Barracuda Studios have released a replacement resin radiator front for Eduard's new-tool 1:48 Hawker Tempests.

The master patterns are by Roy Sutherland, for whom the Tempest is one of his favourite aircraft, and the parts show all the superb detailing we've come to expert from this master modeller.

The set arrives in a small zip-lock bag with a cardboard header and is accompanied by a clear sheet of instructions that feature colour photos of the model parts along with a period reference shot.

Their are two resin castings. The first is a direct replacement for part #E43 in the Eduard kit. The big difference is that Roy has added an extended tube and supporting fins for the central carburettor intake. The second casting provides a shroud to surround this and the oil cooler, along with an optional dust filter. (Note: if you add the dust filter, the instructions advise that you'll need to add metal braces from scratch, as shown in the reference photo that Barracuda Studios include.)

The casting is flawless in the sample set, with wonderfully thin walls and fins for the carburettor intake and shroud. The parts look very straightforward to prepare and fit and will make an instantly visible change in the gaping maw of the Sabre-powered Tempest Mk. V (the Mk. VI moved the carburettor intake to the wing root).

Item #BR48401 is available now direct from Barracuda Studios.

Conclusion

You always know the quality will be second to none with any Barracuda Studios release, and their new Tempest radiator upgrade is no exception. It's simple enough to suitable as a first resin set for modellers new to using the material, while experienced builders should find it a breeze to install.

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