1:35 230 gallon fuel tanks (AFMS) for AH-64, MH-60L, UH-60A, HH-60 (2 pcs)

230 gallon auxiliary tanks for helicopters, 1:35

A pair of tanks according to the name of the package, aimed at the American AH-64, MH-60L, UH-60A and HH-60 helicopters. The AFMS designation and the volume of 230 gallons are taken from the name of the item. The tanks are hung on the external mountings of a finished model and change its appearance from a combat fit to an arrangement for a transit flight.

Where the tanks were carried

Machines of the Sikorsky H-60 family carry extra fuel on side stub wings by the fuselage, thanks to which an ordinary range becomes a transit over a great distance. The AH-64 attack helicopter uses the mountings under its stub wings in much the same way: where armament hangs at other times, there can be fuel for a ferry flight. Cigar-shaped tanks with end stabilizing surfaces therefore belong to machines being prepared for a long route, not to the typical fit over a battlefield. For a modeler it is a rewarding swap, because a single part changes the character of the whole machine.

Fitting and painting

The tanks are fitted at the end, after the fuselage and the stub wings are painted, so that they are not damaged in handling. Before gluing it is advisable to wash them and to level the mark left by the casting block with an abrasive sponge. On large smooth areas an even spray and discreet soiling around the attachments and the filler necks stand out. A flat contact face is the key, otherwise the tank hangs crooked and spoils the whole model.

Who it suits

• Builders of H-60 family machines in 1:35 scale
• Models of the AH-64 attack helicopter in a ferry fit
• Two tanks according to the figure in the name, that is a pair for one machine
• Modelers who enjoy varying the external loads