FR P-40N: Update

[mike_cyul]

Just thought I'd bring everyone up to date. :)

It's been time consuming, but things are coming together. Right now there are seven models/variants of the P-40N, and four different panels. Almost all of the modelling work is done, and most of the xml. Latest version to be done is the version equipped with the Bendix MN-26 navigation system. This wont work as the real one, unfortunately, but it has been coded to permit you to navigate using VOR and ADF within FSX, and so when in multiplayer, for example, on a longer range mission, you can lead your standard-equipped squadron back to base by the quickest route, etc., just as the real Bendix-equipped aircraft did, or help find a target far across the sea.

During the research, I came across an obscure RAAF manual for how the 'contactor' gauge worked and was installed, and while it now equips the FSX model, I was also able to forward this to the real P-40N-1-CU pilot and P-40 manager at Vintage Wings, who previously was not entirely sure how this gauge actually worked. He was very happy to receive the document. The sim world giving to the real warbird world, for a change. :)

And.... I was considering trying to do the complete P-40 line, much like the Super Cub package. To this end I started modelling the E model, to see what kind of time it would take. The good news is that the external model of the E is finished, but doing the F and K, plus their cockpits, would just take too much time for now, and so I'll get to them once the N is out. Otherwise this project will never get done!

Anyway, here's some new screenshots. More news soon. :)

Mike


Bendix equipped aircraft. Note loop antenna on top of fuselage:

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/94_zps732d6e99.jpg

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/93_zps74a2b390.jpg

Silver boxes are the Bendix system. Gauge at far left of panel points towards the radio signal. Box at right is to rotate the loop antenna.

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/95_zpsb4683f01.jpg



Serial numbers using these panels. Note the Contactor gauge (the one with the small round face set on a standard sized instrument.)

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/96_zpsef18f3b0.jpg

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/97_zps0716b272.jpg


The P-40E. The brown and green aircraft is from the 33rd Fighter Group, when in training at Martin Field, Baltimore in early 1942. The unit went on to have quite the fighting history. Paint scheme was developed for the Kitthawk 1 version, going to the RAF etc..

Going to have to buy new aircraft manuals, etc. in order to do the cockpits of the E, F and K accurately....

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/87_zps73f4f78b.jpg

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/88_zpse558bba2.jpg

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/89_zps82da8df3.jpg

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff311/mike_cyul/FR_P-40N/86_zps9b0cad6e.jpg

[Cirrus N210MS]

totaly amazing work There Mike I Really Am Looking forward to your P40 I Love to fly my Accu Sim Version cant Wait to get a Copy Of yours :salute: Here is a Photo I Took at Chino CA Of a P40 you Will Like

https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc6/228933_500413643329069_1619865411_n.jpg
https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/580085_500413549995745_495093295_n.jpg
https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/581571_500413003329133_1749717215_n.jpg
https://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/576617_500412796662487_1117444975_n.jpg
https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/544405_500411689995931_353376790_n.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

how about this......out out your N aircraft...inlucde the other models with the N cockpit....then as you complete the cockpits you put them out as add-ons? SOLD!!!!!

[PRB]

This project is looking just beautiful. Nice work, Mike. Looking forward to this one.

[Ian Warren]

And.... I was considering trying to do the complete P-40 line, much like the Super Cub package. To this end I started modelling the E model, to see what kind of time it would take. The good news is that the external model of the E is finished, but doing the F and K, plus their cockpits, would just take too much time for now, and so I'll get to them once the N is out. Otherwise this project will never get done!
This maybe something i can help out with , the P-40 near ending its restoration is a "E" , not sure what manuals they may have in the archives but the aircraft has been brought up to the standard of era , panel detail and all i believe , on display is a the cockpit and radio equipment in the museum ..ill ask around and see what i can get my hands on .


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[Ian Warren]

I have many manuals on CD the more exotic aircraft types , but they do cover other a New Zealand - Wellington base firm has this to offer http://www.flight-manuals-on-cd.com/ and very cheap .


I also brought my self a new camera so i would be able score some very up to-date photo of the current restoration build . <input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input jscode="leoInternalChangeDone()" onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden"><input id="gwProxy" type="hidden"><input onclick="if(typeof(jsCall)=='function'){jsCall();}else{setT imeout('jsCall()',500);}" id="jsProxy" type="hidden">

[Bomber_12th]

Another great update, Mike!

I'm glad you're not the type to be taking the short route by just making a generic representation (a one cockpit, one exterior type of deal), and rather taking your time to showcase so many different historical variations, as there were. It is great to see the P-40E and I look forward to that separate project and the others you've mentioned in addition to the N! (Although I have said it a number of times already, it's so great to see such accurate models, built to the original blueprints.)

The cockpits really look stunning! I love all of the heads-up, in your face detail all around the windscreen/gun sight/panel (and the cockpit as a whole). It really looks like you get the fealing of sitting in and being enclosed in a beefy aircraft. The gages themselves look excellent, and very natural/realistic. Really nice to see you go all out with the MN-26 hardware, and to see the different panels and cockpit finishes to match the production blocks! I also love the look of the early USAAC E-model with the RAF camoflage scheme.

It sounds like you've been in communication with Dave Hadfield! Although I have never chatted with him, from his online postings he seems to have a fantastic enthusiasm for warbirds and vintage aircraft and I have enjoyed when he has shared his experiences flying the VWOC P-40N and the general happenings at the museum.

Just absolutely excellent!

[txnetcop]

Like John said...stunningly beautiful cockpits!!! Great work Mike OUTSTANDING!!!
Ted

[PRB]

I'm always fascinated by the technology of the day, and how advanced it really was. From the YE-ZB homing system USN aircraft used, to the IFF systems all the services used, to the phased array radars systems used for main battery director control on the old Pearl Harbor survivor battlewagons by 1944. That was pretty complex stuff, and laid the groundwork for systems in use today. All those fancy-pants Bendix gadgets cluttering up the cockpit of these P-40s reminds me again of this fascination. Good stuff!

[Sundog]

Thanks for the previews and the update. Outstanding work, as usual. I'm really looking forward to the N as it was my favorite production P-40.

On a side note, I'll be putting your Super Cubs to work again soon, as Orbx Southern Alaska is close to release. ;)

[mike_cyul]

It sounds like you've been in communication with Dave Hadfield! Although I have never chatted with him, from his online postings he seems to have a fantastic enthusiasm for warbirds and vintage aircraft and I have enjoyed when he has shared his experiences flying the VWOC P-40N and the general happenings at the museum.

Just absolutely excellent!

Yes, Dave kindly had a look at the model in December, and was helpful in pointing out some details that even drawings and photos seem to leave out. He's also offered to test fly the model, but doesn't have FSX on his computer. He has invited me to send a CD, or come by the house, the latter perhaps may be the easiest as I can bring a laptop.

His brother is presently commanding the International Space Station (ISS). Talk about an accomplished family.

@Cirrus: Nice photos! Just beautiful.

@Ian: When the time comes, pictures could be very useful. Thanks!

@Ted: Was hoping you'd show up, given your avatar.:)

@Sundog: Have fun! I've helped a few real Alaskan Super Cub owners do some paint schemes for their aircraft over the past year, and each has invited me up for some 'real flying' in return. May have to see how the sim Cubs compare to real Alaska flying one day! That would be a dream come true.

Mike

[txnetcop]

Mike I lived just a few blocks from Tex Hill who live in Terrell Tx. All the kids in the neighborhood listened to his stories and all of us had P-40 mania!!! It is still my favorite aircraft today. Super AWESOME WORK!

[wombat666]

Looking very tasty so far Mike! :applause:
And do take your time with the Merlin powered versions, they are quite different, and I'm very patient.
:kilroy:

[Daube]

The plane looks really good, especially the cockpit. Also, I like that white-belly repaint. Overall, the external model textures are producing quite a convincing effect.

However, I still don't like the canopy glass area. Compared with the rest of the model, the canopy looks far behind. I'm not talking about 3D modelization, which is fantastic here. I'm talking about the glass "material" and the textures visible through it. It doesn't look so realistic, it still has this "milky" effect that reminds me of these very old FS model. Please don't take this bad, I'm just trying to describe what and why I don't like it, it's not something easy for somebody like me who doesn't know the exact modelling terms/words.

When comparing with the real life pictures, we can realise that the canopy glass should be more reflective, just a littly bit more transparent, and the area behind the pilot should show some shadows of the canopy structure. I believe the enhancement of this area of your plane would make it look even more realistic.

EDIT: well, after looking at several pictures of the real P40N, it looks like the canopy transparency of your model is quite ok in fact. Sorry for that. :/

[Smashing Time]

Outstanding work on those cockpits Mike!
If you don't have the 'in detail' book here are a few manual shots of the 'E" you can download here.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y260/SmashingBomb/img146_zpse41402cf.jpg

[stovall]

Great work Mike, wish I could share Wombat666's patience. Something to think about and look forward to every day.

[MudMarine]

Ya, I'm not feeling patient either!:icon_lol: Very excited for this one! and an Me-262 update!

[FentiFlier1]

Just one word: Fantastic!

Owen