The Roden 1:32 DH 2 has been warmly received by the WWI modelling community but some aspects of the kit could really do with an upgrade. The hardest parts for modellers to remedy are the seat and the propellor. These two replacement parts are produced by master caster Brian Fawcett and marketed currently by Pheon Models.

Now you could weave your own wicker seat out of wire and monofilament but its not easy to do (I know, I am working on a third one now for Wingnut's Bristol F2B). This resin wicker seat is a much simpler solution and has a very realistic wicker representation. The review sample had no imperfections at all. It comes with an integral cushion, suitably creased and featuring some largish buttons which should paint up very nicely. The seat is a prominent item inside the open DH2 'office' and with careful painting will be a stand-out feature. It may also prove suitable for other aircraft types - modellers should check their references.

There is also a replacement four-bladed propellor which corrects the odd cylindrical hub of the kit part. Again, this part would prove relatively difficult for modellers to fix themselves - I know many modellers carve their own two bladed propellors but I reckon scratch building a four bladed prop would be a big ask. The resin part comes inside a circular sprue to keep it safe. It does not include the overscale rivets featured on the Roden part which are better represented by paint. The propellors on WWI aircraft are a prominent feature so the resin replacement is a worthwhile enhancement.

Both parts came well packed with foam and bubble wrap inside light card boxes.

These two replacement parts are available as seperate items, £6.00 each plus £2.50 post & packing to UK & European destinations and £2.80 to the rest of the world. Payment is by Paypal. Available directly from Pheon Models by email: [email protected]