F4U-4 Corsair – NAS Olathe, Kansas
Building a Hybrid from Hasegawa & Tamiya Kits (1/48)
Inspiration
This project began with a simple idea: could I combine two different Corsair kits into one unique and convincing F4U-4 build? The answer came in the form of marrying the classic Hasegawa F4U-4 kit with the excellent Tamiya F4U-1. My goal was to recreate a weathered Corsair from NAS Olathe, Kansas, resting in the boneyard under the Kansas sun.
Construction & Kitbashing
After evaluating both kits, I chose to use the fuselage and wings from the Tamiya kit and the engine and four-blade propeller from the Hasegawa F4U-4. This combination offered better surface detail and accuracy.
The biggest challenge was adapting the bottom of the fuselage to accommodate the Hasegawa engine section, which required careful trimming, dry-fitting, and patience.
There is still no truly accurate or modern F4U-4 kit in 1/48 scale, so this hybrid approach, supported by aftermarket parts, was the best available option. The Verlinden Productions detail set for the Hasegawa F4U-4 (resin and photo-etched accessories) proved extremely helpful, especially around the engine and cockpit area.
Painting & Weathering
The model was first primed and painted with Alclad ALC-101 Aluminum to simulate a metallic base. This layer would serve as the foundation for paint chipping effects.
Top Surface: I applied Model Master FS 36440 Light Gull Gray.
Then, using the salt weathering technique, I sprayed a second layer with FS 36622 Camouflage Gray for tonal variation.
Underside: painted with a matt white.
The upper surfaces received FS 35164 Intermediate Blue, matching late-war/navy reserve schemes.
The front cowling was shaded with subtle dry-brushing to simulate soot and operational wear. Before sealing the paintwork, I gently rubbed certain areas with tissue paper to reveal the aluminum base and enhance realism.
The entire model was sealed with Hobby Color H-20 Flat Clear.
Final Touches
I applied an oil wash using a mix of Ochre and Raw Umber (1:4) to bring out panel lines and surface detail. Additional weathering was added with pigments and pastels.
The finishing step was a dusting with MP Hobby RW 02 “Dust” pigment, applied with a wide brush to simulate dried Kansas earth and long-term exposure.
Painting & Weathering Process
Modeling Notes:
FS 35042 Gloss Sea Blue was standard U.S. Navy postwar finish—perfect for NAS Olathe aircraft.
FS 36622 Camouflage Gray is excellent for the salt technique and layered weathering effects.
FS 36440 Light Gull Gray can be used for subtle fading on panels or repainted areas.
A matte black cowling front adds visual depth and realism, common on Corsair front engine sections.
Using Aluminum as a base coat under chipping areas simulates worn metal where paint has flaked off.
| FS Code | Color Name | Used For | Tamiya | Mr Hobby (GSI) | AK Real Colors | Hataka |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FS 35042 | Gloss Sea Blue | Main aircraft color (upper & sides) | XF-17 (Navy Blue) | H54 | RC246 | HTK-A041 |
| FS 36622 | Camouflage Gray | Salt technique / weathered panels | XF-19 (Light Gray) | H311 | RC227 | HTK-A031 |
| FS 36440 | Light Gull Gray | Panel fading, scuffing, base variation | XF-55 / AS-26 | H315 | RC222 | HTK-A002 |
| — | Flat Black (matt) | Engine cowl front, stains | XF-1 | H12 | RC001 | HTK-A041 (Black) |
| — | Bare Metal (Aluminum) | Base for chipping / salt weathering | LP-70 / TS-17 | H8 | RC020 | HTK-A040 |
Weathering:
Tissue rubbing for exposed metal
Oil wash: Ochre + Raw Umber (1:4)
Dust pigments: MP Hobby RW 02
Matte seal: Hobby Color H-20 Flat Clear
Conclusion
Despite the limitations of available kits, this F4U-4 hybrid captures the rugged and faded beauty of a real postwar Corsair parked at NAS Olathe. A mix of kitbashing, classic weathering techniques, and patience made it possible to breathe new life into two old kits—just like the sunbaked relics waiting in the boneyard
Have you ever tried mixing kits to build a more accurate aircraft? Share your experience in the comments or tag us with your Corsair builds!
Fly high with your creativity—always.