1:48 Sea King (all versions) - weighted wheel set (3D Printed)

Weighted wheels for the Sea King, 1:48 scale

This is an accessory set, not a helicopter model. It contains wheels with tires shaped as though the machine really stood on them, that is, with a deformed contact patch. The difference from a perfectly circular wheel from the kit is immediately apparent on a finished model, because the eye subconsciously looks for whether the machine is standing on the surface or merely touching it. On a helicopter the effect is even more pronounced than on an aircraft: the machine stands most of the time and its weight rests on fairly small wheels. According to the name, the set can be used for all versions of the type.

The real subject

The Sea King is a twin-engine helicopter originally developed for anti-submarine warfare. It has a boat-shaped hull bottom that allows it to make an emergency landing on water, and side sponsons. Besides naval service it also spread into the rescue and transport roles and served for decades in many countries.

Usage tips

• Wash the parts in lukewarm soapy water; residue stays on the surface after printing.
• Cut the print supports off as close to the part as possible and sand the marks down; they have nothing to do with casting.
• Fit the wheel so that the deformed area points toward the ground, otherwise the effect does not work.
• Bond with super glue and apply a primer before painting.
• Do not paint the tire black; use a dark gray and add dust on the sidewalls.

Who it is for

The set is for helicopter modelers who are finishing off the landing gear. The work is quick and is one of those changes where the ratio of effort spent to visible improvement is at its most favorable.

It is not a helicopter model. The base kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.