PB4Y-2 Privateer WIP

[tankerguy72]

Ok well my original idea was to build a PB4Y-2 Privateer for FSX but this being my first time modelling and using gmax I will be making this for FS9 with possible update to FSX at a later date. This project is mainly to pay tribute to the airtanker crews all over past and present who put their lives on the line to save lives and property.

I have grown up around airtankers my whole life and recently began studying the 4Y in which Ive met alot of great people and even flown in (and got some stick time) the 4Y Tanker 121. Learning about this aircraft made me start searching for a flight sim (http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/#) model which there was only one. A military model from Wings of Power which was the military model complete with guns and everything which is not what I was looking for. So I decided to give modeling a go. Let me say that I am not a patient person sooo this was not easy. I have to admit I would have been lost in Gmax without the help of Milton Shupe! He has helped me along this whole project and I owe a big thank you to him!

This project has come along way since the begining and its getting alot closer to finishing. Id like to share some photos of the progress up to where we are today with this. I have started to lay down some textures so I hope you guys enjoy and I look forward to sharing this when the project is complete. Ill stop babbling now :icon_lol:

6655366554665556655666557

[tankerguy72]

and a few more :)

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-50-22-98.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-50-46-01.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-50-54-15.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-51-35-87.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-52-09-22.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-05-3121-53-01-59.jpg

[Milton Shupe]

Great progress TG! :applause:

[pfflyers]

Looks pretty sweet, can't wait to see the finished product.

Didn't known the tankers had a glass nose (should'a looked at your avatar pic closer) , that'd be a fun ride.

[Hurricane91]

TG, that is magnificent!

[HorusJ]

Looking good!
Some years ago when I lived in the Denver area I would watch these(and Neptune,Herc,DC-4)tankers at (then)Jeffco.
Looking forward to flying this big colorful bird!:applause:

Joel

[patful]

Oh my! That's beautiful! And just your first project? Amazing. I've been planning on re-installing Gmax and giving it another try. This gives me more incentive. Can't wait to try this one when it's done. Thanks!

Pat

[Milton Shupe]

Oh my! That's beautiful! And just your first project? Amazing. I've been planning on re-installing Gmax and giving it another try. This gives me more incentive. Can't wait to try this one when it's done. Thanks!

Pat

You should patful. Unfortunately, I have deleted all the video tutes I did for Jeremy but if I can help in any way, let me know. :-)

[tankerguy72]

Thanks everyone its been a fun learning process! I cant wait to get it done and start bombing the fires!

[Blackbird686]

Great progress on the model! I was beginning to wonder if I'd ever see one of these for FS9....:medals:

BB686:USA-flag:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks BB686 if anyone has any pictures or anything they'd like to share I would appreciate it. It would help on the textures.

[patful]

You should patful. Unfortunately, I have deleted all the video tutes I did for Jeremy but if I can help in any way, let me know. :-)

I found your C162 tutorial, thought that would be a good start. Just have to download all the pages, and I'm off. Really slowly. I dabbled with AD2K years ago, but Gmax just terrified me.

[Moses03]

Fantastic!:applause:

[p3aewguy]

WOW! I like it!!!! I want it!!!!LOL!!!!!

Dave:jump:

[Milton Shupe]

I found your C162 tutorial, thought that would be a good start. Just have to download all the pages, and I'm off. Really slowly. I dabbled with AD2K years ago, but Gmax just terrified me.

Check your PM's.

[Milton Shupe]

WOW! I like it!!!! I want it!!!!LOL!!!!!

Dave:jump:


LOL I like it too. The flight model is starting to shape up nicely as well. She takes off with her GW at 58,800 pounds full of retardant and 1600 gallons of fuel and flies really well, right to the performance numbers. Now to tweak all that lift to get a nice approach with only 28,000 pounds empty weight is a little bit of a challenge. :-) She has a really nice heavy feel loaded, in the air and on the ground, but very controllable. She doesn't mind a little rough landing either; swallows it right up. It's a fun project to do. :wiggle: Thanks to TG for allowing me to contribute.

[hawkeye52]

Very nice, TG. Actually, for a first-timer it is excellent.

I have pix I took inside one that was being used to haul meat around So. America; not sure if it had a glass nose or faired over. That was back in the early sixties.

- h52

[tankerguy72]

Very nice, TG. Actually, for a first-timer it is excellent.

I have pix I took inside one that was being used to haul meat around So. America; not sure if it had a glass nose or faired over. That was back in the early sixties.

- h52

Wow never heard about one being used like that. Id love to see the pics!

Worked on texturing some inside parts today

66641

and some flap textures

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0200-09-48-97.jpg

[Duckie]

Great looking work TG. Go man,go!

[nigel richards]

Amazing work going on in your hanger TG72!:applause:

She looks a real beauty in the making - very much looking forward to this one and so glad you're doing it for fs9.

Congratulations!

[tankerguy72]

Thanks for all the compliments :salute:

heres another from a flight this morning

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0209-33-47-74.jpg

[t.creed]

:applause: really nice work there..!!! looking forward to flying, thanks :salute:


rgds
t creed

[tankerguy72]

Next up on the texture list. This will be Tanker 123, the reason I did this project. The crew and plane were lost 10yrs ago this July.:USA-flag:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0311-59-01-02.jpg

[hawkeye52]

I have pix I took inside one that was being used to haul meat around So. America; not sure if it had a glass nose or faired over. That was back in the early sixties.

- h52


Wow never heard about one being used like that. Id love to see the pics!

I don't know if I'll be able to "produce" -- they are 35 mm slides which I have not figured how to upload/post. Ideas?

- h52

[wbuchart]

Looking forward to this.....

[PeteHam]

Great effort TG :applause: :applause:

I can't believe this is a 'first time' model, you've done well :salute:

Can't wait for the release as mines going to be destined to fly cargo in the wilds of Alaska and northern Canada :jump:

Pete.

[Milton Shupe]

Great effort TG :applause: :applause:

I can't believe this is a 'first time' model, you've done well :salute:

Can't wait for the release as mines going to be destined to fly cargo in the wilds of Alaska and northern Canada :jump:

Pete.

Well, Pete, that should be a money-maker with up to 32,000 lbs of cargo each trip. :-)
Now, about that fuel cost ... :kilroy:

[PeteHam]

Well, Pete, that should be a money-maker with up to 32,000 lbs of cargo each trip. :-)
Now, about that fuel cost ... :kilroy:


Fuel cost is not a problem with a Virtual Gold Credit Card :icon_lol:


Pete.

[tankerguy72]

I have pix I took inside one that was being used to haul meat around So. America; not sure if it had a glass nose or faired over. That was back in the early sixties.

- h52


Wow never heard about one being used like that. Id love to see the pics!

I don't know if I'll be able to "produce" -- they are 35 mm slides which I have not figured how to upload/post. Ideas?

- h52

Well if you do figure out how to load it up Id love to see.

Thanks all for the kind words! This is a very gentle beast. Milton has done wonders on the flight model! The 4Y is a great handling aircraft for a large bomber.

Here are some pics from my actual flight in the 4Y

66882
6688366884668856688666886668876688866889

[nigel richards]

Knowing Pete, he's already got it sorted...:icon_lol:

I can also imagine his probable remark when he has this 'little' beauty fired-up on all four, for the first time, too:

Bugger! :wavey:

[fliger747]

Nice indeed, and many thanks to Milton for his continuing encouragement to creative members of the community.

Cheers: Tom

[PeteHam]

Knowing Pete, he's already got it sorted...:icon_lol:

I also know his probable remark when he has this 'little' beauty fired-up on all four, for the first time, too:

Bugger! :wavey:




:jump: :jump: :jump: .... I'll wear my 'pilot bib' so I don't drool down the front of my flight suit .

Pete.

[nigel richards]

:jump: :jump: :jump: .... I'll wear my 'pilot bib' so I don't drool down the front of my flight suit .

Pete.

Hey Pete :wavey:
I could use one of those too!

Freeware gems like this are costing me an absolute fortune in new keyboards!

May just get me a box o' disposable daipers as well - as usual, I'll end up trying to barrel role the beast!

PS; TG has gone into torture mode - photos like those shouldn't be allowed up here.

[tankerguy72]

Put in a little time on the 4Y tonight. Mapped the nose gear rim and tire. Also worked on the VC a little bit mapping and adding a few things. This looks like it will be alot of fun when finished! :jump:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0621-29-50-64.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0621-30-23-91.jpg

[t.creed]

AWESOME..!! :applause:

rgds
t creed

[Blackbird686]

I like the way it sits on the ramp... the plane looks heavy. Superb in all aspects, eagerly awaiting it's release. Very nice work, TG72! :medals:

BB686:USA-flag:

[Milton Shupe]

At 58K pounds, it is heavy :-)

But she will get off the ground in 4086 feet of runway and climb at 300-500fpm to 130kias even after reducing map to 36" and rpms to 2600 and retracting flaps. She flies pretty sweet!

'tis a fun aircraft. :-)

[tankerguy72]

Yep She flies great! Thanks to Milton! Still working on my landings I've had to replace the tail skid a few times:icon_lol: Don't think I'd pass my checkride yet.

[tankerguy72]

I thought Id try messing around with some weathering techniques! Never done it before but try to fade out the wings to make this monster look used and abused. This project is a HUGE learning process for me :icon_eek:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-0723-05-44-46.jpg

[Milton Shupe]

I like it TG :applause:

I might say you are a very fast study, hear it once and you are off to do magic. You have made amazing progress in a very short time. :isadizzy:

[Duckie]

Man, that's one heck of a project to learn on! Great job TG. Love the character that the weathering gives it too.

:applause: :applause:

[patful]

I like it TG :applause:

I might say you are a very fast study, hear it once and you are off to do magic. You have made amazing progress in a very short time. :isadizzy:

It is lovely. What constitutes a short time? After doing my "Getting Started" animated mace tutorial twice, once from memory, I think I'm about two years away from building my Bearcat. :rolleyes:

[tankerguy72]

It's a lot of fun to do an aircraft that you've had a connection with. Thanks for all the compliments! I believe i downloaded gmax and started this project in February of this year.

[t.creed]

wow..since February of this year..remarkable..!!! :applause::applause:


rgds
t creed

[Cag40Navy]

hope you visit us in X! Looking good!

[Milton Shupe]

hope you visit us in X! Looking good!

As a port over, she is working fine in FSX shown here at Friday Harbor.

[tankerguy72]

had a pretty fun day today! (this is FSX also)

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1016-33-22-50.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1016-35-52-68.jpg

[p3aewguy]

had a pretty fun day today!

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1016-33-22-50.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1016-35-52-68.jpg

Come on, Fess up, you scanned those photos from a magazine! LOL!!

Truly, a GREAT job, TG! Hopefully this will be available soon! Well Done!!:icon29::jump:

Dave

[tankerguy72]

Thanks Dave, still have lots of work and lots of models to do. This should be a complete package for Hawkins and Powers 4Ys when done.

[wbuchart]

Tankerguy72, this looks really good. I mean REALLY good. I'm looking forward to the release of this.
And to think, you said this is only your first time modelling....

[Cirrus N210MS]

looking forward to fly this amazing airplane

:salute:

[tankerguy72]

The reason for this project Tanker 123

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1220-09-59-95.jpg

[PeteHam]

Great work TG :applause: :applause:

I see your screenshots and I stand in awe. :jawdrop:

Still can't believe this is your first project.

Looking forward to being able to fly this beastie myself. :jump: :jump:

Pete.

[Milton Shupe]

Suh-weet! :applause:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks guys! Im lucky enough to have 124 parked within driving distance and have flown in 121 so I have PLENTY of pictures to do a photoreal texture. I love the way they are coming out! Hopefully you all will enjoy them as much as I do :salute:

[Firekitten]

I look forward to using this in fsx... its incredible work, and you should be proud... its also a fitting tribute to 123 and her crew... A part will continue one and be remembered, if only by those that know.

[Maarten -]

TG, I'm absolutely in awe! Just cannot believe that this is your "first". Fabulous! Can't wait to fly this stunning ole lady.

Cheers,
Maarten

[Jagdflieger]

Back in the the mid 70s, I used to watch the Hawkins & Powers Privateers fly out of Greybull and Grand Junction. It was a treat to watch them fly overhead at low altitude. Never saw one drop slurry though. Saw the Dollar Nineteens and A-26 Invaders drop retardent on several occasions.

I'm looking forward to cranking up those big radials on the new Privateer.

[Blackbird686]

The reason for this project Tanker 123

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1220-09-59-95.jpg

Looking absolutely stunning TG72 :medals: I really like the heavy look of the airplane. Excellent paint work too

BB686:USA-flag:

[johnh_049]

:salute:I'm looking forward to seeing this one finished up. :jump:
It's looking great so far.

[tankerguy72]

Yep it is pretty good for my first model but I owe it all to Milton for putting up with me this whole time haha.

Messing around with fixing bugs in the model and texturing. (Smokey has a 4Y also haha)

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1321-45-19-56.jpg

[Maarten -]

Gosh! At a first glance I thought it was a photo of the real one! Awesome! :applause::applause::applause::applause:

Cheers,
Maarten

[nigel richards]

Following this inspired project, I keep coming accross the word fun.
Well, I think thats probably the big secret to all admirable enterprises such as this.

And one thing is for sure Gentlemen: I'm absolutely itching to have fun working on a suitable voice for this awesome babe! :wavey:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks! Nigel, hopefully I can't get some sound material off to you in the next couple days. Can't wait to hear your work!

[nigel richards]

:icon29:Pleasure Big TG!

In any case, this all sounds like too much fun to be missed!:wiggle:

[SSI01]

I have a kind of esoteric question re: engines on these aircraft - in at least one aircraft (123) I'm seeing what I'll call "pimples" on the outside of the cowl around the engine. I've only previously seen those kind of protrusions on a B-25's engine cowl. Are those engines on the Privateer R-2600s? I realize many of these rebuilt heavy WWII aircraft had engine changes due to their anticipated new roles - but the mounts were originally intended for something like an R-1830, I think. What kind of adaptation(s) did they have to do to the firewall and engine mounts to hang this new iron on the front end?

[tankerguy72]

I have a kind of esoteric question re: engines on these aircraft - in at least one aircraft (123) I'm seeing what I'll call "pimples" on the outside of the cowl around the engine. I've only previously seen those kind of protrusions on a B-25's engine cowl. Are those engines on the Privateer R-2600s? I realize many of these rebuilt heavy WWII aircraft had engine changes due to their anticipated new roles - but the mounts were originally intended for something like an R-1830, I think. What kind of adaptation(s) did they have to do to the firewall and engine mounts to hang this new iron on the front end?

Yes these are B-25 engines, the upgrade was made a few years into their fire bombing careers. I believe the "pimples" are called short stacks. Not sure about the mounts on.them though.

[nigel richards]

4 x Wright R-2600! That's a major symphony orchestra tuning up there!

Please forgive the saliva drops Gentlemen.:wiggle:

[stuartcox]

Please forgive the saliva drops Gentlemen.:wiggle:

Nigel,

I shall join you in anticipation...:applause:
Can't wait!

:icon29: Cheers, Stuart

[Maarten -]

OMG! That's the sound of two Mitchells in perfect formation. Nigel, I'm afraid you'll have to come over to the Netherlands and record the awesome sound of the B-25N of the Duke of Brabant Air Force.

Cheers,
Maarten

[nigel richards]

OMG! That's the sound of two Mitchells in perfect formation. Nigel, I'm afraid you'll have to come over to the Netherlands and record the awesome sound of the B-25N of the Duke of Brabant Air Force.

Cheers,
Maarten

Double treasure for pleasure - Fine hospitality of a wonderful nation of great people combined with Aviation - I'm packing bags already!:icon29::icon29:

[tankerguy72]

Haha yeah this baby doesn't purr she ROARS! I always thought about that on my flights haha "this is like sitting in between two Mitchell's" let me say you better have some hearing protection!

[Milton Shupe]

Four of any kind of radials certainly perks my ears up. :wiggle:

I have been wanting to do a 4-engine heavy like this for some time. I appreciate TG's efforts on this one and allowing me to be a small part of it.

He has a deadline on this one so he must get the basic aircraft out, and the rest (of the goodies) comes later, I suspect.

Nigel, sounds would be helpful sooner rather than later. IMO, it has priority over the Avia 57, Dash 7, and Harpoon work.

[tankerguy72]

Four of any kind of radials certainly perks my ears up. :wiggle:

I have been wanting to do a 4-engine heavy like this for some time. I appreciate TG's efforts on this one and allowing me to be a small part of it.

He has a deadline on this one so he must get the basic aircraft out, and the rest (of the goodies) comes later, I suspect.

Nigel, sounds would be helpful sooner rather than later. IMO, it has priority over the Avia 57, Dash 7, and Harpoon work.

Yeah the Tanker 123 version of this project has a optimistic release date of July 18. The 10 year Anniversary of the crash. That leaves pretty much 1 month:icon_eek: I have no idea about gauges so if anyone wants to volunteer or knows someone that can I'd appreciate it!!

[nigel richards]

Four of any kind of radials certainly perks my ears up. :wiggle:

I have been wanting to do a 4-engine heavy like this for some time. I appreciate TG's efforts on this one and allowing me to be a small part of it.

He has a deadline on this one so he must get the basic aircraft out, and the rest (of the goodies) comes later, I suspect.

Nigel, sounds would be helpful sooner rather than later. IMO, it has priority over the Avia 57, Dash 7, and Harpoon work.

Thanks for keeping me focused Milton. I'll do everything within my power! :wiggle:

[SSI01]

It is amazing what an innocuous question about short stacks can start . . . :icon_eek:

[Milton Shupe]

It is amazing what an innocuous question about short stacks can start . . . :icon_eek:

At IHOP, a short stack is .... how many pancakes?

[tankerguy72]

It is amazing what an innocuous question about short stacks can start . . . :icon_eek:

you brought it to life haha

this is the real one in flight

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/DSC_0264-2.jpg

[SSI01]

Right now in my sim, I use the R-2600 sound from MAAM-SIM's B-25 for anything that flies with that engine. That's an impressive growl just from two. I wonder what four will sound like - especially after Nigel waves his magic wand?

[Maarten -]

Right now in my sim, I use the R-2600 sound from MAAM-SIM's B-25 for anything that flies with that engine. That's an impressive growl just from two. I wonder what four will sound like - especially after Nigel waves his magic wand?

MAAM-SIM's B-25 sound is just how the Dutch Mitchell sounds. Wild! :)
BTW, the late Catalina "Killer Cat" which crashed at Southamton also had R-2600s. In the early 1990s I saw and heard this Cat taking off from Deurne (Antwerp) flying low over the houses. The effect of the R-2600s was such that many car-alarms started to whine because of the vibrations. :icon_lol: Imagine what effect would be sorted if an R-2600 powered Privateer would have taken off instead. :jump:

Cheers,
Maarten

[SSI01]

In 1995 I was present in HI during the 50th anniversary celebrations for the end of WWII in the Pacific. One morning during all the hoopla I stepped out of my front door in Mililani, headed off to work at Pearl, and glanced over to my left, toward the Kam Highway that ran through town. I was priviliged to see a tight vic of three B-25s flying very low over the trees, rising and falling with the treetops, enroute from Wheeler Field toward Pearl Harbor. They didn't seem to be too loud, although the noise was quite discernable - it was a muted low-frequency growling noise, along with a rapid "chug-chug-chug-chug" after they had passed.

Our property manager while we were in HI was a WWII-era multi-engine AAF pilot who remained in after WWII and went on to fly in the ATC and then MATS and MAC. His time included stints in twin-engined bombers as well, a tour in B-26s in Korea being included. He still preferred the big transports and loved the DC-4/C-54. I remember he said anything I had heard about the noise level in the B-25 was absolutely accurate, he said it was the noisiest aircraft he ever flew.

[tankerguy72]

Took some time yesterday to do a little tribute flight for Hawkins and Powers C-130A Tanker 130 (N130HP) June 17, 2012 marked the 10yr anniversary for the crash of the Herc and crew. This was a little something for them.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1714-07-14-75.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1714-03-57-11.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1218-43-19-67.jpg

[andersel]

Beautimus! A couple or three years ago, while on a visit to my Dad in Red Lodge, we drove over to Greybull WY to look at the airport. On the ramp just outside the museum, there's a Privateer parked that has an almost totally aluminum enclosed nose (as opposed to a greenhouse). How difficult would it be to make that particular modification to your model? I had to find an image on google because when I was there I was using a new camera and, literally, ALL of the shots I took did not come out.

67737

[Duckie]

TG, I gotta say, not only is your first model something to be desired by the rest of us, you take some dang good screen shots, great angles and composition. Really enjoy them. :applause: :applause: :applause:

[tankerguy72]

Beautimus! A couple or three years ago, while on a visit to my Dad in Red Lodge, we drove over to Greybull WY to look at the airport. On the ramp just outside the museum, there's a Privateer parked that has an almost totally aluminum enclosed nose (as opposed to a greenhouse). How difficult would it be to make that particular modification to your model? I had to find an image on google because when I was there I was using a new camera and, literally, ALL of the shots I took did not come out.

67737














Yes sir that is on my to do list!! I love 126 and 127 for that reason! They just look mean. Story is the nose on those two are canopies off of a B-47. I will do those after we get all the issues squared away. My goal is to do each one of Hawkins and Powers PB4Y-2. They may look the same but each one is different. But 123 is first.

Thank you Duckie I try :salute:

[Jagdflieger]

Here is a shot of the H&P 123 somewhere in the Rockies. Too many trees to be Greybull or Grand Junction fire bases. Perhaps it's at the Missoula fire base.

[Cag40Navy]

Awesome job on the H&P PB's! Look forward to seeing them all in their glory. :salute:

[p3aewguy]

Took some time yesterday to do a little tribute flight for Hawkins and Powers C-130A Tanker 130 (N130HP) June 17, 2012 marked the 10yr anniversary for the crash of the Herc and crew. This was a little something for them.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1714-07-14-75.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1714-03-57-11.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-1218-43-19-67.jpg

TG, Which C-130 is that?

Dave

[tankerguy72]

That is the Captain Sim C-130.

Here is video of PB4Y-2 Hawkins and Powers Tanker 123 shot at Hemet Ryan Air Attack Base by a friend of mine Steve Whitby


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1hEq-Pheafo&feature=plcp

[tankerguy72]

Here is a shot of the H&P 123 somewhere in the Rockies. Too many trees to be Greybull or Grand Junction fire bases. Perhaps it's at the Missoula fire base.

Great photo! Thats actually Tanker 124 and she now rests in Chino, CA at Yanks Air Museum. I have made several visits there to get interior and exterior shots.

[andersel]

Thaks, TG! I remember that visit with great fondness. We even got access through the gates and on to the back lot that day. A swell trip all the way around!

LA

[PeteHam]

WOW ... :jawdrop: :jawdrop:

Lookin' great :applause:

Are we there yet ... are we :jump: :jump:

Pete.

[Milton Shupe]

Looks great TG. BTW, the panel and gauges are temporary design works, the gauges are borrowed from Jens' beautiful DC-4 for testing until we can get permissions or find a gauge provider. Also looking for someone to do proper graphics for the 2D panel and VC panels.

[tankerguy72]

Well in between modelling, mapping, and texturing you have to find time to just go out and fly. It was going good until (in true radial fashion) I lost an engine, but then I remembered I have 3 more :wiggle:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-2120-32-27-62.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-2120-16-34-42.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-2120-16-09-78.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-2119-34-18-51.jpg

[fliger747]

Love the look of the feathered prop in flight.

Cheers. T

[tankerguy72]

These 4Ys are a great addition to my FSX airtanker collection.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-06-2318-22-02-88.jpg

[t.creed]

very nice...!! nice photo also..!!

rgds
t creed

[Jagdflieger]

Here is a shot from Google Earth showing the relative sizes of the PB4Y-2, KC 97, C 119 and a P2V Neptune. Having walked around all of these planes and seen them drop slurry at one time or another, I remembered the PB4Y-2 as being larger than it apparently is.

The shot is of the Hawkins & Powers tarmack at Greybul, Wyoming.

[mazdarodi]

While I was driving a semi truck through Greybull WY back in 2006, I came upon the airfield, and that was an experience to remember. The mueseum was closed, but I was allowed to run around and photograph some stuff. Pretty neat! Thanks for doing a tanker privateer, as I have been looking forward to a flight simulator model of this for some time. Your work looks beautiful tankerguy, can't wait to fly it. I have a couple pics of the C-119 boxcars that were there too, one of them being used in the movie 'Always' as tanker 140, if you want them. Heres the pics;
68025680266802868027

[tankerguy72]

While I was driving a semi truck through Greybull WY back in 2006, I came upon the airfield, and that was an experience to remember. The mueseum was closed, but I was allowed to run around and photograph some stuff. Pretty neat! Thanks for doing a tanker privateer, as I have been looking forward to a flight simulator model of this for some time. Your work looks beautiful tankerguy, can't wait to fly it. I have a couple pics of the C-119 boxcars that were there too, one of them being used in the movie 'Always' as tanker 140, if you want them. Heres the pics;
68025680266802868027

Thanks for the compliments! Yeah that is odd to me also Ive been around the 4Y also and it seems large but then looking at top down pics with other aircraft it seems small.

Thanks for those pics! I appreciate all pictures. Greybull, Wy is on my vacation list for later this year. I have a few planes to check off my checklist. I have flown in/flown Tanker 121, been in and photographed 124, and now I need to go down there and get Tankers 126 and 127.

[mazdarodi]

Here ya go Tankerguy, my other pics from that Greybull visit. Weird how I have 250,000 trucking miles under me and the few moments like coming upon Greybull are the only
things that really stuck out in my memory. Was a very cool experience. Now they've moved most of the aircraft from what I see on Google Earth. Just found out they flew Tanker
140 C-119 that was in the movie "Always" to Hagerstown NJ, then I also found out that Hagerstown NJ is where Fairchild Aircraft was located. Aviation always has cool history
lessons. My favorite shot is the tail shot of Tanker 140. The way the sun hits it is almost like the old kodachrome images... vivid and colorful. Sadly, it was only a 1.3 mp camera.
Here are the pics;



683436834568346
683446834768348
6834968350

[hawkeye52]

....Just found out they flew Tanker
140 C-119 that was in the movie "Always" to Hagerstown NJ, then I also found out that Hagerstown NJ is where Fairchild Aircraft was located.

Hey "Maz", Fairchild built the C-119 (and the C-82) in Hagerstown, Maryland. Fairchild also had operations in New York and later merged with Republic in Farmingdale.

CHASE Aircraft was located in New Jersey. Their C-123 is sometimes attributed to Fairchild; that may be the source of confusion.

- H52

[pfflyers]

This might be the cause of "confusion" over the C-123:

"The C-123 Provider is an American military transport aircraft designed by Chase Aircraft and subsequently built by Fairchild Aircraft for the United States Air Force."

Quoted from Wikipedia, but I've seen the same statement elsewhere. A history I read said the Provider was based on the design of a transport glider. The USAF liked the design but thought Chase was over their head when it came to producing it.

Every reference to the C-123 that I've seen calls it the "Fairchild C-123".

[hawkeye52]

The USAF liked the design but thought Chase was over their head when it came to producing it. Every reference to the C-123 that I've seen calls it the "Fairchild C-123".

I had forgotten that, but you nailed it! :salute:

- H52

[tankerguy72]

Unfortunatley I have hit some snags in real life and had this project on hold for the last couple weeks. That means I probably wont hit the release I had planned of July 18. I really wanted to release it on the anniversary but other things have come up and I want to release a great product for you all. I hope you guys understand and thanks for the interest in my project!

[Milton Shupe]

Real world always comes first TG. I commend you for keeping priorities right and insisting on a great final product. :applause:

[Duckie]

Real world always comes first TG. I commend you for keeping priorities right and insisting on a great final product. :applause:

What he said ^! I'm still holdin' my place in line!

[Sundog]

No need for an apology. Target dates always come and go, especially regarding add-ons for FS. It's ready when it's ready. Take care of yourself and your family and friends first.:salute:

[Blackbird686]

Take care of what's important first... everything else will follow along in good order.:salute:

BB686:USA-flag:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks for the support. I'm sure you all will enjoy this once I am able to finish it.

[nigel richards]

My sincere apologies Tankerguy 72, for any inconvenience the soundset delay may have caused you.
I'm pleased to inform you the sounds are now well underway and therefore not far from becoming operational.

Warm Regards,
Nigel

[tankerguy72]

Good to hear from ya Nigel! no apologies necessary. My project has come to a complete halt right now. Alot of things going on in the real world right now and cant devote the time I think this project deserves. No time line yet, but we will see. Take your time on the sounds and produce a great product like you always do! Thanks for joining the team in this and others!

[nigel richards]

Not too much of a halt, I hope - this is one heck of an aircraft you've been putting together buddy!

You are of course, perfectly wise in your decision to not rush things, but what I have been flying for the past week or so, is shear joy!

Congratulations!

[nigel richards]

tankerguy72: Please accept delivery of 4 x Wright R-2600 engines.
(check your e-mail inbox)

Copies sent to yourself and Milton for approval.
Its been a very absorbing challenge, hope you like the results.

This aircraft is going to make many 'heavies' fans very happy Gentlemen indeed, so I hope the sounds prove an extra incentive to complete a highly worthy project.

And now, onto the Avia 57 fleet textures.

[tankerguy72]

Excellent work Nigel! You are the master of Radial sounds! I want to apologize to the people waiting for this aircraft. Had some unexpected delays in real life going on and it has kept me from finishing this model. I really want to get it done and release it to you all, but cant seem to find the time right now. From what I see its pretty close, just cleaning up some things, mapping, and texturing parts. Hope to get her done soon and thanks for the interest and support!

Jeremy :salute:

[Sunny9850]

No worries mate, we will be here when she is ready. No need to stress yourself.

Cheers
Stefan

[Maarten -]

No worries mate, we will be here when she is ready. No need to stress yourself.

Cheers
Stefan

I fully agree. Take care!

Cheers,
Maarten

[Duckie]

Yep! Still holding my "Next In Line" voucher.

[Milton Shupe]

I too am excited about this one. It has a certain "feel" to it. The flight performance is very close to real numbers now although I have a little work left to tweak in the approach speed/lift/pitch characteristics.

She looks great on the ground and in the air. The sounds are just awesome. She feels heavy when loaded and responsive and predictable for its size when empty.

So far, all the speed numbers and takeoff performance seem good to go. She's a real nice hand-flyer IMO.

[tankerguy72]

Sooo finally opened up GMAX for the first time in a couple months. Trying to re familiarize myself with everything again. Lets see if we can get this project on the roll again.

[Maarten -]

Welcome back TG. :wavey: And don't forget: Easy does it.

Best regards,
Maarten

[Milton Shupe]

Sa-lute! :salute: Happy to see you back Sir!

[tankerguy72]

Yeah really want to get this done for everyone here. I know how fun it is to fly right now. Ill start pluggin away little by little now.

[fliger747]

Great to have another talented and hardworking member of the design community. Looking to be a great plane, the passion shows through.

T

[nigel richards]

Great to have another talented and hardworking member of the design community. Looking to be a great plane, the passion shows through.

T

He says it better than I could!:wavey:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks for the support! Trying my best :salute:

Just a shot of flying around the other day working on textures.

72191

[Milton Shupe]

Thanks for the support! Trying my best :salute:

Just a shot of flying around the other day working on textures.

72191


I am loving the progress TG. :applause:

Worked on the FM a little today to reduce lift and pitch when empty and on final approach. I think I am almost there. :-) Big difference between weights of full and empty. :icon_lol:

[Blackbird686]

Man, that is a BIG airplane...:isadizzy:I really enjoy seeing the screen shots and watching this one progress along. Keep up the good work TG! It'll be worth waiting for, but I'll have to build yet another hangar to house that beauty in...

:ernae: -- BB686:USA-flag:

[Milton Shupe]

TG sent updates so I could continue tweaking the FM.

That's me with a big grin on my face. :wiggle:

She lifts off with a full load right where she should, climbs at proper speed at proper VSI.

Set map and RPMs for remainder of climb and she carries on like its a piece of cake.

Cruise is sweet, handling predictable and believable, heavy but responsive.

Still tweaking approach pitch a little more ... just about there.

Lovin' it! :jump:

[tankerguy72]

Nice pics there Milton! If she is departing off Rwy 5 here that must mean its October with the Santa Ana winds and the peak of fire season here! :icon_lol: I have some nice shots of DC-4s departing just like that during the 2003 firestorm here.

7223472235

[nigel richards]

TG sent updates so I could continue tweaking the FM.

That's me with a big grin on my face. :wiggle:

She lifts off with a full load right where she should, climbs at proper speed at proper VSI.

Set map and RPMs for remainder of climb and she carries on like its a piece of cake.

Cruise is sweet, handling predictable and believable, heavy but responsive.

Still tweaking approach pitch a little more ... just about there.

Lovin' it! :jump:

Beautiful shots Milton - You mean to say you've made it even better to fly Sir?
Awesome!!!

Tankerguy72: I'd love a copy of whatever textures you have (they look downright incredible), mine's still minus fuse texes and I'll still have some tweeking to do on the sounds when we are nearer to release.

Keep up the awesome work guys!:wavey:

[Jagdflieger]

Those departure shots of the Privateer and the DC-4 remind me of watching those planes fly out of Grand Junction and Ceder City in the 80s.

[tankerguy72]

Beautiful shots Milton - You mean to say you've made it even better to fly Sir?
Awesome!!!

Tankerguy72: I'd love a copy of whatever textures you have (they look downright incredible), mine's still minus fuse texes and I'll still have some tweeking to do on the sounds when we are nearer to release.

Keep up the awesome work guys!:wavey:

You got it Nigel! Ill have them over to you tomorrow.

[tankerguy72]

Well I must say that I love seeing the little details in flight sim so I wanted this to be as real as it gets or that my abilities would allow. I textured this aircraft using real pictures were i could. Here are some preview shots of the progress.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-24-29-18.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-26-27-93.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-26-38-90.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-27-15-84.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-27-54-87.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0723-31-52-60.jpg

And finally my real life model for optaining the pictures

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/124-1.jpg

[gribouil]

Fantastic preview pictures TG!!! :applause::applause::applause:

[stuartcox]

I'm 'Gobsmacked'!... :salute::applause:

[Milton Shupe]

I'm 'Gobsmacked'!... :salute::applause:

OMG! Does that hurt? :icon_lol:

[Matt Wynn]

OMG! Does that hurt? :icon_lol:

being smacked in the gob by a PB4Y-2 surely has got to hurt... :icon_lol:

[Blackbird686]

Stunning work TG!! Looks like it has been flown a time or two. :ernae:

BB686:USA-flag:

[Duckie]

Man, oh man! :ichile: Stunning texture work, tg72!

[burcham8]

Love it!! I hope someone will also do a repaint for a PB4Y-2G (USCG).

Marc

[tankerguy72]

Love it!! I hope someone will also do a repaint for a PB4Y-2G (USCG).

Marc

Thanks everyone! I love just loading it up in FS and just staring at it, then i remember it flies also haha.

That can be done burcham. A few of these tankers came right from the USCG.

72286

[tankerguy72]

Here is a shot of the VC.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0812-00-01-20.jpg

[Blackbird686]

Very Nice!! Boogying along at 140 KIAS with a full compliment of fire retardant. There's even a fire up ahead for you to drop the red stuff on.

I am so looking forward to flying this one, TG. Looks absolutely stunning! :medals:

BB686:USA-flag:

[Maarten -]

Here is a shot of the VC.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-09-0812-00-01-20.jpg

Awesome, TG! It looks so....real!:applause::applause::applause:

[andersel]

being smacked in the gob by a PB4Y-2 surely has got to hurt... :icon_lol:

Yeah. But it hurts sooo good!

LA

[Cirrus N210MS]

looking great

[burcham8]

Since it's football season...

2 -- 4 -- 6 -- 8

I JUST CAN'T WAIT!!!!

Marc

GREAT WORK, ALL CONCERNED!!! :guinness::guinness::guinness::icon29::icon29::ico n29:

[TARPSBird]

Beautiful work by all involved! :applause: Wasn't sure which pics were the FS bird and which were the real plane.

[nigel richards]

You got it Nigel! Ill have them over to you tomorrow.

Many thanks TG, boy, oh boy...what a great project! :wavey:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks! Yeah its a great aircraft and deserves to live on in flight sim! Havent had any time to work on it lately.. Where does the time go? :isadizzy:

a few shots of the beast on scene.

72944729457294672947

[nigel richards]

Thanks! Yeah its a great aircraft and deserves to live on in flight sim! Havent had any time to work on it lately.. Where does the time go? :isadizzy:

a few shots of the beast on scene.

72944729457294672947


Beautiful shots TeeGee :wavey:
What matters is the pleasure you get from a labour of love.

And boy do I love this one!

[TuFun]

Really like how the metal looks on this bird... impressive!

[Blackbird686]

Thanks! Yeah its a great aircraft and deserves to live on in flight sim! Havent had any time to work on it lately.. Where does the time go? :isadizzy:

a few shots of the beast on scene.

72944729457294672947

I really like the "worn" look on the model... this bird definately looks the part... a seasoned veteran for "Puttin' out Fires" .:cowboy: Beautifully done, TG!

BB686:USA-flag:

[tankerguy72]

I plan on going back to Chino maybe next weekend. So I can get some more interior pics to finish the VC and inside textures. Need to get this beast released.

Does it get any better than a 4Y and F7F in formation?
7308673087

[tankerguy72]

Slow progress again. Just got some flap track textures laid down. I hope to have her done soon. Atleast im still under a year on development :icon_lol:

7348773488

[p3aewguy]

Slow progress again. Just got some flap track textures laid down. I hope to have her done soon. Atleast im still under a year on development :icon_lol:

7348773488

Lookin' Good TG!

[Maarten -]

Yeah! She's looking real life! :applause::applause:

[Milton Shupe]

Nice work TG. I love flying the PB4Y as much as anything I have. :jump:

[b24_witchcraft]

Real nice work TG! Looks almost real! :applause::applause::applause:

[Sunny9850]

I plan on going back to Chino maybe next weekend. So I can get some more interior pics to finish the VC and inside textures. Need to get this beast released.

Does it get any better than a 4Y and F7F in formation?
7308673087

Maybe I'll see you at Flo's or at Yanks. You know I am on site if my Blue on Blue Saratoga is on the ramp.
Looking forward to the PB4Y....when ever she is ready.

Cheers
Stefan

[Sundog]

Granted, I'm hoping this transfers well into FSX, because that's where I actually fly. But Orbx just released some previews that make me hope this works in FSX that much more. :)

http://www.orbxsystems.com/forum/topic/49950-kwys-bush-fires-more-later/

More pics here,
http://www.orbxsystems.com/forum/topic/49971-some-more-from-kwys/

[Milton Shupe]

It has been tested and is working on both sides. I have seen no issues so far.

Clarification EDIT: No issues relative to running it in FSX versus FS9. Obviously the model and package are not yet completed.

After Tankerguy72 makes some adjustments to the model, we intend to release a beta WIP 123 model for you all to test and have a little fun with until TG72 can get some time to finish it and the rest of the variants.

[Jagdflieger]

Sounds like a plan Milt.

[Sundog]

That's great news, thanks. :)

[Maarten -]

It has been tested and is working on both sides. I have seen no issues so far.

After Tankerguy72 makes some adjustments to the model, we intend to release a beta WIP 123 model for you all to test and have a little fun with until TG72 can get some time to finish it and the rest of the variants.

Wow! That sounds great! :jump:

[wbuchart]

It has been tested and is working on both sides. I have seen no issues so far.

After Tankerguy72 makes some adjustments to the model, we intend to release a beta WIP 123 model for you all to test and have a little fun with until TG72 can get some time to finish it and the rest of the variants.

:guinness::guinness::guinness:

[Blackbird686]

Great!! I'll make the arrangements for hangar space, a few good technicians and lots of high octane av-gas. Filling out flight plans now! :salute:

BB686:USA-flag:

[Milton Shupe]

I think TG72 only runs FSX and all his screenshots are from there.

Here is an FSX screenie from my system.

I can't say as to when this release will happen. TG is very RW busy at the moment and there are a number of exterior fixes we would like to include in this early release. Once these get done, I will package her up for an SOH-only WIP release.

[Blackbird686]

I run FSX from time to time... but only have a few "add-on" planes for that sim. I have so much for FS9, payware and freeware that it has become my sim of choice.

BB686:USA-flag: (There... pinched me flag back :a1310:)

[tankerguy72]

I think TG72 only runs FSX and all his screenshots are from there.

Here is an FSX screenie from my system.

I can't say as to when this release will happen. TG is very RW busy at the moment and there are a number of exterior fixes we would like to include in this early release. Once these get done, I will package her up for an SOH-only WIP release.

Nice screenshot Milton!!! Im really hoping to get some time in this weekend. I know you all have waited long enough. I wont be able to totally complete her for a good while so i figured id release a WIP version for you all to mess around with. Just a few things to fix up and should have her off for packaging :salute: wish i could put the real world on pause like in the sim haha!!

[Jagdflieger]

Good news Tankerguy! It'll be fun to fly her over her old haunts in the western states. I'll probably start out from its home base of South Big Horn County (GEY), Greybull, Wyoming.

Here she is waiting on the apron for the WIP release so she can take off.

[tankerguy72]

Ok after many many many unexpected delays a release of the alpha WIP release should be this weekend. Some things have prevented me from stepping up and finishing some corrections to get a nice WIP product, so Milton has generously finished those up so we could release this to all of you. I hope you all will enjoy this as much as I did creating it. It means alot to me to get this aircraft out there and also to pay respect to the crew of 123. Here are a couple recent shots.
:USA-flag::USA-flag: :USA-flag:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1021-11-18-22.png

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1021-13-57-89.png

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1021-11-34-38.png

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1021-11-54-02.png

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1021-13-09-19.png

[PeteHam]

A job well done, it looks fantastic. :applause: :applause:

Looking forward to getting my grubby mitts on this one :jump: :jump:

Pete.

[wbuchart]

...as they look more like pics of the real thing.

Really looking forward to the release of this.

Bill:icon29::icon29:

[Duckie]

Great job tg72! Well worth the wait. :applause::applause:

[magoo]

When I first got into flightsim, it was FS98 and CFS-1.

That sort-of meant coloured origami airplanes flying over green triangle mountains. Look at where we've come to.

Beautiful work Tankerguy72, really evocative. I had to look hard to realize those weren't photos from real world ops.

[Blackbird686]

Great shots TG!! The PB4Y-2 has come along way from the first several posts you made about its beginning. Outstanding work, mate! :medals:

BB686:USA-flag:

[nigel richards]

And the amazing thing is that this is his first model, Gentlemen!

A remarkable labour of love. :applause:

[Sundog]

Wow, truly impressive work. And thanks to Milton for finishing this up. I've really been looking forward to this one.

[Milton Shupe]

Thanks guys. She's a bit rough I reckon like the real McCoys but she is fun to fly.

She's heavy, she's a bit clunky, but she's fun. :-)

Many of the textures are temporary as this hasn't left the build stage yet but I think you will enjoy it.

I got 22+ hours in finalizing this, now testing and awaiting the docs. Should be out by Thursday/Friday if TG gets the docs to me.

[tankerguy72]

Thanks for all the kind words! Did out due my expectations by miles, but only with the help of Milton. She does have the "used and abused" look to her, but im not a fan of brand new looking aircraft so i try to represent that in my textures. Got to get to work on the docs so you all can have an early Christmas present this weekend
:salute:

[p3aewguy]

Thanks for all the kind words! Did out due my expectations by miles, but only with the help of Milton. She does have the "used and abused" look to her, but im not a fan of brand new looking aircraft so i try to represent that in my textures. Got to get to work on the docs so you all can have an early Christmas present this weekend
:salute:

That would be AWESOME TG. Great job on this beauty!

Dave

[t.creed]

an another big ..WOW..!! this really is my favorite time of year, sans the temps..!! :icon_lol:

rgds
t creed

[tankerguy72]

Did a little shadow texture cleanup on the tank today and now onto the docs.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1118-26-42-43.jpg

[Hurricane91]

This gal's sturdy, hard working, and when the job's done, cuts a mean rug. A real sweetheart TG. :o)

[Duckie]

Did a little shadow texture cleanup on the tank today and now onto the docs.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1118-26-42-43.jpg

TG72, just some awsome texture work! I just love this shot. One of the most realistic finishes I've seen. :salute:

[tankerguy72]

Thanks Duckie! Those words mean alot coming from you and the work you have done!

Here are a few new "Glamour" shots showing off some fixes in the textures.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1120-29-22-30.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1120-32-35-06.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1120-30-15-37.jpg

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1120-36-37-23.jpg

[AussieMan]

And the good news is that if it will work in FSX then hopefully it will do the same in P3D which will have me interested as that is all I fly now.

[Milton Shupe]

And the good news is that if it will work in FSX then hopefully it will do the same in P3D which will have me interested as that is all I fly now.

Well, you will get that chance very shortly Pat. I will be interested to know how it shakes out. :-)

[Milton Shupe]

Well, you will get that chance very shortly Pat. I will be interested to know how it shakes out. :-)


Shortly .... very Shortly .... then shake it out ... really just .... shake it out .... :running:

[Milton Shupe]

Just uploaded: http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=6&id=15066

I took the liberty of reducing (the extreme) texture loads. If anyone wants the 32-bit 1024's or 2048's for FSX) I will upload those folders separately.

Ready for launch ...

[WarHorse47]

Got it! Flew it! Well done. I love it. Great job TG (and team). :applause:

I followed the install instructions. Good thing as the aircraft loads into the main 2004 Aircraft folder rather than its own subfolder. Just a precautionary note.

I do have one minor question, however. The aircraft.cfg calls for a second texture folder texture=121. Is there, or will there be, another texture for 'Fire Bomber 121'??

Cheers
:ernae:
--WH

[Milton Shupe]

Got it! Flew it! Well done. I love it. Great job TG (and team). :applause:

I followed the install instructions. Good thing as the aircraft loads into the main 2004 Aircraft folder rather than its own subfolder. Just a precautionary note.

I do have one minor question, however. The aircraft.cfg calls for a second texture folder texture=121. Is there, or will there be, another texture for 'Fire Bomber 121'??

Cheers
:ernae:
--WH


WH,

The installer does not load anywhere. You are instructed to create a temporary folder and browse to it when asked. The installer has no clue what's in it or where it goes; there are no pointers to any FS folder in the installer. Where it goes is entirely up to where you browse to.

Here are the instructions in the installer:

"IMPORTANT: MANUAL INSTALLATION: You must point the install process to a temporary folder. Just create a temporary folder of any name, browse to it (with the ... button) when prompted and go. The package will then be installed in that folder. Afterwards, read the Installation.txt for simple install instructions. The installation instructions will be in your unzipped folder for reference."

Then you get this screen:
"BROWSE TO THE TEMPORARY FOLDER NOW --------------->>>>>>"


There may be a 121 one day.

[HorusJ]

No problems installing and getting airborne.She's a fine piece of FS aircraft and handles great!:applause:
Well done you guys!

J

[Blackbird686]

After a few T&G's and some low to mid altitude flight... very impressive. handles well for a big airplane, has a very realistic "heavy aircraft" feel. Outstanding job, chaps! :salute:

BB686:USA-flag:

[WarHorse47]

WH,

The installer does not load anywhere. You are instructed to create a temporary folder and browse to it when asked. The installer has no clue what's in it or where it goes; there are no pointers to any FS folder in the installer. Where it goes is entirely up to where you browse to.

Here are the instructions in the installer:

"IMPORTANT: MANUAL INSTALLATION: You must point the install process to a temporary folder. Just create a temporary folder of any name, browse to it (with the ... button) when prompted and go. The package will then be installed in that folder. Afterwards, read the Installation.txt for simple install instructions. The installation instructions will be in your unzipped folder for reference."

Then you get this screen:
"BROWSE TO THE TEMPORARY FOLDER NOW --------------->>>>>>"

Nevermind. Gotta go flying.
:ernae:
--WH

[Milton Shupe]

I just uploaded the 32-bit texture set if you feel you need it. It's a heavy load but if you have the equipment, you might try it.

[RobH]

Thank you to all involved! Just took her for a quick flight. Very impressive! I envy your talents :salute:

[SSI01]

Just downloaded everything and will install in a little bit. Don't have to take it for a hop right away to know it is an outstanding piece of work. I am looking forward to that first flight!

I have an observation. Some time ago there was an English scale modeling firm that produced a transport variant of the PB4Y-2, in the kit you were given the choice of building a USN PB4Y-2 or the RCAF RY-3 transport version of the same aircraft. I think the name given the RCAF bird was the "Rockcliffe Ice Wagon." It was the only RY-3 flown by the RCAF. That airplane bears a striking resemblance to this tanker. There's something that may have possibilities for later.

[AussieMan]

Downloading aircraft file and textures. Not long finished work and a bit tired So I will see how much damage I can do to it in P3D tomorrow.

[stuartcox]

Hard to believe that this is still a WIP project!
Very well done indeed! The metal work is incredible.
Thanks TG and Milton & co. for letting us have a taster of what's still to come.

Regards, Stuart

[Ferry_vO]

That looks great! Will definitely give a test tonight! :applause:

Two quick comments about the downloads: The installer for the main package places all the contents that should be inside an aircraft folder directly into Fs9\aircraft, not into Fs9\aircraft\PB4Y Tanker (Or something like that.) and there are two sets of textures in the seperate download; one inside the main zip and another set in the folder 'textures' inside the zip file. Are these identical?

[Milton Shupe]

That looks great! Will definitely give a test tonight! :applause:

Two quick comments about the downloads: The installer for the main package places all the contents that should be inside an aircraft folder directly into Fs9\aircraft, not into Fs9\aircraft\PB4Y Tanker (Or something like that.) and there are two sets of textures in the seperate download; one inside the main zip and another set in the folder 'textures' inside the zip file. Are these identical?

Oh Jeeze! I must need a break ...

EDIT: I have corrected the textures upload to remove the extra set and correct the l_wing bmp.

RE: the aircraft, please just unzip to a temporary folder as suggested in the instructions.

[Crash_Hawk]

Works great in FSX!

For those of you with Shockwave Redux here's a starter set of lights. Adjust if you don't like it.. I'll probably tweak it but there you are..

[LIGHTS]
//Types: 1=beacon, 2=strobe, 3=navigation, 4=cockpit
light.0 = 3, 0, -53.35, 2.7, fx_shockwave_navred
light.1 = 3, 0, 53.35, 2.7, fx_shockwave_navgre
light.2 = 3, -45.8, 0, 1.7, fx_shockwave_navwhi
light.3 = 2, -18.26, 0, 3.77, fx_shockwave_strobe_3
light.4 = 1, -31.00, 0, 7.49, fx_shockwave_beacon_rotating_red
light.5 = 4, 18.379, -1.78, 1.78, fx_vclight
light.6 =5, 6, -17.70, -1.00, fx_shockwave_landing_light_light
light.7 =5, 6, 17.70, -1.00, fx_shockwave_landing_light_light
light.8 =5, 3, -17.70, -1.00, fx_shockwave_landing_light_tail_old
light.9 =5, 3, 17.70, -1.00, fx_shockwave_landing_light_tail_old

Replace your radio section with this and you'll have two ADF's and you'll be able to change frequencies.

[Radios] // availiable, standby frequency, has glide slope
Audio.1 = 1
Com.1 = 1, 0
Com.2 = 1, 0
Nav.1 = 1, 0, 1
Nav.2 = 1, 0, 0
Adf.1 = 1
Adf.2 = 1
Transponder.1 = 1
Marker.1 = 1

This plane is going to get as much time in FSX as my company planes.

Excellent work to all involved!!

Jonathan

[Crash_Hawk]

Additional info for anyone that wants to know..

Pretty good starting point for retardant if you want to replace the smoke system of your .cfg.

[smokesystem]
smoke.0 = -1.305, 0, -9.9, fx_fire_retardantsm

Pick whatever red retardant fx you have, and you'll start to see why the bomb doors are red.. lol

Jonathan

BTW, is there supposed to be an other repaint? The aircraft.cfg refers to texture.121.. I couldn't find the folder anywhere.. I used the installer because it was smaller.. I'll download the manual install later... Thanks

Jonathan

[Milton Shupe]

There is no texture for 121 in the package. It is being worked on still by Tankerguy72.

[huub vink]

Thanks to all involved and especially for Timothy as he had the courage to start this project. You efforts are highly appreciated!

Cheers,
Huub

[Crash_Hawk]

Thanks to all involved and especially for Jeremy as he had the courage to start this project. You efforts are highly appreciated!

Cheers,
Huub


Hear, hear.. Been flying it since I downloaded it! Excellent work!

Jonathan

PB4Y N7620C over Montana, inbound to Missoula International. (FSX Acceleration)

77228

[Rallymodeller]

Love it. The dynamics sure as heck feel like a big plane. Only two beefs:

1. The animation of the side window opening seems to be messed up: instead of sliding back, it slides up and hangs in midair.

2. The 2D panel is a little sketchy. However, I have taken it upon myself to correct that. I cleaned up the window areas and got rid of the daylight leakage around the instruments. You can download the touched-up file here:

http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?fasupbbwobh9oaa

Unzip and drop the updated "Panel2D.bmp" into your panel folder, overwriting if asked and so on.


Anyway, fantastic! This'll become a fave in my hangar to be sure.

[AussieMan]

I had a quick look last night in P3D and I experienced the usual portover problem with the props. But as I have the WOP version I will try to use their props.

[Milton Shupe]

I had a quick look last night in P3D and I experienced the usual portover problem with the props. But as I have the WOP version I will try to use their props.

I included an FSX folder with a prop. :-)

[AussieMan]

Oops silly me :isadizzy: need to go back and check :)

[tankerguy72]

Glad you all are enjoying it so much! Special thanks to Milton and Nigel for their work. You guys need to post more pics! Id like to see what adventures she is getting in to haha!

Oh and as for the questions on the Tanker 121 paint, I had initially done 121 but when i remapped after adjusting the model it changed the texture layout. I will upload that paint when i get some time to fix it up right.

[Navtech]

Thank you .. great aircraft

Something seems missing ....

http://i.imgur.com/Jnb65.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YFKeE.jpg

[Milton Shupe]

Thank you .. great aircraft

Something seems missing ....

http://i.imgur.com/Jnb65.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/YFKeE.jpg

There are many things yet to be done, but if you have a point to make, please make it. I do not understand what you are getting at, and there are lots of knowns yet to be done.

[Navtech]

The props are not seen when view from the rear ...

[Milton Shupe]

The props are not seen when view from the rear ... Ohhhhh! LOL Okay, I think there is no mesh on the backside. Thanks for being specific.

[Volker Böhme]

Hi all,

the aircraft looks great. Just two things that I noticed: there seem to be some all black (0,0,0) pixels on the 2D windscreen, particularly on the left. And the gauge markings don't match engine performance - at full throttel I don't even get to the yellow arc. It was just a quick look and these things are really minor. Overall, the model is excellent.

I'll report back if I find something else.

Best regards,
Volker

[Volker Böhme]

Hi,

one more thing - please look at the aileron trim tab animation. With a good twist of the trim whell, they're several yards off the wing.

Best regards,
Volker

[Milton Shupe]

Hi all,

the aircraft looks great. Just two things that I noticed: there seem to be some all black (0,0,0) pixels on the 2D windscreen, particularly on the left. And the gauge markings don't match engine performance - at full throttel I don't even get to the yellow arc. It was just a quick look and these things are really minor. Overall, the model is excellent.

I'll report back if I find something else.

Best regards,
Volker


Hi,

one more thing - please look at the aileron trim tab animation. With a good twist of the trim whell, they're several yards off the wing.

Best regards,
Volker


LOL Volker, thanks for those observations. Now it is clear why Tankerguy72 calls this a Works-In-Process. He will not be able to get back on this aircraft for some months but at least we get to play with it in the interim. :-)

The panel work is the best I could do not being a panel/gauge guru and with no graphics program, feel free to dress it up, clean it up, and modify it for your personal use while we await TG72's return to the project.

I am sure TG is keeping a list of these issues as people discover them.

Thanks

[Professor Cavor]

Hi! I'm new here. I'd just like to thank TG, Milton and all the rest who have contributed to this great project. I've been wanting a PB4Y firebomber for longer than I care to admit. I down loaded it this morning, and took it out for a few take offs and landings. I found it to be well behaved and fairly easy to handle (as long as you don't get too slow on the approach! LOL).

Yup. I noticed that you can't see the props from behind too.

One other thing I noticed, not sure if anyone else has mentioned it, but when you open the exit, the pilots window goes up instead of sliding aft. I do like the animation of the pilot turning his head when the window opens, though - nice touch!

I'm using it in FS9 on a fairly basic machine.

Again, thanks!
George

[tankerguy72]

Thanks to you all. As Milton mentioned this project is still far from finished, but I didnt want to keep it from you all while Im busy with RL. My notepad is definitely filling up now :icon_lol: Im aware of these issues and they will be fixed on a future update. So feel free to point out whatever you see, it is appreciated.

and please remember the reason for this project


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMCq22Vpa18

[Jagdflieger]

Thanks for the old 123 Tankerguy. I think that I posted early in this thread that I saw her fly on a couple of occasions in the Rocky Mountain area and I look forward to taking her helm as soon as I get my FS 9 up and flying again.

[Milton Shupe]

With Tankerguy72's permissions and your suggestions, I have corrected the prop mesh, the aileron trim animation, and the window animation.

If you need the panel bmp leaks corrected, simply download the one posted above by RallyModeller.

I will post the updated model here shortly after testing.

EDIT: Model Updated as stated above

[Milton Shupe]

See the attachment in the previous post please.

[Moses03]

Thanks tankerguy, Milton and whoever else contributed.:applause:

http://i47.tinypic.com/2iln712.jpg

[HorusJ]

I saw a couple of PB4Ys fly out of then Jeffco(since renamed)when I lived in Westminster CO along with P2Vs,DC4s,and C-130s back in the late 90s but can't remember the tanker numbers,123 might have been one of them.I do remember one was painted and one wasn't. I watched for hours!
Anyways I am lovin this bird!:jump:
Heres a couple of shots out of SBA:salute:
7731177312

[Navtech]

See the attachment in the previous post please.
:salute:

[Blackbird686]

With Tankerguy72's permissions and your suggestions, I have corrected the prop mesh, the aileron trim animation, and the window animation.

If you need the panel bmp leaks corrected, simply download the one posted above by RallyModeller.

I will post the updated model here shortly after testing.

EDIT: Model Updated as stated above

Thanks for doing that, Milton. I reckon since it was a WIP, that the mods would come out sooner or later...lol!

BB686:USA-flag:

[Milton Shupe]

Thanks for doing that, Milton. I reckon since it was a WIP, that the mods would come out sooner or later...lol!

BB686:USA-flag:

Thanks. These were easy fixes and since TG had not modified the latest gmax source I returned to him, it was a no brainer. Happy to do that for these obvious issues I somehow overlooked. :-/

[Professor Cavor]

Just thought I'd share a pic of the PB4Y in FS9 on a flight from Weed to Nevada County (formerly Grass Valley).

77363

Thanks, again, to everybody involved in this project!:salute:

George

[nigel richards]

Just thought I'd share a pic of the PB4Y in FS9 on a flight from Weed to Nevada County (formerly Grass Valley).

77363

Thanks, again, to everybody involved in this project!:salute:

George

Beautiful, atmospherical photo, George!

Welcome aboard Sir - thanks for sharing.:salute:

[Terry]

Just thought I'd share a pic of the PB4Y in FS9 on a flight from Weed to Nevada County (formerly Grass Valley).

77363

Thanks, again, to everybody involved in this project!:salute:

George

I like that name your using. A little cavorite painted on the bottom of the B-24 would sure save fuel.

[tankerguy72]

Great pics! Took the two tankers up for a short flight.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1612-45-16-16_zpsec81c256.jpg

[nigel richards]

Great pics! Took the two tankers up for a short flight.

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1612-45-16-16_zpsec81c256.jpg

Stunning! :wavey:

[tankerguy72]

Making headway on the 121 Texture. Need some more touchups, paint the gear struts, and fix some lines. Maybe today or tomorrow hopefully
:USA-flag::USA-flag::USA-flag:

http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv194/TankertownUSA/fsx2012-12-1616-22-45-82_zps3cf2d83b.png

[Milton Shupe]

Yeaaaaa!!!!!! :applause:

[tankerguy72]

Decided to do it right and do more detail work so it may be a little bit longer. Finishing rivet work and making her look like a working girl. Im sure it will be worth the wait.

77404

[stuartcox]

A few more 'Retro-Screenies'...
I love it TG!

77408 77409 77410

Regards,Stuart

[Hurricane91]

Great photos Stuart!

[vonernsk]

This model, even in its current un-finished state, has real presence. Like Mc Donnell's Phantom its ugliness is its draw. From the low-squat on the tarmac to the outright outrageous front end, this aircraft exudes attitude like a well-worn dump truck.


Married to a very nice flight model, Nigel's sounds and such a good 3D model I am sure that those with the know will, in time, transform 'Tanker 123' into a classic.


Thanks to everyone who dragged her out for our appreciation and enjoyment.


Mal

[Blackbird686]

Well said, mate... she does give one a sense of "attitude". I like that about the model. Her structural repulsiveness is matched only by her incredible ability to get the job done, and her persistant strength to "stay the course".

BB686:USA-flag:

[Milton Shupe]

A few more 'Retro-Screenies'...
I love it TG!

77408 77409 77410

Regards,Stuart

Great shots Stuart! Love that look of old photo realism :applause:

[Milton Shupe]

This model, even in its current un-finished state, has real presence. Like Mc Donnell's Phantom its ugliness is its draw. From the low-squat on the tarmac to the outright outrageous front end, this aircraft exudes attitude like a well-worn dump truck.


Married to a very nice flight model, Nigel's sounds and such a good 3D model I am sure that those with the know will, in time, transform 'Tanker 123' into a classic.


Thanks to everyone who dragged her out for our appreciation and enjoyment.


Mal

Mal, you have expressed my attraction to her well. I do love her "squat" and her distinctive "look" embellished with these photoreal textures to give the sense of old and tired yet reliably capable in her simplicity. Give me 4 big radials, a hand full of throttle and let's go flyin'. :wiggle:

[phantomx1]

Nice model as ugly as it is, but it is very nice in that it is an aircraft with an important purpose/mission. I suppose a "dump truck" is a good description for it, my first impression was a "flying warehouse with wings". But the mission purpose of fire fighting makes a very good reason to be attracted to the utility of it.

I had found in my FS9 Effects cache a long lasting red "fire retardant" that had come from one of the Bell Textron 212's from Hovercontrol that I aliased to the PB4Y which increased the usefulness of this strategic flying piece of equipment. However, that particular effect could stand to be more copious, but it's nice that it lays on the ground for a very long time so that you can easily observe the area swaths you had previously laid down, even after you have returned to base to reload several times.

Another thing I did was to add direct steering to the nose wheel which I felt greatly improved visual reality to this nice piece of aerial fire fighting equipment while observing taxying on the ground in spot view and in tower view mode.

To get that direct steering, change the first line of the [contact points] section, seventh digit input, which was 180 and changed it to 45 to get the direct steering.

Very nice forest fire fighting piece of equipment and not a bad cross country flier to use for delivering other things such as fire fighting supplies to other base setups around the country. Adding auto pilot navigation might would come in handy for some of those long trips.

The flying characteristics seem right on. The sound files are nice too but I might try my hand to get the exterior engine volumes up a little bit.

[tankerguy72]

This model, even in its current un-finished state, has real presence. Like Mc Donnell's Phantom its ugliness is its draw. From the low-squat on the tarmac to the outright outrageous front end, this aircraft exudes attitude like a well-worn dump truck.


Married to a very nice flight model, Nigel's sounds and such a good 3D model I am sure that those with the know will, in time, transform 'Tanker 123' into a classic.


Thanks to everyone who dragged her out for our appreciation and enjoyment.


Mal


Best description I have heard of the 4Y!

[tankerguy72]

Still working on 121. Didnt get much time today. Should have it out definitely by the weekend.

Decided to try my real flight vs sim flight and got it pretty close. Must say the real flight was a little more fun.

77522

[tankerguy72]

Rookie rivet work in progress.

[Professor Cavor]

Looks Great, Tanker Guy!:applause:

Thanks for the kind comments Nigel! My system isn't that great. I had to crank up all the setting just for that pic and was only getting about 8 -10 FPS.

Terry, I'm glad somebody got my screenname before I posted my avatar!