CSR-103 Corsaviour amphibian, RCAF 1959

[Glenn Gilbertson]

The successof the O-64 Corsaviour encouraged the RCAF to order an amphibian version, accepting the added weight and tricky cross-wind runway handling in return for the added flexibility. A favourite with pilots, the machines survived into the "high-vis" markings era.
Once again an old Matchbox 1/72 F4U-4 was taken from store, and the fuselage cut and detailed using plastikard scraps. A new rear canopy was home-moulded - JHM, you asked for details about fitting this; the gross surplus clear sheet was removed with a thin razor saw, further trimming with sharp scissors, fine adjustment with file and sandpaper. Fixing was with Kristal Klear and blending with Miliput.

An old Frog Swordfish provided the floats, doors were cut out and the kit undercarriage trimmed to fit.

The finish was inspired by the Cansos and Otters of the period. Markings were mostly from the spares box. The small "Maritime Air Command" and flourescent "Rescue" lettering posed a problem. I tried a product called "Decal-It" that I had in store  - it claimed to turn any print into a decal. I duly printed out the markings with my inkjet printer, let the ink dry thoroughly, and tried the solution - disaster! The inks all ran together. The only clear decal sheet that I had turned out to be unsuitable for an inkjet, so I finished by hand painting "Rescue" with Humbrol Blaze enamel. The "Maritime Air Command" ink was covered with Humbrol  Satin-Cote - not a great success.

[Maverick]

Awesome build Glenn, that's imagination plus & really well executed. 

[kitnut617]

Absolutely wicked Glenn, the two of them go together really well.

[anthonyp]

I keep forgetting to comment on this one...

Brilliant build, Glenn!  That is really nice.   

[Brian da Basher]

Holy smokes, a second one, Glenn??? Astonishing! It looks great in Canadian markings too!!!!

Brian da Basher

[anthonyp]

...  I just realized you did TWO of them!   

I have really been out of it lately...  I need to build again!!!!!!

[Captain Canada]

Beauty, Glenn ! She really looks sharp in those colours. Reminds me of the Skyraider SAR bird that Baz built a few years back.