Scratch-built 1/32 Scale PBM-3D Mariner
By Ron Denning
This is a scratch built 1:32 scale PBM-3D Mariner.
Basic construction is of formers, ribs, and stringers. The structure was then covered with thin plastic. The Mariner sports (3) twin 50 cal. Turrets, mooring cable, beaching gear, detailed cockpit and engineer/radar equipment area. Cockpit egress hatches, side sliding windows, and forward access door are modeled open for viewing the interior.
A three color paint scheme was used to depict the Pacific theatre. The cowlings and engines are from Corsair kits. The propellers are P-47's that have been extended to the proper diameter. The engine cooling fans have been deleted to provide viewing of the engines.
The Catalina always gets the limelight, but the Mariner saved more downed pilots than the PBY. She is not the best looking boat in the fleet, but a great aircraft to model and research.
© Ron Denning
This article was published on Friday, September 27 2013; Last modified on Saturday, May 14 2016