FG-1D Corsair ‘Race 94’: From WWII to Reno – History, Conversions & Modeling
Introduction
The FG-1D Corsair, BuNo 92050 and radio call sign N194G, known as “Race 94” or “Big Hummer”, is one of the iconic aircraft that linked the US Air Force to racing. From its production by Goodyear in 1945 to its impressive presence in the National Championship Air Races, its history is a model of technical innovation and aviation culture.
BuNo 92050 History
Construction & Military Service (1945–1954)
Built as FG-1D by Goodyear on 12 May 1945.
Joined the US Navy as BuNo 92050.
Served until 1954 at various bases in the US.
Transferred to NAAF Salem and retired from active service (SOC) at NAS Minneapolis.
Purchased by Private Owners – RENO Era (1963–1972)
Passed into civilian hands by Jim Colbern in 1963, with civilian registration N6604C.
Purchased by Bob Mitchem in 1967, based in Colorado.
The Transformation into a Corsair Racer
First Appearance at Reno (1967)
Upon arrival at Reno-Stead Airport, it suffered mechanical failure (exploded R-2800 cylinders) and a flat tire during landing.
It failed to participate in the race.
Radical Modifications (1970–1972)
The Corsair was transformed into a thoroughbred racer with a series of technical interventions:
Section Modification
Wings Reduction of overhang by 20 inches, surface grinding, complete sealing of wings
Air Intake Elimination of side air ducts – Ram air intake in the cowling
Engine P&W R-2800 with many modifications
Propeller Replacement with huge A-1 Skyraider propeller
Spinner Installation of spinner from P-51H Mustang
Cowling Removal of cowling flaps – installation of custom fairing
Racing History (1967–1972)
Year Race Number Place Average Speed
1967 Reno #94 Did Not Participate —
1970 Reno #94 “Big Hummer” 3rd (Reserve) 357.95 mph
1971 Reno #94 Pylon cut —
1972 Reno #94 5th (Trophy) 341.99 mph
1972 Miami #94 5th (Trophy) 341.98 mph
Modeling Performance – How to Build “Race 94”
Recommended Kits
Base: Tamiya 1/48 F4U-1D (with modifications)
Modifications:
Wings shortening (scratchbuild)
Engine fairing (custom cowling)
Ram air intake (styrene or resin)
Skyraider propeller (aftermarket)
P-51H spinner (kitbash from Mustang)
FS Color & Surface Guide for FG-1D Corsair “Race 94”
| Surface / Component | Material | Model Representation | FS Code | Suggested Paints |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Main Fuselage & Wings | Aluminum | Natural metal finish | — | AK Xtreme Metal Aluminum / Mr. Color 211 / Tamiya AS-12 |
| Engine & Cowling | Metal | Polished metal, light weathering | — | Mr. Metal Color 218 + wash |
| Wing Outer Panels | Fabric / Wood | Low-sheen gray paint | FS 36320 | Mr. Color C307 / AK RC252 / Tamiya XF-19 mix |
| Control Surfaces (rudder, elevators, ailerons) | Fabric / Wood | Red & white alternating pattern (race scheme) | FS 11136 (Red) / FS 17875 (White) | Mr. Color C327 / C1 / Tamiya XF-7 + XF-2 |
| Cockpit Interior | Metal | Interior Green / Zinc Chromate | FS 34151 | Mr. Color C351 / Tamiya XF-71 |
| Spinner (P-51H type) | Painted Metal | White / Aluminum / Later black | FS 17875 | Tamiya XF-2 / Mr. Color C1 / or black XF-1 |
| Late Scheme – Engine Cowling | Painted Metal | “Checkered” design (possibly red-black or white-black) | — | Custom masking or decal |
Notes:
The red & white control surface pattern was not standard military livery, but a custom racing aesthetic used for visual impact and team branding.
If you are modeling the aircraft in its 1972 configuration, this color scheme is essential.
Precise masking or custom decals are highly recommended to achieve accurate contrast between red and white on the fabric surfaces.
https://www.aerialvisuals.ca/AirframeDossier.php?Serial=6841