm itching to try this out.

Matt

Check your email for something from Warbirdsim. I paid via paypal and had my email right after payment. The link for download is in the email.

[Cleartheprop]

Check your email for something from Warbirdsim. I paid via paypal and had my email right after payment. The link for download is in the email.
Paid with paypal and got the link on my mailbox straight away. installation went flawlessly.
Quick and easy purchase.

[Thunderbolt]

:ernae:

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_077.jpg

[MDIvey]

Thanks for suggestion

I'll double check that.

Matt

[MDIvey]

I do apologise to John and Co... an over zealous spam filter on the part of my ISP was preventing the email coming through. Got it now.

Matt

[JAllen]

I bought the Little Friends package and it is great stuff. All the other P-51D's are in the retirement hangar now. Have to read the manual now before I fly again.

Jim

[olderndirt]

In a bit of a quandary here. Initially, my spam filter was blocking emails but eventually got a download link. Here's the confusion - the download calls itself "upload33448P-51D" 356MB warbirdsim.com. It appears to be an application file and I can't do anything with it. Now I'm playing the 'jump through your hat' game' with sales@warbirdsim - they wan't me to change browsers (firefox). Anybody know what I should be doing?

[jankees]

I had the same thing, just add .zip to the rear of the filename and you'll be right..

€ 35 for four little antenna's on a model I have already, I must be out of my mind...oh well

OK, heading 180 for 3 hours and we should see the island....

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11799.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

I had the same thing, just add .zip to the rear of the filename and you'll be right

I knew you couldn't pass on it....lol :salute:

[olderndirt]

I had the same thing, just add .zip to the rear of the filename and you'll be rightCall me stupid but I'm just spinning my wheels. Where exactly does the .zip go? Show an example.

[jankees]

'upload33448P-51D' becomes 'upload33448P-51D.zip', do it in windows explorer, rename.


I knew you couldn't pass on it....lol :salute:

yes, but I still feel like an idiot.

All I really need now is the A2A version, how far are you guys, Scott?

[olderndirt]

'upload33448P-51D' becomes 'upload33448P-51D.zip', do it in windows explorer, rename.Got it - thanks for the assist.

[skyhawka4m]

Don't feel like an idiot my friend......you have contru=ibuted alot to these awesome planes and I know you'll be pumping out some great stuff at some point once we have a paint kit. I know I have a few to do myself.

[Bomber_12th]

Wow! I'm not the world's biggest fan of the P-51. It's not that I have anything against the P-51, but I really prefer round engines. That being said and having written a review of another FSX P-51D, I must say, that based on the screen shots, that this appears to be one heck of a great addition to FSX. It looks like Warbirdsim took their time, researched the subject, and presented the FSX community with a great P-51D. :applause::applause::applause::applause:

Thank you, Stansdds!

Research for the P-51D, at many times, has seemed to be about 75% of the actual time investment - hunting down photos, looking through blueprints, and purchasing those hard-to-find, but most beneficial publications.

One of the best publications you can find on the inner and outer details of the P-51D, can be found here: http://www.amazon.com/NORTH-AMERICAN-P-51D-MUSTANG-MMP/dp/8389450607/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1310179069&sr=8-1

[Bomber_12th]

For each of the paint schemes covered in this product, we strived to push the level of accuracy that could be achieved, to match the original aircraft with exacting care as perhaps not seen before.

One of the areas I enjoyed the most, was recreating the original artwork painted on the aircraft, in high-resolution, before applying the artwork to the textures, to ensure a high level of accuracy and clarity. Having studied typography in college for a time, it was amazing to recreate this bit of history in typographical format as well.

Here is just one example:

The original 'Baby Duck':

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/baby_duck_original.jpg

Recreated nose art, drawn from original high-resolution version of photo above:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/baby_duck_recreated.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Iwo Jima Mustangs differed from all others during WWII, being either retrofitted in the field, or being part of a select number of late-model Mustangs produced, with what was referred to as the 'Uncle Dog' antenna configuration.

The external modifications are outlined in this drawing, as follows:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/twinantenna.jpg

A factory-new, late model, Dallas-produced P-51D-30-NT, flying above Dallas, TX in 1945, sporting the 'Uncle Dog' antenna configuration:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/45-11742TestFlight_000_overDallasTX.jpg

A photo that nicely illustrates the twin antennas on the spine of the aircraft, as well as the special access panel that was also added, in order to allow servicing of the antenna units:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/540-1.jpg

In order to allow the Mustang to fly the full escort coverage to Japan and back, 110-gallon drop tanks were used by Iwo-based Mustang units. Note the use of wooden sway braces, and associated hardware, in this photo:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/342-FH-3A-42499-64872AC_78th_fs_120_vivacious_vivian_.jpg

Now finally seen in flight-sim skies for the first time:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Enchantress_2.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51D_Enchantress3.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/p51_img8.jpg

[SADT]

Hi John, are we actually able to make use of this extra radio equipment in sim? Have you installed receiver gauges? Congrats on the release BTW :-)

Craig :-)

[Bomber_12th]

During P-51D production, there were numbers of 'Tech Orders' that were made, that saw to it to improve the qualities of the aircraft, however important or minute they may be. These T.O.'s would be reflected, not only during P-51D production, but also applied to Mustangs 'in the field' as well (likely depending greatly by their importance).

For example, one such T.O., instructed the moving of the beacon receiver, from the previous mounting configuration that saw it seated on the right floor board, to a new mounting bracket, fitted just beneath the main electrical panel on the right side of the cockpit. This modification worked itself into mostly late-production D's.

Here are some 'snips' from the original T.O. document, outlining this modification (which also provides very nice blue-print drawings for manufacturing the brackets for the re-fit, and as used when modeling this detail).

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/beacon_receiver1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/beacon_receiver2.jpg

And as recreated between variants within Warbirdsim's "Little Friends":

Before the mod:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img6.jpg

After the mod:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cockpit_img9.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Hi John, are we actually able to make use of this extra radio equipment in sim? Have you installed receiver gauges? Congrats on the release BTW :-)

Craig :-)

Hi Craig,

Unfortunately no - however within the cockpit of "Enchantress", you will find the I.F.F. and An/ARA-8 control set/panel and switches, accurately recreated and selectable.

[Bomber_12th]

An original in-cockpit image from within an Iwo Jima-based 506th FG P-51D Mustang:

(Note: inspection stamps on gunsight, inspection sticker on center electical panel, instruments configuration, controls configuration, instrument panel shroud without later stiffeners, etc.)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P51DPlt7thAF.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

In select units of the 8th Fighter Command (in England), formation lead/flight lead P-51D's were sometimes seen to have been modified with the addition of two amber lights, mounted to the fuselage, on each side, to serve as formation guidence aids. It was quite a rare modification, and I am not exactly sure if it either was done at the base of operations, or undertaken at one of the bigger USAAF depots in England. The lights themselves were the standard-issue amber recognition lights (as seen on the lower wingtips and undersurfaces of many Allied aircraft), and in order to control the lights, an additional toggle switch was mounted near to the exisiting recognition lights switches, on the main electrical panel.

In one of the featured variants of the product, "Butch Baby", this is fully recreated, as shown:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/formationlights.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/formationlightsswitch.jpg

[Thunderbolt]

:medals:

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_095.jpg

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_096.jpg

[jankees]

well lookee here:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11812.jpg

my paints work with this version as well!

[Phantom88]

Im very impressed with the detailed work! Beautiful job.:salute:

[Thunderbolt]

nice Jankees :applause:

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_099.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

well lookee here:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11812.jpg

my paints work with this version as well!

Unfortunately, not quite...without the new texture templates in use, there are no correct textures for the new exhaust stacks, for the new inner exhaust stack shrouds, for the aerial antenna wire parts, for the gun bay door handles, the new drop tanks, etc. The new paintkit also allows you to easily achieve a more correct finish for an in-the-field, combat-vet, WWII-era Mustang.

I will be contacting those who have requested a paintkit, today. ; )

[Bomber_12th]

Excellent screenshots, Thunderbolt!! Keep them coming, if you can! ; )

[Bomber_12th]

With a little bit of a connection to this product, the restored P-51D, painted as "Baby Duck", flew again for the first time yesterday, following years of storage, and more recently, a two-year restoration program. The aircraft will be getting new paint soon, but will remain as "Baby Duck" - if I understand it correctly. It will be at Oshkosh later this month!

The markings on the restored example, are quite close to the original.

http://warbirdinformationexchange.org/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=41689

And Warbirdsim's depiction, based on two wartime photos of this aircraft.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BabyDuck_4.jpg

[Thunderbolt]

:icon_lol: :applause:

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_109.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

SHANGHI LIL....in progress.....slightly cleaner than the supplied aircraft.....for now anyway....now she's at about 90%...some details to iron out...


42904

[bruce448]

Detroit Miss


42885


colour to be added to the wing tips and completion of the D-Day stripe to the doors below.



Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

Detroit Miss


42885



Bruce

nice!!!!

[dvj]

I didn't need another $50 payware, but Wow!...... so nice it is...

[skyhawka4m]

ok....well this is for tonight.....hope to finish in the AM....

42917

[jankees]

My first attempt at using the paintkit:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11874.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11881.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11886.jpg

[warchild]

These alll look fantastic guys.. Almost makes me wish i liked mustangs.. Keep up the great work :)
Pam

[dvj]

Keep those Warbirds flying

[bruce448]

Once authorised by the mods here's the link http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?catid=3&linkid=4309


42943


Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

next up...LITTLE ONE/JEANNIE.....this will be the second of a 3 pack of 506th aircraft

42945

A few changes to make yet...but about 95%

and SANGHI LIL is complete....

42950

[olderndirt]

John Terrell's repaint.

4296642967

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you for posting those screenshots, Olderndirt, and I'm glad to see that repaint being used!

Here are some photos of the original aircaft:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/DadPlane6.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/DadPlane4.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/mymac4a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/mymac1a.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

As asked about in another forum, here is a brief run-down on the modeled Merlin V-1650-7 engine supercharger, as included in "Little Friends".

First off, this feature requires you to have Acceleration installed, in order for the supercharger modeling to work (if you don't have Acceleration installed, there are alternative flight dynamics files contained for use).

From at sea-level, you will be able to achieve 67-in MP, at full-throttle. With the engine damage modeled in, however, you won't be able to run more than 61-in MP, for more than 5-10 minutes, before your engine begins failing. As you ascend to altitude, eventually full-throttle will only allow you to maintain 46-in MP (max climb power), by the time you reach 17,500 ft. At the 17,500 ft mark, high blower automatically switches ON, and you can see it, feel it, and hear it, all at the same time. When high blower comes on, you will suddenly get a great boost in power, now allowing you again to attain 67-in MP at full-throttle. A red-indicator light also comes on, to let you know that the supercharger is in high blower (though you will know otherwise as well! : ) ). When this happens, you of course have to adjust the throttle back to proper settings, so that you won't be over boosting the engine. The extra power you get at high blower, will then allow you to climb up and perform at regular combat heights of 25,000-30,000 ft. If you are lucky, and have the aircraft very lightly loaded, you can even just barely achieve the aircraft's highest recorded service ceiling, of roughly 41,900 ft, by which point you will be able to achieve about 28-in MP at full throttle.

As discussed within the flight manual portion of the Little Friends user guide, max-recommended power at take off is 61-in MP. However, 'normal take off' power is as low as 46-in MP! For me, I usually use either 50-in MP, or 55-in MP, depending on the aircraft's loading, which is more than sufficient.

[jankees]

and since we're all into yellow noses, I thought I'd throw this one in the new paintkit as well..

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11904.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11892.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11891.jpg

[bruce448]

For those of you who are under the age of 18 or easily offended turn off now,....

once approved by the mods here's the link http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?catid=3&linkid=4310


42992

P-51D-20-NA BuNo41-2199 "Cute Nude" G4-A, 362nd FS

Bruce

[Felixthreeone]

I have been debating which warbirdsim pack to purchase; I bought the fighter leader pack for fs9, and it was really, really good. This 'Little friends' pack has my attention, though. Anyone care to offer an opinion on which I should start with?

[Bomber_12th]

Bruce, have you seen this recently released photo of that aircraft?

http://www.airliners.net/photo/USA---Air/North-American-P-51D/1894622/L/&sid=6a3b57177f31794407c8875b43d14de8

(Note that the best possible model for it, would be that of "The Millie G", due to the P-38 mirror mounted to the canopy. This photo of the aircraft was taken after VE-day, as you can see the aircraft's registration painted under the wing as well. This was something that wasn't done until after the end of the war in Europe. The glare shield has also been re-painted by the 357th FG, in RAF Dark Green.)

The previous photo is part of a set of images that are newly-developed from original slides. Here is another as well:

http://www.airliners.net/photo/USA---Air/North-American-P-51D/1882507/L/&sid=6a3b57177f31794407c8875b43d14de8

I also have a few more on my computer from the set. Note that the 357th FG colors appear lighter in these photos, than what I was working from with Butch Baby.

(BTW: I hope there isn't too much rushing to get repaints done? Would love to see them all handled with the most level of care and accuracy possible. ; ) )

[Bomber_12th]

Here are some of the other images from the set:

(Note the use of RAF dark green and USAAF neutral grey, applied by the 357th FG, and inconsistencies between the checkerboard patterns, and the individual widths of the prop spinner stripes.)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DPassionWagonColor.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DWeaverincolor.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DWessWickedWenchLeiston.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DMaryAlicefront357FGAtleeManthos.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

@ Matt.....

Matt it all depends on what you are looking for. With each set things have changed. The last set are stock aircraft upto the late WW2 variants. the first and second releases were of restored variants with the currently used cockpits. Myself I love the MUSTANG and could do without them. as a heads up I will be doing ANG aircraft using this set with the IWO bird and the -25 variant in the third set and it will include one or two PA ANG aircraft....since you are from Pa like myself....:salute:

[skyhawka4m]

Here are some of the other images from the set:

(Note the use of RAF dark green and USAAF neutral grey, applied by the 357th FG, and inconsistencies between the checkerboard patterns, and the individual widths of the prop spinner stripes.)

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DPassionWagonColor.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DWeaverincolor.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DWessWickedWenchLeiston.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-51DMaryAlicefront357FGAtleeManthos.jpg


AHHH YES.......good ole Passion Wagon...this and FRENESI are my fav's!

[bruce448]

This any better John?


43024


She's even dyed her hair this evening.

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

looks great bruce!

[hammer353]

Could someone do two repaints one for "Moonbeam McSwine" and the other one for "Never Miss". I do have some photos for Never Miss, i just need to upload them from my camera.

Michael

[Merlin216]

Sad to report that I think we lost the real "Big Beautiful Doll" today at Duxford. I have no news sources to confirm this, just a forum thread at Airliners.net and a video of the accident (does not clearly show the aircraft). Someone reported that Big Beautiful Doll was the Mustang involved, and it does seem to look like it in the video, just hard to tell.


http://www.airliners.net/aviation-forums/military/read.main/136143/ (http://[URL)

Youtube Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qME7VefLxFw)

[wallydog]

Sad to hear... found this article on the incident

http://www.cambridgefirst.co.uk/news/crash_at_duxford_air_show_1_958563

[skyhawka4m]

http://youtu.be/qME7VefLxFw

[jankees]

some amazing pics here: http://forum.scramble.nl/viewtopic.php?f=41&t=75882

[WarBert]

Was at Legends yesterday and witnessed the sad loss of the now German Big Beautiful Doll.
I Had just taken some shots of the formation and thought, those guys look real close.
As quickly as I could think it, almost like in a bad dream, it happened. I then decided not to shoot any more photos and standing there in shock watched as the Skyraider after completing a roll with 4ft of wing missing started to dive, he pulled up very quickly and started a circuit to land. I turned to the south to witness the P-51D dive behind the trees. Somebody shouted he's out. Pilot Rob Davies had escaped. Probably only a couple of hundred feet up.

Shocking thing to see, but everybody got away with their lives.
Thank God.

Albert
www.warbirdsim.com (http://www.warbirdsim.com)

[skyhawka4m]

part 3 of my 506 skins. Once I have all 3 tuned I will release them....any feedback is welcome. This is a work in progress.....


43149

[Quicksand]

John, Ive bought every Mustang you've modelled so far, and will glady buy any you do in the future.. I'll never get to sit in or much less fly a Mustang, but when I strap on these virtual gems, my imagination runs wild and I am there.. I don't think anything is missing but the smells.. You have modelled everything else here! I thank you for your dedication to our hobby, and to the legacy that is the P-51.. I am so happy with these planes, especially the last "Little Friends" package (because I really prefer the wartime aura), that I cannot fly them enough.. I hope at some point you or one of the talented repainters in our community will honor us with a rendition of "Cripes A'Mighty".. That would be icing on the cake for me as a member of the Preddy Memorial Foundation.. This is an outstanding model in every respect, and I see many hours that I will be poking holes in the clouds with her.. Such a joy to fly! Thanks John and to Warbirdsim... Now, back to putting some hours on this beauty... :salute::medals::icon29::USA-flag::applause:

[skyhawka4m]

John, Ive bought every Mustang you've modelled so far, and will glady buy any you do in the future.. I'll never get to sit in or much less fly a Mustang, but when I strap on these virtual gems, my imagination runs wild and I am there.. I don't think anything is missing but the smells.. You have modelled everything else here! I thank you for your dedication to our hobby, and to the legacy that is the P-51.. I am so happy with these planes, especially the last "Little Friends" package (because I really prefer the wartime aura), that I cannot fly them enough.. I hope at some point you or one of the talented repainters in our community will honor us with a rendition of "Cripes A'Mighty".. That would be icing on the cake for me as a member of the Preddy Memorial Foundation.. This is an outstanding model in every respect, and I see many hours that I will be poking holes in the clouds with her.. Such a joy to fly! Thanks John and to Warbirdsim... Now, back to putting some hours on this beauty... :salute::medals::icon29::USA-flag::applause:

this is on my list of planes to do.

[Quicksand]

Bless you Skyhawk.. Those who know me here know and accept that I always lean toward this particular aircraft to be painted for each Pony that is released. The reason is that I have always been awed by the Preddy family's sacrifice in WWII, with George killed by friendly fire on Christmas Day 1944, and then his younger brother Bill killed so close to the end of the war, both while flying Mustangs.. .. I thank you for considering this paint... :salute::medals:

[bruce448]

'Ol Flak Joe

43163

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

Bless you Skyhawk.. Those who know me here know and accept that I always lean toward this particular aircraft to be painted for each Pony that is released. The reason is that I have always been awed by the Preddy family's sacrifice in WWII, with George killed by friendly fire on Christmas Day 1944, and then his younger brother Bill killed so close to the end of the war, both while flying Mustangs.. .. I thank you for considering this paint... :salute::medals:

Once I get the artwork together I'll get it done. I am most likely going to paint the scheme that had the yellow Cripes on the nose. I've also found another BBD variation other than what John T. has and will be releasing.

[skyhawka4m]

'Ol Flak Joe

43163

Bruce


Love the 357th aircraft!!!

[Bomber_12th]

Once I get the artwork together I'll get it done. I am most likely going to paint the scheme that had the yellow Cripes on the nose. I've also found another BBD variation other than what John T. has and will be releasing.

357th FG, or 55th FG? :) When with the 55th FG, Landers was assigned a P-51D for the first time, and this became the first "BBD". When he was transferred to the 357th, the aircraft came with him, changing group markings, but keeping the same personal markings. When he went to the 78th FG, he was assigned a new P-51D, which became the most famous of Landers' Big Beautiful Doll schemes, and it is his 78th FG P-51D that followed him when he was transferred to the 361st. So two different P-51D's, with four different paint schemes between them!

55th FG - yellow/green nose colors

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/cg-o.jpg

357th FG -

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/b6-o4.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Great to see the repaints coming together, Bruce, John, and Jan Kees!

I actually have all of the layers for the paint scheme of Preddy's last "Cripes A' Mighty" completed, as it was the day it was lost in December 1944. Unfortunately there isn't quite a correct model to apply it to, but as long as that is okay, I'll see what I can do tomorrow. This is the first Mustang for any flight sim that I am aware of, that allows you to properly and fully recreate the markings of "Cripes A' Mighty", with the barbershop pole graphics around the aircraft - due in large part, because I used it as a 'test scheme' throughout early development. : )

I have also had plans for Preddy's more famous Cripes A' Mighty 3rd, but that's for another day, down the road (P-51D-5-NA - i.e., no dorsal fin fillet (and a hundred other differences inside and out, compared to later-model D's) - you can take that as a hint of possible things to come!)... ; )

[skyhawka4m]

The BBD scheme I am reerring to has I think 3 rows of checkers on the wing tips, to forward section of the fin cap is alsoblack along with the vert. stab, and has a red name bock on the canopy. The scheme reminds me of the "SHERMAN WAS RIGHT" scheme. The date of the sheme is summer 1944, with the 78th.


Here's 2 shots of HEL-ETER....all finsihed I believe......

43176


43175

[Bomber_12th]

Looking great John! Remember though, that the paint applied in the field, would cover up factory-applied stencils/stencil sealant, so there are a lot of stencils in the rear-fuselage/tail area that would not be present, because they were over-painted by the tail colors. All of the changes and markings that you do in with the base textures, should also then of course be reflected in both the spec maps and alpha channels as well.

- One exception about stencils, is a few groups, like the 357th FG, re-applied specific stencils on aircraft they painted.

[Bomber_12th]

One thing I noticed while recreating the 78th FG "Big Beauitful Doll", is that there has been a number of incorrect depictions of the scheme, in various profiles, artwork, and in past flight sim versions. In some cases, it almost has looked as if the creators of said-works, haven't even used actual research to portray the scheme, rather simply pulled together things from their imagination, or from other's inaccurate work. The way the Warbirdsim "BBD" is depicted, is exactly how the aircraft looked at the very end of its 78th FG service, using all of the available photos and most latest research from the original. Within the 78th FG, Landers only ever had the one "Big Beautiful Doll", so while there were a few changes to the scheme through Landers' time in the 78th, it was more of a development-over-time, reaching the final look at the end of Landers' time with the 78th, rather than significant scheme differences. Of all of the original wartime photos I have seen of BBD within the 78th FG, it never looked any different than as depicted in Warbirdsim's recreation, other than the changing of minor detals, like the scoreboard, and rank on the canopy frame.

Some have stated that in one of the earliest photos of the 78th FG "BBD", that the background color behind the name on the canopy was yellow, due to how light the shade is within the B&W photo. Well, in the exact same photo, the red paint on the nose, on the chin scoop, and around the checkerboard markings, is also very, very light - in fact being the same shade as the background of the name on the canopy - thus it was red all along.

Here are just some of the images of the original 78th FG "Big Beautiful Doll", that I scrounged together when researching the scheme:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Image2-1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Big_Beautiful_Doll_Nose-735x609.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_Jack_D_Landers-718x870.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/wz-i.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/44-72218WZ-IBigBeautifulDoll_a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Col_Landers_and_Crew_BBD_Page_1-748x584.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Note how in this photo, you can most clearly see the design of the red border that extends around the anti-glare shield, as well as the red border around the black name plate in front of the windscreen.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_Jack_D_Landers-718x870.jpg

And another similar close-up, with a different pilot.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Col_Stephenson-519x690.jpg

[Thunderbolt]

:)

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_110.jpg

http://i1180.photobucket.com/albums/x413/D-reg/S_108.jpg

[Cirrus N210MS]

very Nice Guys! I may have to Pickup This Bird! soon

[skyhawka4m]

Thanks john....as to the textures......I understand and will correct the stencils. As for the alpha I've not found an easy whay to do this...I have corrected for the tail colors with the appropriate white....the rest I will have to work on.

[gatlin7]

One thing I noticed while recreating the 78th FG "Big Beauitful Doll", is that there has been a number of incorrect depictions of the scheme, in various profiles, artwork, and in past flight sim versions. In some cases, it almost has looked as if the creators of said-works, haven't even used actual research to portray the scheme, rather simply pulled together things from their imagination, or from other's inaccurate work. The way the Warbirdsim "BBD" is depicted, is exactly how the aircraft looked at the very end of its 78th FG service, using all of the available photos and most latest research from the original. Within the 78th FG, Landers only ever had the one "Big Beautiful Doll", so while there were a few changes to the scheme through Landers' time in the 78th, it was more of a development-over-time, reaching the final look at the end of Landers' time with the 78th, rather than significant scheme differences. Of all of the original wartime photos I have seen of BBD within the 78th FG, it never looked any different than as depicted in Warbirdsim's recreation, other than the changing of minor detals, like the scoreboard, and rank on the canopy frame.

Some have stated that in one of the earliest photos of the 78th FG "BBD", that the background color behind the name on the canopy was yellow, due to how light the shade is within the B&W photo. Well, in the exact same photo, the red paint on the nose, on the chin scoop, and around the checkerboard markings, is also very, very light - in fact being the same shade as the background of the name on the canopy - thus it was red all along.

Here are just some of the images of the original 78th FG "Big Beautiful Doll", that I scrounged together when researching the scheme:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Image2-1.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Big_Beautiful_Doll_Nose-735x609.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_Jack_D_Landers-718x870.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/wz-i.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/44-72218WZ-IBigBeautifulDoll_a.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Col_Landers_and_Crew_BBD_Page_1-748x584.jpg

John, in the very last image you included, the name on the canopy frame is most definitely different from the others. The name appears black instead of white, and the background looks significantly lighter than the red shadow-shading of the nose art. Perhaps this is where the possibility of yellow has entered the conversation. At any rate, I prefer the texture you created/emulated for this plane. Absolutely beautiful work all around! :applause:

[ColinT46]

Have been trying to buy this product for over 6 hours having registered my email address. Still waiting for activation confirmation before I can order it.

Does anybody here know how long this process should take.

Colin

[jankees]

either check your spam box, or, like me, you received a download that still needs the extension .zip for it to work.

[Bomber_12th]

Colin, it is all instant, the way the purchase/activation system works, so if it does not show up in your e-mail inbox right away, make sure to check you spam folder. If nothing there, then contact Warbirdsim support. ; )

[ColinT46]

Colin, it is all instant, the way the purchase/activation system works, so if it does not show up in your e-mail inbox right away, make sure to check you spam folder. If nothing there, then contact Warbirdsim support. ; )

Have sent 2 emails already but no response. Maybe I should re-register with my secondary email account.

Colin

[ColinT46]

Colin, it is all instant, the way the purchase/activation system works, so if it does not show up in your e-mail inbox right away, make sure to check you spam folder. If nothing there, then contact Warbirdsim support. ; )

Thanks guys,
Was another spam filter problem. Not had this before from any other FS Payware site.
Interesting to read about the zip addendum to the file.
Anyway downloading now.

For Yankees: Keep up the great paints you do. I have lots of your paints on other planes.

Colin.

[jankees]

For Jankees: Keep up the great paints you do.
Colin.

OK Kolin, if you insist (still work in progress..):

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11954.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11945.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11948.jpg

I think the piano keys of the 20th FG are about the coolest of colors on the P-51, so, another one, KI-B "Josephine" as flown by Lt. Joe Peterburs of the 55th FS/20th FG, based in Kingscliffe, UK.
On 10 april 1945, while on his 49th mission, he shot down a Me 262, piloted by Oberleunant Walter Schuck, a top German Ace with 206 confirmed air victories. Later that same day, while strafing an airfield, he was shot down by flak and was captured. He managed to escape, reach the Russian army, and fought with the Russians in the battle of Wittenburg. More on Joe Peterburs on his website: http://www.joepeterburs.com/

[UnknownGuest12]

A gem and expensive as a jewel...
When I see this kind of prices always wonder about a balance between sales numbers and profits...High price better profit per unit, less units sold. Lower prices more units sold. I know everybody should get fair revenues for a good work done. Simply, I can´t afford to pay for this one. Bought CS 707 and B-52 for 10.98 € on a sale. Anyway got P-51 already...
For sure better people than myself on this matters studied this relation price/market/sales and the effect on piracy mentioned on their site...

[Bomber_12th]

Very nice work, Jan Kees, really looking forward to 'Josephine"!

I have had an interest in the 20th FG for a while now too, ever since getting involved with recreating "HJGB" back on the original P-51D release. I always have liked the OD/RAF green over bare aluminum look on the P-51D as well.

[jankees]

Glad you like it, John.
Say, did you change anything with the reflections of the canopy? Made it slightly softer or something? I think they look perfect now!

Here's a small update, and me enjoying the reflections:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11969.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11965.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11963.jpg

most of the 20th FG ones with painted wings were D-5 models though...same with the 357th two toners.

[Bomber_12th]

A gem and expensive as a jewel...
When I see this kind of prices always wonder about a balance between sales numbers and profits...High price better profit per unit, less units sold. Lower prices more units sold. I know everybody should get fair revenues for a good work done. Simply, I can´t afford to pay for this one. Bought CS 707 and B-52 for 10.98 € on a sale. Anyway got P-51 already...
For sure better people than myself on this matters studied this relation price/market/sales and the effect on piracy mentioned on their site...

Beaufighter, I can understand where you are coming from. It is always going to be one of those areas of question for each product release - it seems like it comes up with every new product, no matter whose releasing it, and for what price. You head into the product release, knowing the vast sum of time and investments you made to get it to the point at which it is when finished, and you know roughly what you need to make from sales-returns, not only in order to make the investment worth it, but to be able to actually continue onto the next project okay.

These are the most accurate depictions ever seen in any virtual form, of the P-51D Mustang - nothing about them is casually done to give you a 'generalized impression' of the aircraft, as which has been seen time and time before. What you see, is directly reproduced from what it really is - though I know not many people want to hear me go into that again, about every last detail (Albert and I could easily write a book on the Mustang, through all that we have been through and learned during this and prior products). You are completely free to make your own comparisons between this product, and other renditions of the P-51D - if I were to do so here, I would of course get into hot water.

All that I want to end by saying, is that when considering the cost, try and understand the investment involved in achieving what you see in the product. ; )

[Bomber_12th]

Say, did you change anything with the reflections of the canopy? Made it slightly softer or something? I think they look perfect now!

Jan Kees, good eye! I did come up with a new 'recipe' for making the canopy glass, which goes completely against what Microsoft has outlined for glass material in their SDK. It is very similar I have found, to what FSD was able to achieve with the glass on their P-38 Lightning.

I'm glad you like it, and great screenshots yet again of your paint-work in action!

These images show the various conditions that might be seen, of the canopy reflection/shine, in different lighting conditions and camera-proximity to the canopy:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/LiveBait_6.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/LiveBait_5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/mymac3a.jpg

[aeronca1]

All that I want to end by saying, is that when considering the cost, try and understand the investment involved in achieving what you see in the product. ; )

I am not a developer for $$$, but I really understand what you're saying. I have been working on a FIAT G.59 series for years, and with HD crashes, many restarts, etc., the numbers involved are astronomical. If I had even considered a payware release when this is finished, no amount would recoup more than a nominal payment considering the time and effort involved. Seeing your screenshots, I suspect this is more a labour of love than a money making project.

[Bomber_12th]

Sometimes the canopy shine, helps establish the screenshot:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/BBD_1.jpg

[bruce448]

43374

My next instalment, Ace of Clubs

Bruce

[ColinT46]

Just gotta love the way the pilot dips his head when the canopy opens.

Amazing detail on these paints as well.

Looking forward to the gun bays. :salute:

[Bomber_12th]

Excellent, Bruce! There were two different (though now three, evidently!) mid-late model P-51D's that Maj. Donald Bochkay had painted as "Ace of Spades" (besides his earliest D-5 and B-model). Note how the "Ace of Spades" design changed from one, to the other. The design as seen on your repaint, would be correct for 44-72244, rather than 44-15422.

Seen here is 44-15422

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/b6-f4.jpg

And here is his later 44-72244

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/b6-f5.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/b6-f8.jpg

[bruce448]

John,
Isn't the last picture out of the 3 a K model, and a different BuNo?


Bruce

[Bomber_12th]

Sorry about that Bruce, I have the third labeled as 72244, but obviously it is not! : )

44-72147, I have actually seen reported as being a 339th FG Mustang! In any case, it is a D-model, and obviously was with the 357th, at some point, and assigned to Bochkay as well.

I do still have the second photo down, listed as being of 44-72244:
http://www.cebudanderson.com/357profilewingedaced.htm

Based on the other photos shown, I would assume that the numbers on the rudder of 72244 were black, just as on the others asssigned to Bochkay, though there still seems to be a level of question about that remaining.

[UnknownGuest12]

Hi John Terrel</SPAN></SPAN>
What can I say? Entirely agree with every word you say…</SPAN></SPAN>
Quality is up, prices are up. Not difficult to understand that kind of relation. </SPAN></SPAN>
I know that a Mercedes is a better car than my Fiat Grand Punto Sport., the one I can afford, the best... :icon_lol: </SPAN></SPAN>
Would like to have a Mercedes…not going to steal one. Would buy it if cheaper. </SPAN></SPAN>
Best wishes </SPAN></SPAN>

[Cirrus N210MS]

whats the price on this plane in USD? $$$:salute:

[jankees]

more camo over bare metal: QP-J of major Hively of the 4th FG (still WiP):

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11987.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX11998.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12000.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12003.jpg

[jankees]

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12042.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

very nice!!!! I have one question....I've never seen the red painted this way on the nose....I've only ever seen it painted this way......


http://www.aikensairplanes.com/corgi pics/WB99634_P51_Mustang.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

John, for a while, early on, that is how all of the 4th FG nose markings appeared as. It was changed to the later style, likely so as to make the group colors more apparent from further distances - which is the same reason why at a certain point, the group markings of other fighter units changed to cover more of the nose as well.

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/wd-c2.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/vf-s.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

roger that.....stand corrected

[Bomber_12th]

When P-51D's were just starting to arrive in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region>, they were all painted with specific recognition markings. This included the black stripes on the wings, on the horizontal tail surfaces, and on the vertical tail surfaces. At the same time, the nose, from the spinner back to just before the exhaust shrouds, was also painted black. You can see this very clearly in this photo of a Mustang that had just been made available for group-assignment in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England, following the last of the work and test-flights done on it, after its arrival.</st1:place></st1:country-region>

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/44-135578thUSAAFcolour.jpg

Each Fighter Group in <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">England</st1:place></st1:country-region> was assigned a specific color, or two-color pattern, for use in providing group-identification. Early on, this usually meant using the colors to just simply over-paint the black-painted nose - creating markings that covered the spinner, to the start of the exhaust shrouds.

Over time it was realized, that by having the group markings only covering this small part of the nose, it was making it more difficult to recognize one group from another, or recognizing friend from foe, from far distances, than it had to be. It was then devised to extend the group markings to cover more of the nose. You can see this very clearly in groups such as the 353rd, 352nd, 4th, 20th, 359th, 361st, etc.

[jankees]

...and so, in the 4th FG, at first they extended the red further back, as in my paint, and later still, in early 1945, they extended it even further, like in the picture you see.
This aircraft was the only D model with the 4th FG that had camouflage paint applied to the top surfaces, while the underside was left bare metal, except on the tail (see below).
As such, it was flown by Major Howard 'the Deacon' Hively until january 1945, when he was transferred to headquarters. The aircraft then passed to Major Louis 'Red Dog' Norley, recoded to QP-O and equipped with the 1945 nose markings. I thought it would be fun to do a paint with these intermediate colors, since, as you say, the other colors are so much more common..

Picture of the underside:
http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12015.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12016.jpg

[Cirrus N210MS]

whats the the cost on this plane in usd please thanks

[jankees]

whats the the cost on this plane in usd please thanks

http://www.xe.com/ucc/

[Barnes]

I have bought all of the Warbirdsim P-51 packages now and believe them to be superior and raise the benchmark in FSX payware.

Thanks to all involved and now to Jankees for the excellent repaints

:applause::applause::applause:

[MudMarine]

I spent fifty bucks of my hard earned money on this Stang.....I don't regret it for a second. Beautiful work guys!

[jankees]

... and now to Jankees for the excellent repaints

well, you can now, I just uploaded the paints below to OZx, I hope you'll enjoy them.
If you do, could you post a few screenshots perhaps?
I'll be gone for a few weeks, we'll see about more paints later...

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12096.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12080.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12078.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12072.jpg

edit: could be I ignored the drop tanks a bit too much, sorry about that. Just drop them...

[Barnes]

Thanks again Jankees :salute:

[hammer353]

Jankees could you possible do Moonbeam McSwine, Never Miss and Glamorous Gal.

Michael

[jankees]

Jankees could you possible do Moonbeam McSwine, Never Miss and Glamorous Gal.

Michael

You're not greedy, are you?

no modern day warbirds, sorry.
A WW2 Moonbeam, sure, but you need lots of patience, weeks at least...

[Bomber_12th]

As Jan Kees has noted, there isn't to be any repaints of current-day warbirds - I don't believe Never Miss is a historical scheme, and Glamorous Gal is definitely not. This isn't to say that you might not see these in the future! ; )

[Bomber_12th]

By the way, I still need to get around to start downloading all of these repaints that have been released! Thank you again to all that have been contributing them!

[hammer353]

Thank you Jankees

[jankees]

OK, so I made a mistake in the droptank textures in the last three repaints: "Josephine", "Scat #5" & "QP-J". This has been rectified, and an update is available here (http://aussiex.org/forum/index.php?/files/file/1824-warbirdsim-droptank-update/), sorry about that!

JanKees

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12098a.jpg

[bruce448]

My Achin' Back pt1

this scheme is when it served with 334th FS, 4th FG

43602

I will upload tomorrow.

Pt2 to follow 38th FS, 55th FG

Bruce

[jankees]

and a final one from me:

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12129.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12134.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12140.jpg

'Eileen', piloted by Captain John C. Conn, of the 74th FS/23rd FG, 1945.

[Meso]

This is a great add-on! and the repaints look really nice.

I only have the 1st package, are the new repaints also suitable for that model? or is the mapping completely different whcih i think makes sense with all the small differences per variant.

the glass reflection on the latest model is also really nice, is there an update planned for the earlier packages?

kind regards

Meso

[Barnes]

Bruce and Jankees are spoiling us - thanks guys :jump:

[dvj]

I don't have enough HDD space for all these repaints! :medals:

[huub vink]

'Eileen', piloted by Captain John C. Conn, of the 74th FS/23rd FG, 1945.

Very nice repaint JanKees!

For me Eileen was a girl from Bath (Somerset UK) who visited the seaside resort I live in in the mid-seventies with her school :icon_lol:....... Your repaint just reminded me to the girl and those lovely days without worries in the mid-seventies.

Clearly your repaint is a must for me!

Thanks,
Huub

[Cag40Navy]

Anyone willing to make a few captured P-51 Paint's? Maybe Red and Yellow.... and Blue. :mixedsmi: :icon29: :guinness:

[bruce448]

My Achin' Back pt2

38th FS 55th FG

43800

Bruce

[Bomber_12th]

Very interesting selection there, Bruce, I had never seen that Mustang outside of the 4th! Obviously this is the way the aircraft looked very late in its service, with the stripes on the rear fuselage being 'Occupation Stripes', applied to Mustangs based in Germany following VE-Day.

[bruce448]

Very interesting selection there, Bruce, I had never seen that Mustang outside of the 4th! Obviously this is the way the aircraft looked very late in its service, with the stripes on the rear fuselage being 'Occupation Stripes', applied to Mustangs based in Germany following VE-Day.


John, Heres a Phot

43803

Bruce

[Bomber_12th]

Bruce, awesome photograph, and very well captured in your repaint! The markings are quite varied, aren't they!? The lack of 55th FG checkers on two of the cowl panels, is a bit curious. And it looks like there is a stripe/band of color, that flows with the anti-glare shield, but stops at the end of the engine cowling (that is chipping away) - I would suspect that this stripe/band may be red, as on the 55th FG Mustangs 'Millie G', 'Miss Marilyn II', and others - as there may have been some bits added from another, older 55th FG Mustang (back from the days of the 'Millie G' style paint scheme), that was in disposal/parted-out - those being the top cowling panels, and forward lower cowling panel. This would have provided enough of the groups checkers, as shown, without breaking-out the paint buckets, and at the same time keeping the nose art panels intact. The 'smile' chin scoop, the small cast-part in front of the lower cowling panel, may have remained red, from the aircraft's 4th FG days. It is hard to judge the color on the spinner though, which looks like it could have been over-all red, or over-all green - if there was a yellow band painted on the nose, it would show up as clearly as the yellow checkers.

It is interesting to note, that those red/yellow/red occupation stripes, were applied very precisely, as there was of course no wartime rush. They varied extremely little from one Mustang to the next, and were always very straight and precise to proper widths and placement (unlike invasion stripes).

[skyhawka4m]

I too have an occupation scheme in the works.....hopefully I can get the markings right.

[DaveQ]

Can't wait to get my hands on this one, especially the paint kit!!! Trouble is, I bought it a week and more ago but still got no d/l email. Been away so only just emailed Albert earlier today to ask for help.

Soon be painting with any luck!!

PS Great schemes from Jankees, Bruce and SkyhawkA4 BTW

PPS Helluva shame about the Duxford crashes

Regards

DaveQ

[bruce448]

This any better John?


43932

Bruce

[Bomber_12th]

Can't wait to get my hands on this one, especially the paint kit!!! Trouble is, I bought it a week and more ago but still got no d/l email. Been away so only just emailed Albert earlier today to ask for help.

Soon be painting with any luck!!

PS Great schemes from Jankees, Bruce and SkyhawkA4 BTW

PPS Helluva shame about the Duxford crashes

Regards

DaveQ

Dave, I sent you a PM. ; )

If anyone has any questions per the purchase/download system, I hope to clear some things up. The system has been working superbly well for quite some time now. It all functions automatically, and almost instantly - when you purchase the product, you should expect to see an e-mail/download link in a matter of minutes, or less. Unfortunately, despite this, when the e-mails are sent out, some select e-mail clients put them in the spam folder - and 99% of the time that you don't find the e-mail/download link within your inbox in just a short period of time following purchase, it will be in the spam folder. If for some reason a purchase goes through, and you don't receive an e-mail right away, either in your inbox or in your spam folder, we hope to have it resolved, and a new link/e-mail sent to you, within 2-7 days (though it often requires us being informed of the matter first) - accounting for how soon it can be addressed. That is the reason why when you purchase, it provides a 'cautionary' amount of time that it 'may' take, in order to get you up and running, just in-case if something goes sour with the purchase. Otherwise you should be good to go within just minutes, or less, following your purchase. ; )

[Bomber_12th]

This any better John?

Bruce, very nice! I enjoy seeing schemes from WWII B&W photos, come back to life in color for the first time, having never been reproduced before. This one in particular is quite unique.

Another thing I thought might be worth mentioning, due to how dark the green checkers/nose shows up in the photo, is that I was never able to conclude for sure, as to if the green as I used on "The Millie G" was the actual green (as portrayed on so many other Millie G depictions as well), or if it was like this, a darker, more 'forest' green, as seen on these late-war 55th FG Mustangs (note again the red stripe that follows the anti-glare shield ; ) ):

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/55thfg.jpg

[WarBert]

A short video of one of our new/old Mustangs in action.

Special thanks to Thiago at Crosshair films.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOlFEtXlKSM&feature=mfu_in_order&list=UL

Hope you like it.

Albert
www.warbirdsim.com (http://www.warbirdsim.com)

[DaveQ]

Dave, I sent you a PM. ; )

If anyone has any questions per the purchase/download system, I hope to clear some things up. The system has been working superbly well for quite some time now. It all functions automatically, and almost instantly - when you purchase the product, you should expect to see an e-mail/download link in a matter of minutes, or less. Unfortunately, despite this, when the e-mails are sent out, some select e-mail clients put them in the spam folder - and 99% of the time that you don't find the e-mail/download link within your inbox in just a short period of time following purchase, it will be in the spam folder. If for some reason a purchase goes through, and you don't receive an e-mail right away, either in your inbox or in your spam folder, we hope to have it resolved, and a new link/e-mail sent to you, within 2-7 days (though it often requires us being informed of the matter first) - accounting for how soon it can be addressed. That is the reason why when you purchase, it provides a 'cautionary' amount of time that it 'may' take, in order to get you up and running, just in-case if something goes sour with the purchase. Otherwise you should be good to go within just minutes, or less, following your purchase. ; )

Thanks John - see my PM.

This was entirely my own fault; I'd looked in the spam folder in Outlook, but there was another one only visible by going to my Sky.com email site direct. The activation email was there. Apologies to all.:redface:

Now flying. What a wonderful job!!

When the paint kit arrives first up is the signature - Lt. Col. John McGinn's 'Da Quake' of the 55th FG. This poses an interesting puzzle. This aircraft was lost in a belly landing in August 1944 but carried the 'half-and-half' scheme of the 343rd FS, the only 338th FS P-51 to do so. According to a source I now can't find (!!) McGinn was so taken with the 343rd's paint job he adopted it himself. So how come it wasn't dreamt up by Ed Gillers till the bad weather of late '44, although some photos suggest (by the clothing or lack of it) that the scheme was in use earlier than that. As you've said elsewhere, by the end of hostilities the half-and-half scheme had been abandonned though the Prancing Horse was retained on the fin at least on 343rd FS machines (see post #166). An interesting debate.

Now back to some serious playing with my lovely new toy.....!!

DaveQ

PS - There was a suggestion some years back that the remains of 'Da Quake' had been dug up from Cap Ferrat in France where it bellied in and had been dispayed for some years at Le Bourget I think. This was disputed though, since two 338th FS P-51's ran out of gas and were forced down together. It was then brought to the UK for restoration but I can't find anything more about it. Anyone here know anything? DQ

[RKinkor]

As Jan Kees has noted, there isn't to be any repaints of current-day warbirds - I don't believe Never Miss is a historical scheme, and Glamorous Gal is definitely not. This isn't to say that you might not see these in the future! ; )Just curious as to why not?

[Shift_E]

PS - There was a suggestion some years back that the remains of 'Da Quake' had been dug up from Cap Ferrat in France where it bellied in and had been dispayed for some years at Le Bourget I think. This was disputed though, since two 338th FS P-51's ran out of gas and were forced down together. It was then brought to the UK for restoration but I can't find anything more about it. Anyone here know anything? DQ

Here's a link I found on 'Da Quake'. http://www.mustangsmustangs.com/p-51/p51survivors/pages/44-13954.php

[Bomber_12th]

From all of the evidence I recall seeing, and from what I remember the owner fairly much admitting to based on the evidence presented, is that the airframe is actually 44-13663, which was piloted by Lt. John Kester. Both 13663 and "Da Quake" ended up crash-landing very close to one another. If I recall correctly, both airframes were known about, but only one was recovered, being the best option of the two, at the time of the recovery, and that was 44-13663.

It is curious about the scheme - something that I had not thought of before, because the information I shared here about "The Millie G" was taken directly from an interview with Edward Giller. In the interview he states that he worked to come up with the 'half & half' paint scheme, in "late fall". Perhaps it really took place earlier than he remembered.

[Bomber_12th]

Just curious as to why not?

RKinkor,

We'll be continuing to cover more of the story of the P-51D, both in the past and the present, through a few more P-51D installments.

[Bomber_12th]

"Da Quake" continued...

Most current information I have found, is that it is no longer owned by David Kingshot, having switched hands as far back as '06, but as far as the information tells, it is still in the UK.

This is a quote written by an individual who was associated with the wreck, and posted back in 2004:

"It must be noted that Da Quake was one of two Mustangs to crash-land on that beach that day of August 1944. At the time of the recovery in May 1981, some locals had passed along photographs taken during the summer and the fall of 1944, and they also stated that the location of the newly found wreck was that of the "silver" plane (44-13663) [they referred to the other wreck as the "green" plane - note the scheme differences between '633 and Da Quake that lead to those name-sakes]. Moreover, a recovery attempt was made in October of 1944, during which '663 had its tail broken off, as the plane was already half buried in the sand. Da Quake was put back on its landing gear, but while trying to avoid a mine field (which the two unaware flyers had crossed a couple of months before...), the plane sank in softer sand, and because of limited equipment, nothing could be done to recover it, and it soon disappeared too. The recovered wreck was tail less, and the landing gear was up, that's one of the few clues regarding its true identity, once you know most of the story ( and before someone asks, there was no manufacturer's plate in the cockpit).

So you may ask why the plane became Da Quake, if the real identity was known at the time of the recovery? Well, there was some research done to find relatives of the two pilots, and the only one that was found was the sister of Sam Gevorkian, who was flying Da Quake that day, so the wreck became Da Quake. Moreover, the fact that Da Quake had quite a fancy paint scheme, and that it was the most photographied of the two Mustangs might have played somehow.
Pilot of '663 was John Kester (KIA 14 Jan 45). Sam Gevorkian was killed in a flying accident in Germany in August 45.

Whatever the identity will be given to that plane, very few parts of the original will be used in a flying restoration, as the plane spent 37 years buried in sand, and 16 years of outdoor display. It was really in a sorry state when it left France in August 1997.

The real Da Quake could have been recovered in the spring of 1989, as a violent storm unearthed part of the wreckage, but before something could be organized, another storm burried it back. A very unlucky plane."

[skyhawka4m]

RKinkor,

We'll be continuing to cover more of the story of the P-51D, both in the past and the present, through a few more P-51D installments.]


I'm personlly praying for a TP-51D....:salute:

[skyhawka4m]

My Achin' Back pt1

this scheme is when it served with 334th FS, 4th FG

43602

I will upload tomorrow.

Pt2 to follow 38th FS, 55th FG

Bruce

Found this image tonight...

44036

[skyhawka4m]

and this will be my post war P-51D that I'll be doing....

44039

[DaveQ]

Thanks for the info John/Shift_E. That about sums up as far as I'd got with regard this bird, though I didn't know it had actually changed hands. And a 'restoration' would effectively be a replica.

I guess Edward Giller was about 4 months out... According to the 55th FG website (www.55th.org (http://www.55th.org)) several half-and-half Mustangs appear with D-Day invasion stripes (usually gone by autumn '44) and many are early D-5's. Also 'Millie' originally had stripes and no yellow/Prancing Horse rudder.

Is this age or obsessive compulsive disorder??:kilroy:

DaveQ

[bruce448]

Ridge Runner III

44073

Bruce

[Barnes]

Nice 1 Bruce :salute:

[jim]

Bruce, where do we get the downloads of these beauties?

[bruce448]

Bruce, where do we get the downloads of these beauties?

One more to do in this pack and then I'll start another.

Bruce

[bruce448]

Here's one for all my Friends

44106

I just need to package them all up.

Bruce

[Cag40Navy]

Bruce, you think you could do some captured German Mustangs (or anyone for that matter.)?

[roger-wilco-66]

Quite OT, but I found a nice report about learning to fly Mustangs at Junior Burchinals flying school at Paris / Texas in the 70ies (boy, have times changed...):

http://www.airbum.com/pireps/PirepMustangBurch.html


Cheers,
Mark

[bruce448]

My 5 complete unreleased textures can be found here once approved by the mods

http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=3&id=4339

the pack includes My achin' back (2 versions)
Ridge Runner III
Ol' Flak Joe
Ace of Clubs


Off to start pack 02

Bruce

[huub vink]

Thanks Bruce, as always very much appreciated!

Huub

[MDIvey]

Is "Big Dick" for pack2? only ever seen a single illustration of that aircraft... Looks great Bruce. Thanks for the ones in pack 1...excellent as always

Matt

[bruce448]

Is "Big Dick" for pack2? only ever seen a single illustration of that aircraft... Looks great Bruce. Thanks for the ones in pack 1...excellent as always

Matt

Matt, correct, Thank you and so will this one be in the second pack

For those of you with the Shht's take Ex-Lax

44170

Bruce

[MudMarine]

Good Lord, don't take ExLax if you have the shhht's! It would give a new meaning to "explosive"! LOL Thanks for this paint!!!!! One of my favorites!!:applause::jump:


Matt, correct, Thank you and so will this one be in the second pack

For those of you with the Shht's take Ex-Lax

44170

Bruce

[mohawk3]

A little OT, but I need some info:
Where can I find some photo with original NACA 127?
Thank you

[huub vink]

A little OT, but I need some info:
Where can I find some photo with original NACA 127?
Thank you

Perhaps a nice start:

http://www.mustangsmustangs.us/p-51/survivors/pages/44-84900.shtml

(http://www.mustangsmustangs.us/p-51/survivors/pages/44-84900.shtml)Cheers,
Huub

[mohawk3]

Perhaps a nice start:

http://www.mustangsmustangs.us/p-51/survivors/pages/44-84900.shtml

(http://www.mustangsmustangs.us/p-51/survivors/pages/44-84900.shtml)Cheers,
Huub

Thank you, Huub, but I was asking about the original real a/c, not the restored one.
Thank you again!

[Bomber_12th]

Mohawk, I don't believe I have seen any original photos of NACA 127 while it was with the NACA - at least post-NACA modifications, but the way it is currently finished, is how it looked then, with the exception of the aircraft being painted silver instead of bare metal.

Here is a photo of the aircraft after being assigned to the NACA, but before modifications:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/44-84900_7824_nac.jpg

Here is a photo of the aircraft a short time after its time with the NACA was over, and the aircraft was put on static display in ANG colors (you can see all of the NACA modifications still in-place - in which it would remain so when finally recovered and restored:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/64.jpg

Here is a photo of NACA 148, appearing very close to how NACA 127 would have, at Edwards AFB:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/E55-2078.jpg

Some close-ups of the wing testing-zones, showing some scale-model airfoils and aircraft designs attached - in this case a Lockheed P-80, and in the next photo, the Bell X-1:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/P-80_Model_Mounted_on_Wing_of_a_NACA_P-51B_-_GPN-2000-001625.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/GPN-2000-001252.jpg

And one of my favorite shots of NACA 127, upon its return to Edwards AFB following restoration:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/88.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

On another note, NACA 126 still survives to this day as well, in the form of Mike Coutches' highly-polished P-51D 44-84864. The aircraft still sports its original NACA modified tail as well: http://mustangsmustangs.net/p-51/p51survivors/pages/44-84864.php
(http://mustangsmustangs.net/p-51/p51survivors/pages/44-84864.php)
NACA was the first to develop the extended vertical fin on the P-51, and added the modification to their P-51B's as well. This was done to provide more yaw-stability during the high-speed dive tests. When Cavalier came around later, and developed their Mustang modification program, they adopted the same tail modification that NACA engineered.

[mohawk3]

Thank you sir, very helpful!

[VCN-1]

Is "little Friends" a stand alone project?

Or do you have to have pack 1?

VCN-1

[Bomber_12th]

VCN-1, each are completely stand-alone, and therefore 'fully-featured' and complete, no matter what part or parts you have installed.

[VCN-1]

VCN-1, each are completely stand-alone, and therefore 'fully-featured' and complete, no matter what part or parts you have installed.

Thank for the information.

VCN-1

[GT182]

Stunning work John. The best I've ever seen.... anywhere. :applause: :salute:

Now I've got to reinstall FSX and get this beauty.

[Thiago - Crosshairfilms]

Here some personal pictures of this work of art!


44244

44245

44246

44247

[Bomber_12th]

Very nice, Thiago, and thanks again for the excellent "Big Beautiful Doll" video, I loved it!

Here are a few more of my own formation shots:

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_3.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_8.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_13.jpg

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/Formation_Shot_12.jpg

[Barnes]

Hi Bruce and bomber

Just downloaded the latest repaints - thanks guys.

[sidler]

How much is "little Friends" in US dollars?


Dick

[jankees]

How much is "little Friends" in US dollars?
Dick

a lot, but worth every cent

[Thiago - Crosshairfilms]

My Pleasure Bomber, you guys brought this Cadillac to life, great work all around!

[JensOle]

Our hobby seems rather insignificant with the last days events here in Norway, but here is never the less a repaint representing Mustang IV "KH790" flown by the Norwegian ace W/Cdr Werner H Christie of the Hundson Wing, spring 1945. As was the privilege of a Wing Commander, the aircraft bears his initials (WHC) as the aircraft code. Christie was credited with 11 enemy aircraft shot down, 3 of where in the Mustang IV. He was also one of a very few Norwegians to command a RAF wing.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/JensOle/Scrshot0252.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/JensOle/Scrshot0272.jpg

[ZsoltB]

Where to find the paintkit?

[JensOle]

I do not know about a paint kit yet. I used some "paint remover" to bring the textures down to bare metal..

[Bomber_12th]

The paintkit can be had through simply sending me a PM with your e-mail address. ; )

In anycase, it is great to see this repaint JensOle, very well done!!

(As an interesting side-note, the Brits of course designated the P-51D as the Mustang Mk.IV. For the P-51K, they designated it the Mk.IVa)

[JensOle]

John,

Good point with the Mustang IV vs IVa, KH790 was the later.

[ZsoltB]

http://www.ianpsdarkcorner.co.uk/node/83

:applause:

[ZsoltB]

There is a solution to eliminate the differential braking?
I am fond of the smooth steering

[huub vink]

There is a solution to eliminate the differential braking?
I am fond of the smooth steering

When my memory is correct it should be an entry in the aircraft.cfg file, but as I'm at work I can check here.

Cheers,
Huub

[ZsoltB]

Where I can find paintkit?

[Thunderbolt]

Where I can find paintkit?


The paintkit can be had through simply sending me a PM with your e-mail address. ; )

nice paintwork JensOle :applause:

[huub vink]

Zolt,

To disable differential braking you should change the value behind differential_braking_scale into 0.0.

More information about the values in the aircraft configuration file can be found here:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc526949.aspx

(http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc526949.aspx)Success,
Huub

[ZsoltB]

Thanks mate!
:ernae:

[DaveQ]

http://i441.photobucket.com/albums/qq136/DaveQ-photos/SmallBoy1.jpg


This is my first effort with John's excellent paint kit. It depicts P-51D-20-NA, 44-63620 'Small Boy Here' from the 83rd FS, 78th FG based at Duxford and flown by Lt. John A. Kirk III. This was reputed to be one of the fastest stock Mustangs operated in Europe and Kirk destroyed an Me-262 with it on March 21st 1945, one of 6 downed by the 78th FG that day. 'Small Boy Here' was the RAF radio call for friendly fighters in the area. On VE Day 7th May 1945 a replacement pilot misjudged a landing at Duxford and it bellied in. It was the last USAAF aircraft to crash during the war in Europe but was subsequently repaired and finally written off in another belly landing in Germany in January 1946. This is one of my favourite Mustangs for some irrational reason :kilroy:.

Not yet finished and not the right .mdl (it had no tail warning radar fitted). John, can I use an .mdl from an earlier restored pack?

DaveQ

[huub vink]

Looks nice Dave!

Huub

[Bomber_12th]

Not yet finished and not the right .mdl (it had no tail warning radar fitted). John, can I use an .mdl from an earlier restored pack?

Hi Dave,

There are several problems with using a model file from one of the P-51D 'restored' products - the biggest being that there are many parts that are mapped differently (due to the amount of newly modeled parts/extra work/weathering that took place), so a repaint of one of the models from the Little Friends product, will not work completey on a model from one of the 'restored' products. It doesn't seem like it is a problem amongst most people amyway, if a detail like the tail warning radar, or the mirror configuration, isn't accurate, for a repainted scheme.

The tail warning radar was first introduced into late P-51D-20-NA production, and by the end of the war in Europe, all P-51D's that were operational, 'should' have had the unit installed. You will notice that when you sit in the cockpit of Mustangs within the Little Friends product, they are configured differently between those with the tail warning radar fitted, and those which do not have it fitted, just as they originally were. My repaint of "My Mac/Sweet Genevieve", should have had the tail warning radar fitted, but the model it bests fits to ("Millie G" with a P-38 mirror) doesn't have the tail warning radar fitted.

Personally I think the repaint is excellent, and is just fine on the model you have it applied to! I love your extra touch with the exhaust and fuel staining. ; )

Speaking of 78th FG Mustangs, there will be a repaint of this one available very soon as well, I just need to finish the nose art and it will be done...

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/wz-s1.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

I really am liking all these repaints. I'm hoping that I can get motivated once again soon to complete more of mine. Life has really dealt me a blow I didn't see coming and it has me out of wack to the point I can't concentrate right now.

I have a good list of subjects and once things calm down a little bit.....I'll get back on them. In the meantime, I will package up my two remaining repaints hopefully tonight or tommorow mornnig at the latest...hopefully...and get them posted.

[MDIvey]

I like the one above John. Does that have black instead of Green on the forward fuselage top to match the black rudder? or is that just an illusion?... bit different if is so.

Matt

[skyhawka4m]

Would anyone be wanting more than the three VLR P-51D's I've already done? I have a few mroe I could do if there's an interest.

[Bomber_12th]

Matt, I am assuming that it is just stock, olive drab, going off of other examples in the group. From what I can tell, the red boarder line along the glare shield, matches very closely to how the red boarder line was painted on BBD, though the red line actually extends up and over the windscreen framing.

Note the red paint on the top of the tail fin and on the wingtips - I am assuming that the tips of the horizontal tail surfaces were painted red as well. The wheels and the interior of the outer-landing gear doors are also painted red, as is the antenna mast.

[MDIvey]

Should be a good one... please let us know when its available to download

Matt

[ZsoltB]

http://img594.imageshack.us/img594/7915/2011728203133656.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/594/2011728203133656.jpg/)

[Bomber_12th]

Well here's a little work in progress. Nearly there, but still a bit more work - it will likely be finished/released on Monday. I hope you like it thus far!

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/SweetandLovely_WIP.jpg

[Bomber_12th]

Zsolt, that looks amazing!!!

An excellent job, especially in navigating the paintkit so well and so quickly besides!
Really, really, looking forward to it!

[MDIvey]

Roll on Monday http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon26.gif

Matt

[ZsoltB]

Zsolt, that looks amazing!!!

An excellent job, especially in navigating the paintkit so well and so quickly besides!
Really, really, looking forward to it!

Thank you John!
What do you suggest for me?
Which model type is suitable for painting?

:ernae:

[skyhawka4m]

Well here's a little work in progress. Nearly there, but still a bit more work - it will likely be finished/released on Monday. I hope you like it thus far!

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y282/Bomber_12th/SweetandLovely_WIP.jpg


wow john....this is awesome!

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you John!
What do you suggest for me?
Which model type is suitable for painting?

:ernae:

Zsolt,

There of course isn't going to be a 'correct' model for that paint scheme to be applied to, unless a new product is made specifically for Mustangs in the Domican AF. However, the most suitable within Warbirdsim's "Little Friends", would be the model for 'Big Beautifull Doll', as it does not have any exterior mirrors. You will just have to remember to 'turn on' the exhaust shrouds within the sim, for a little extra accuracy.

The FAD/Domican AF Mustangs, were actually not all that different, externally or internally, from when they were originally manufactured in WWII. In most cases, they even continued to use the K-14 gun sight up until the early 1980's, when the Mustangs were finally retired.

[Bomber_12th]

wow john....this is awesome!

Thank you, John! It is definitely a colorful scheme.

Also, I forgot to mention, but I certainly would love to see more Iwo-schemes!

[eagledocf15]

I wouild love to see a Detroit Miss added. Pictures by John Dibbs I believe

[bruce448]

I wouild love to see a Detroit Miss added. Pictures by John Dibbs I believe


It can be found here http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=3&id=4309

Bruce

[eagledocf15]

More of Urban Drew's Detroit Miss

[eagledocf15]

It can be found here http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=3&id=4309

Bruce

thank you

[MudMarine]

Yes, I third the more Iwo schemes!! I haven't seen the Ex-Law Sh#t n Get paint yet; I thought someone was doing one? My favorite stang paint!



Thank you, John! It is definitely a colorful scheme.

Also, I forgot to mention, but I certainly would love to see more Iwo-schemes!

[bruce448]

Yes, I third the more Iwo schemes!! I haven't seen the Ex-Law Sh#t n Get paint yet; I thought someone was doing one? My favorite stang paint!

EX-LAX Shht'n'Git, and Big Dick have been uploaded and once approved by the mods can be found here http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=3&id=4397.

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

thank you Bruce...very nice work.

[skyhawka4m]

maybe some paint inspiration?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w1vnzdlO_C8

[DaveQ]

'Small Boy Here' now uploaded here and at Flightsim.com.

DaveQ

[Bomber_12th]

Thank you Bruce, and thank you Dave! I look forward to seeing them 'firsthand'. ; )

[jankees]

Also, I forgot to mention, but I certainly would love to see more Iwo-schemes! I'm still on holiday, and will be moving to Belgium when I get back, but once I'm settled in a bit...

[MDIvey]

Thankyou Bruce and Dave for the new paints.

Matt

[huub vink]

Thanks guys for these great repaints!

Huub

[EMatheson]

Is there any chance of seeing these models in FS2004? With the model conversion method developed by Proptrash, the poly-count is not an issue any longer and textures are not-too-different. It would be more work, but I'd buy happily. I'm still in Africa now, so I do apologize if I'm a little outofplace asking this question here and now...

[jankees]

I couldn't resist to paint a bit...final paint in the Netherlands, the movers come tomorrow, so uploading may take a while though...

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12155.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12160.jpg

http://i722.photobucket.com/albums/ww230/jcblom60/2010/FX12161.jpg

[jim]

Jankees, may you find tons of happiness in your new home.
Iwo Jima Mustangs; my father was on Iwo from Mar 45 to the end of the war. 90th Seabees

[DaveQ]

I too hope all goes well with your move Jankees, and thanks for the black-tail!

Here are two WIP's, Col Joe Thury's 'Pauline' and 'Barbara', a 35th FG Mustang out of Clark Field, Luzon in August 1945.


http://i441.photobucket.com/albums/qq136/DaveQ-photos/P-51DPauline2.jpg


http://i441.photobucket.com/albums/qq136/DaveQ-photos/P-51DBarbara1.jpg


Just wish I could 'weather' like you Jankees!

DaveQ